How to Replace the Tub Bearing on a Maytag Legacy

Unplug the washing machine from its power source to prevent electric shock while replacing the tub bearing. Shut off the water supply to the machine by rotating the hot and cold water supply valves to the "Off/Closed" position; locate these valves on the wall behind the machine. Disconnect the drain hose and water supply lines from their ports on the rear panel.

Open the lid. Press down on the fabric softener dispenser and use a small flat-head screwdriver to lift the retaining tabs around the perimeter. Separate the dispenser from the top of the agitator.

Remove the agitator cap by sliding the small flat-head screwdriver under the edge and lifting. Hold the base of the agitator assembly and remove the bolt securing it to the washing machine tub, using a 7/16-inch socket wrench. Lift the assembly from the tub and set it on a padded surface.

Remove the plastic cover from around the top of the washing tub. Reach into the tub and pry the "O" ring off of the agitator shaft, using the small flat-head screwdriver. Use a seal nut removal tool to take off the shaft seal nut. Turn the hub nut counterclockwise, using a spanner wrench, and remove it from the shaft.

Cover the floor in front of the washing machine with an old towel or tarp. Have someone help you tip the machine back onto its rear panel. Be extremely careful; the appliance is very heavy.

Remove the screws on the lower front service access panel. Use a spring removal tool to unhook the springs from the inside of the bottom panel. Take out the hex-head mounting screws around the panel edges. Remove the panel to access the pump and motor assemblies.

Find the pump attached to the top of the motor assembly. Lift the metal clips holding the pump to the motor; rock the pump back and forth until you can remove it from the motor shaft. Do not remove the two hoses connected to the pump.

Pull the plastic connectors to disconnect the wiring from the motor harness. Follow the wires to the retaining clip on the base of the motor. Spread the retaining clip, using a flat-head screwdriver, and remove the wires.

Remove the 1/2-inch bolts mounting the gear case to the base of the washing machine, using a socket wrench. Place an old towel on the floor near the appliance. Pull the motor assembly out of the cabinet and set it on the towel.

Find the tub bearing on the shaft at the base of the motor. Look for a disc-shaped component. Pull the old tub bearing off the motor shaft and discard it. Thread the new tub bearing onto the shaft and push it into place against the base of the motor.