My washer does not have a fabric softener dispenser I use a downy ball, I dislike very much. Does not empty all out or partial and gets on the clothes. Is there any other way of adding softener.

SOURCE: automatic fabric softener dispensor not emptying

The detergent dispenser is located above the detergent drawer. A water pipe is connected to it and water entrance and distributed to drawer's cells (following the programmed cycle)by a lever's movement (part of the dispenser). The lever movement is controlled by two solenoids that received their power from the timer. By opening upper machine's cover you will have an access to the dispenser. Disconnect the power cable from the machine before moving to next test !!!! Look first that they are not any disconnected wires. Move manually dispenser's lever and see if water running to all cells (depend on your movement). In case it doesn't work properly remove the unit from the machine and try to clean it (I hope it will help, otherwise you should replace the unit). In case it works properly (manually) - you should test by a multi-tester solenoid's resistance. the one that doesn't have a resistance measurement should be replaced. Good luck !!

SOURCE: Problems with fabric softener

check the water solenoid for open circuit, this is the water valve that supplies water to the compartment

SOURCE: Problems with fabric softener

you either have low cold water pressure being caused by the screens on both ends of the cold waterline being clogged by sediment or one of the solinoids for the water inlet is bad. try removing cold water hose and cleaning both screens if that doesnt help youll need a solinoid

SOURCE: fabric softener dispenser won't drain the fabric softener.

It appears your softener tray door solenoid has failed in this instance... or it may be gummed up.

For replacement parts - head on over to PartSelect.com or RepairClinic.com and enter in your full model number for a full parts listing.
I recommend both sites because ...


FixYa has no affiliation with either site - I have been using and recommending them for years - trouble free.

PartSelect has a great schematic database for locating the part on your unit and great "testimonials" for each part that often times includes HOW-TO information.
RepairClinic has pictures of each part they sell and also a great how-to and troubleshooting for basic repairs.


If your unit has never been serviced - there should still be an original service manual enclosed in plastic taped to the inside of the shell.
In the service manual are Error codes, maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting steps you can follow.


Anything too complicated or beyond your scope should be handled by a professional.

If you think you want to tackle the repair - and have gotten stuck on a step - reply to your question and I will be glad to help you out.




Thanks for using FixYa - a 4 THUMBS rating is appreciated for answering your FREE question

Richard Roth

• 9472 Answers
• Posted on Jan 21, 2011

SOURCE: The fabric softener (downy) won't dispense. It

You will also need to clean the the dispenser hose that goes into the machine.