Motor coupling on Kenmore Series 80 washing machine

Not going to go very far with this post, since there is a plethora of info out there about doing this job, but I will take the time to point out some issues, and point to resources.

This PDF is probably the best info I could point to, as everything else I found suggested turning the washing machine on it’s side/back, and doing the work from the bottom. But, removing the cowling from the machine was quick, easy, and make the whole job MUCH easier than tipping it over.

My main tips for all this are:

1. Sears Parts centers should all have this part in stock. It’s $18. It’s well worth it to pick one up and do the repair yourself using the above PDF as a guide
2. When the motor coupling breaks, you’ll often get a heck of a racket when it’s running. BUT! The pump to drain the water usually still runs (since it’s attached directly to the motor, and not the tub transmission). If I’d realized this, I could have saved myself a lot of work by using an aquarium pump to get the water out

All and all, it’s an easy fix. It took me less than 45 minutes to replace the part, and about 15 minutes to drive to and from Sears. So, 1 hour of work, and $18 in parts. Bet a repair man would have charged AT LEAST $100. And, you’ll probably teach yourself something about how the washing machine works in the process. =)