Agitator doesnt start

Most probable cause would be the start capacitor. Most modern machines would not start if the lid is not properly closed. It detects thru the lid switch.

It almost sounds like the lid switch is working backwards but I have never seen that happen on a GE. The switch either works or goes bad. One other possibility is a defective water level switch. Thats also called a pressure switch sometimes.

The water level switch may be going bad. As the water level rises to the proper level, it switches a set of contacts inside to stop the water fill and cause the machine to start agitation. Make sure machine is empty before you replace the water level switch---it works off of air pressure from a small hose attached to it.

Hi and welcome to FixYa, I am Kelly.
This is usually caused by a failed lid switch that is item 9 this link:
http://www.appliancepartspros.com/partsearch/model.aspx?model_id=256996

First off put the washer in the spin cycle. With the lid closed see if the washer will spin. No spin also = bad lid switch. If the washer spins but will not agitate then the problem is most likely the water level pressure switch or associated air tubing. (any air leaks and it will not stop filling)
Water level switch is item 12 here:
http://www.appliancepartspros.com/partsearch/model.aspx?model_id=256996&diagram_id=28209075#d28209075
We test these with NO WATER in the machine and after connecting an external hose with the lid closed with power on by orally passing air into the small air hose we connected. It will click and the washer must agitate. If it clicks and does not agitate... again it points to the lid switch. Disconnecting this water level switch hose with ater in the maching and then re-connecting the hose WILL result in the machine overflowing. Tub MUST be empty.

You check the lid switch as you just open or close the lid. You should hear an audible CLICK as the lid is barely off of its closed position and again as the lid is almost closed. NO CLICK = bad door switch.

These are the 2 most common reasons that will correct the symptom your experiencing more than 90 percent of the time. There is a remote possibility that there is a problem with the motor / motor clutch. Motor clutch problems are noted by odd noises when motor is running and it will not spin or agitate. If the motor will spin the machine but will not agitate the machine it can be a motor winding.

Thanks for choosing FixYa,
Kelly

The most likely failure is the water level pressure switch or a failed lid switch. If the washer will drain and spin then it's not a failed lid switch. If it will not drain and spin the likely failure is the lid switch.

The water level switch (pressure switch) has 3 wires attached to it, V (violet), P (Pink) and a T (tan) wire. When the tub is empty of water, contact V&P are closed to allow the tub to fill with water. Once the water level reaches the desired setting, contact V&P opens and then contact V&T closes to start the motor agitating. So, with this said if you were to unplug the washer and remove the wires from the water level pressure switch and test to see if terminals V&T is closing by using an ohm meter would indicate if the contact is closed or not.

its suppose to start with lid down,the draining may be a faulty water level switch so this needs replaced.

Please be carful as running the agitator without enough water will overheat and kick out the motor, however it should be ok when it resets itself.
Yes, the machine should stop agitating when you lift the lid so this too is part of the problem.
After looking at the print I can only suggest that the cam contacts in the timer ( contacts 12 and 14) that start the motor are burned and stuck together.
Quentin

same problem

Hello aksward,
Welcome to Fixya.

Here are some suggestions for any Kenmore washers

Let me know how it goes. I'm still thinking and searching my repair manuals!
Huuum
Please remember to leave a rating!

KENMORE ELITE TOP LOAD

Washer stops, won't fill, rinse or agitate


• Check the following:
Is the power cord plugged into a grounded 3 prong outlet?
Is the indicator on the Cycle Control knob properly lined up
with a cycle? Turn the Cycle Control knob to the right slightly
and pull to start.
Are the water inlet valve screens clogged?
Are both the hot and cold water faucets turned on?
Is the water inlet hose kinked?
• Does the water level seem too low, or does the washer
appear to not fill completely? The top of the agitator is
much higher than the highest water level. This is normal and
necessary for clothes to move freely.
• Has a fuse blown or is the circuit breaker open? If problem
continues, call an electrician.
• Are you using an extension cord? Do not use an extension
cord.
• Is the washer in a normal pause in the cycle? The washer
pauses for about 2 minutes during certain cycles. Allow the
cycle to continue. Some cycles feature periods of agitation
and soak.
• Is the washer overloaded? Wash smaller loads.
• Is the lid open? The lid must be closed during operation.
Washer will not agitate or spin with the lid open.

it sounds as if your lid switch is out of position. in the past depending on the model i have taped a penny or two to the top of the switch so the plunger makes contact