My Inner Basket on My Whirlpool Duet Front Loader Is Loose

Level

• Like most other appliances, the Whirlpool Duet is designed for a level surface. If the washer is not level, this can sometimes cause the inner basket to feel loose. This is because the center of gravity is in a spot that is not optimal and the basket is pushed forward on its bearings slightly. This condition can cause unnecessary wear on bearings and other parts of the washer. Leveling the unit will help solve this problem.

Glide Bearings

• As the basket rotates inside the washer, it glides on small bearings that keep the basket rotating on a specific track and prevent the basket from jamming during a cycle. Over time, the wear on the glide bearings can cause them to lose their ability to flow smoothly around the track. If left untreated, this condition can lead to the washer screeching as it turns and eventually to a full stop of the basket. In this instance, replace the bearings as soon as possible before further damage is caused to the washer.

Agitator

• The agitator causes and regulates the movement and rotation of the inner basket. While rare, it is possible for the basket to become unfastened and break away from the agitator. If this happens, the basket will not move at all and will sit loosely in the machine. While bearings can be replaced, the agitator is the central unit of the washer machine. If the agitator apparatus is damaged or broken, the cost for repair or replacement may outweigh the cost of a new machine. Consult a service professional for repair or replacement options.

Motor Coupler

• While older model washers use drive belts as a power-delivery system for the washer, the Whirlpool Duet uses a motor coupler. This is a series of disks, called tri-stars, which interlock and provide force to the agitator. As with other parts in the washer, these disks can wear over time and eventually cause weakness in agitation and looseness in the spin of the basket. Replacing the motor coupler will stop this problem.