Loud Grinding During Agitation From My Atlantis Washer

The Agitator

• The agitator attaches to the wash tub with a bolt. This holds the agitator in place as the wash tub moves back and forth. Some models, such as the Atlantis, have an agitator with a small gear and a seal attached to the bottom. A belt turns the gear of the agitator, allowing it to move in a different direction from the tub. A faulty gear and seal may cause a grinding sound.

Removing the Agitator

• To access the gear and the seal, you need to remove the agitator from the washing machine. Pull up on the soap dispenser on top of the agitator to remove it. Loosen the nut at the top of the agitator using a socket wrench. Pull up on the agitator to remove it from the machine. Turn the agitator over and inspect the gear and seal. Replace them if they are worn or broken.

Loose Items

• Loose items such as change, pens or other items commonly left in the pockets of your clothes may get stuck underneath the agitator. The item will scrape against the metal tub of the washer as the agitator moves back and forth. You may be able to lift gently on the agitator to remove the item. Otherwise, you'll need to remove the agitator entirely.

Motor Problems

• If the seal and gear at the bottom of the agitator are fine and there isn't anything causing a grinding underneath the agitator, you may have a problem with the motor. Pull the washer out from the wall and listen near the bottom of the machine. A loud grinding towards the base means your motor is broken. You will have to weigh the cost of a new motor versus purchasing a new machine.