How to Fix the Stem Seal of a Maytag Washer

Move the washer away from the wall to create a workspace then unplug the machine from its power source. Disconnect the drain hose from the back of the washer -- there may be some standing water in the line so have some towels handy to sop it up -- then remove the front panel by pulling it gently up and outward. Look underneath the lip on the right and left underside of the top of the washer to locate a holding screw at each corner. Remove each screw with an electric screwdriver.

Tape the door closed with a strip of packing tape to prevent it from swinging out and possibly hitting you. Lift up on the lip of the unscrewed top and pop it off to expose the wash drum ring, which is secured in place by eight to 10 hand-sized plastic tabs, depending on your model. Push outward on each tab, as you lift up, to remove the ring. Reach down inside the drum, unscrew the two holding screws on the agitator and remove it.

Loosen and remove the spanner nut with a spanner nut wrench. This will loosen the spin basin, which can be removed and is fairly heavy. Use a T20 screwdriver to remove each holding screw on the nut assembly underneath the spanner nut -- this is the stem seal. Once the screws are out, use the spanner wrench to loosen and remove the stem. You now have two options: cleaning the stem or replacing it outright.

Rub any visibly rusted spots on the stem with fine steel wool if you’re planning on reusing the stem if it’s in good condition. Once done or if you’re replacing the stem with a brand new one, simply reverse the removal steps after inserting the stem back into place and securing the holding screws.