My Whirlpool Washer Will not Spin & it has a Sewer Odor

Belt Drive or Direct Drive

• The cause of the spin function not working depends on whether your machine has a belt drive or direct drive. The direct drive washer's cabinet is usually a couple of inches narrower (27 inches or less) than that of the belted washer design, which is 29 inches wide. The back panel of the direct-drive washer covers the entire back of the washer from top to bottom and has no access panels. The belt-driven washer has a small access panel near the bottom, and the control console has a separate back panel.

Belt-Drive Machines

• Belt-drive machines are generally the older models. In this type of washer, the motor is connected to the spin drum and agitator by a belt and pulley system. If the spin drum is not spinning at all, you most likely need to replace the drive belt. This is a task easily accomplished by the intermediate DIY enthusiast. It will require you to remove the pump coupling and then loosen the motor mounting nuts in order to release the tension on the belt and pry the belt use. As you do this, turn the transmission pulley under the tub. Release the belt from the clutch pulley. Then you can pull it out of the machine. To insert the new belt, first fit the belt around the transmission pulley and then around the clutch pulley. You can then follow the drive belt removal steps in reverse to complete the installation.

Direct Drive Machines

• These machines are usually the newer models. The motor is connected directly to the agitator and spin drum via bearings and gears. A drum that does not spin at all may need a repair or replacement of the transmission. To access the transmission, you will have to remove the agitator, spin drum and tub. You will then disconnect and remove the pump and motor; lay the washer on its side to expose the transmission on the bottom. The transmission is held in place by mounting bolts that can be removed with a socket wrench. Once you pull the transmission and drive shaft out, you need to remove the nuts attaching the motor mounting plate. Replacing the direct-drive transmission is a task that can be done by an experienced DIY-er. However, you should have the transmission evaluated by a professional before deciding to repair rather than replace the transmission. It is usually wiser and cheaper to replace the transmission altogether.

Sewer Smell Fixes

• Once the washing machine's spin cycle is once again operational, you now need to treat the sources of the smell. Set your machine to the largest load setting and the water selector to "HOT." Add a detergent containing bleach and run a complete cycle without any laundry. This will break up any grease deposits and soap scum left behind by the standing water as well as kill most of the bacteria and mold accumulated in the machine tub. Once the cycle is completed, leave the washer open to dry out completely. If the smell does not lessen after two attempts using this method, try pouring white vinegar into the soap or bleach dispenser and run a cycle on the hottest setting.