How to Change the Rubber in a Whirlpool Duet Washer

Unplug the washing machine and turn off the water supply via the shut-off valves where the supply lines meet the plumbing. Remove the three T-20 torx-head screws at the top of the rear panel, slide the top panel roughly an inch in the direction of the back of the appliance to detach the locking tabs. Lift the top panel off the washer and place it aside.

Remove the cables running to the back of the control panel from the central control unit located above the drum and pass the wires through the plastic clips. Pull the detergent dispenser out as far as it will go, press down the release tab in the back left corner and remove it from the washer completely.

Remove the pair of recessed screws on the front of the washer's control panel: one is located behind where the detergent drawer used to sit, the other is below the cycle selector dial. Lift the top edge of the control panel and release the plastic clip on the right rear side to remove it from the washer.

Take out the screws at the very bottom of the front of the washer, below the bottom panel, and set them aside. Pull the lower panel down to the floor to remove it. Close the washer and remove the four screws, two above and two below the door. Pull the frame around the door off the washer.

Look around the edge of the rubber seal until you find the retaining clamp. The clamp is attached to a metal loop and has a screw tightened into the top. Turn the clamp screw until the metal loop is loose and remove it from the washer. Pry off the damaged rubber seal and discard.

Stretch the replacement rubber seal into position making sure the three "weep holes," located inside rubber ring, are at the bottom of the opening. These holes are important for the operation of the washer. See Resources for tips on replacing the rubber seal.

Place the metal loop and retaining clamp back in position over the rubber seal and tighten the screw. The rubber seal should now be held in place tightly. Place the trim from below the door back in place and replace its screws.

Screw the trim from around the door back into position and clip the control panel back in place. Replace the recessed screws below the cycle selector dial and behind the dispenser drawer. Once the screws are in place, slide the dispenser draw back into its slot.

Replace the cables at the back of the control panel and loop the wires through the plastic clip. Place the top panel on top of the washer and slide it toward the back of the controls to lock it into position. Replace the three screws at the top of the back panel, and reconnect the power and water supplies. You have changed the rubber seal successfully.