What Happens When a Washer Coupling Breaks?

Couplings

• Couplings are safety devices placed in direct drive washing machines, especially those manufactured by Sears and Whirlpool. They help to insulate the motor and transmission from excessive vibration and prolong the life of each. They are made up of a transmission coupler, rubber isolator and motor coupler. If one part of this system fails, it is best to replace all three.

Unusual Sounds

• The first sign that a coupling may be failing is an unusual sound coming from the machine when it attempts to spin and agitate. This sound can be a buzzing or a banging noise, but it indicates that it is slipping during operation. Unusual noises that only occur during the spin cycle are more likely caused by loose tub nuts or drive blocks.

Black Debris

• Black debris or broken plastic appearing below and behind the machine is a sure sign of a coupling failure. It is designed to fail in order to protect the motor and transmission, so it is made of relatively weak materials. It may break suddenly due to a weakness developed over years of reversing directions as the machine agitates or it may slowly grind until it fails to grip well.

Failure to Agitate

• Another good indicator is the washing machine going through its cycles normally, but failing to spin and agitate. Sometimes machines don't drain correctly. In other cases, the tub spins, but the movement is weak or only in one direction. Without a functional coupling, the motor and transmission cannot work together to turn the tub. Motor and transmission problems can cause this same symptom, but the coupling is more likely to fail.