Kenmore Agitator Leak

Agitator

• The agitator found in many Kenmore washing machines is a direct-drive-style mechanism that is controlled by a basic motor that can go both forward and in reverse. The agitator itself is, in many cases, a dual mechanism that consists of an upper piece and a lower piece, both of which are connected to the same drive that is controlled by the motor. The agitator consists of a number of different interlocking pieces and sits directly in the center of the wash tub. If not secured properly, a leak could spring from the agitator itself, although this is unlikely unless you have had the machine serviced recently to replace the agitator dogs, or the internal parts of the agitator that cause the agitator to move.

Tub

• If the washing machine appears to be leaking from the agitator, you may also need to thoroughly check the wash tub itself for signs of decay. These are usually made of a coated metal that can rust and corrode over time, especially if the inside of the tub is nicked or scratched, allowing the water to get up under the protective coating. Check for signs of corrosion near the bottom of the agitator also. If you're comfortable removing and placing the agitator back on, you can also check underneath the bottom arm of the agitator to ensure that no leaks are present there.

Water Pump

• If you suspect an agitator leak, you may also need to check your Kenmore's water pump to ensure that the water is not originating from there. Kenmore water pumps are made of plastic and are a more likely source for a leak than the agitator or tub. The water pump on a Kenmore washer is often located just below the wash tub and can make it appear as if the agitator is leaking. To check or replace this, you will need to remove to the outer case of the washer, which can be done by removing the screws that hold it in place on the back side of the washer. The control board on the top of the washer has to be removed in this process also.

Hoses

• Your Kenmore's hoses are also susceptible to leaks, so you should always double-check to make sure that these are also in optimal condition. This includes the hoses on the back of the washing machine that connect to the water supply, but also those that connect to the water pump beneath the agitator. A poor connection or a bad hose can further mimic a leak from the wash tub and agitator portion of the washing machine.