How to Replace the Wax Motor In a Kenmore Front Load Washer

Unplug the power cord to prevent electrical damage to yourself and the washer.

Open the door of the Kenmore front-load washer.

Find the metal ring holding the tub seal to the door opening. The ring wraps around the tub seal and is the same diameter as the door opening. Look around the ring until you find the retainer spring that tensions the ring.

Place the blade of a flat-head screwdriver under the tension spring. Pry the spring away from the door opening until you can grasp it with your hand. Work the ring loose around the door opening until it comes free.

Pry the tub seal off the door opening with your fingers. Work the seal loose and push it back into the washer tub to get it out of your way.

Remove the three Phillips-head screws securing the door switch assembly to the right side of the door opening. Pull the assembly out from behind the edge of the door. Disconnect the wiring harness from the back of the assembly.

Connect the wiring harness to a new switch assembly. Place the assembly behind the edge of the door and align the mounting holes. Insert the three Phillips-head screws through the front of the door, into the assembly. Tighten the screws securely.

Pull the seal out of the tub. Push the seal into place along the raised edge of the door opening. The seal has a molded groove that fits snugly over the raised edge.

Place the retainer ring around the tub seal. The ring fits into a depression directly behind the front edge of the tub seal. Close the washer door. Plug in the washer.