Kenmore Washer, Loose Timer Knob

There are a few things that could be causing your washer to fill only and not agitate or spin. The most likely culprit is the timer knob. If the timer knob is frozen and buzzing, it's probably not making good contact with the switch underneath it. Replacing the timer knob should fix the problem.
Another possibility is that the washing machine motor is damaged. If there's a burning smell coming from the washing machine, this is probably what's causing it. You'll need to replace the motor if this is the case.
Finally, it's possible that there's something wrong with the washing machine pump. If the pump isn't working properly, it can cause the washer to fill only and not agitate or spin. You'll need to replace the pump if this is the case.

The timer on a washing Kenmore washing machine is the brains of the unit. The timer controls how long the clothes are to be washed, rinsed, spun and dried. The timer is located behind the timer knob in the main control panel. If the timer fails, it can be replaced with just a few hand tools.
1 Unplug the washing machine's cord from the electrical outlet.
2 Remove the two screws securing the main-panel end caps with a Phillips-head screwdriver. Lift the main panel up and rotate it backward so the inside of the panel is exposed. If your model does not have end caps, slide a putty knife between the main panel and the washing machine's top, then pry up to free the panel from its retaining clips.
3 Turn the knob by hand from one side while looking at the back of the timer from the other side. You should see the timer knob's shaft turning. Grasp the black plastic locking tab in the center of the timer knob's shaft with a pair of needle-nose pliers and pull it out. You should feel a click.
4 Pull the timer knob off of its shaft. You may need to hold the locking tab with the pliers as you do this. Remove the trim plate from under the knob.
5 Unplug the wiring connector from the back of the timer. Remove the screws securing the timer to the main panel with a nut driver and remove the timer.
6 Install the new timer into the panel and secure it with the screws, using a nut driver. Install the timer's trim plate and wire connector.
7 Install the knob onto the timer's shaft. Make sure the locking tab is still pulled out before installing the knob. Once the knob is pushed onto the shaft, hold the knob with one hand while pushing the locking tab in from the other side. You should feel it click into position.
8 Reinstall the main panel and end caps, if applicable. Plug in the electrical cord and run the washer on various wash and rinse cycles to test that the timer is working.

Things You Will Need

• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Putty knife
• Nut driver
• Needle-nose pliers
• Timer

Warning

• Pulling or installing the timer knob without first pulling the locking tab can break the tab, the shaft or the knob.

Could be one of two things. The knob or the timer. Both knobs and the timer through sears parts direct are under 100 probably with shipping. If the knob that you pull out and push in does not feel sloppy when you turn it then i would guess timer is faulty.

remove the timer from the cabinet housing....you will soon find out.

This assumes that you have a basic Kenmore / Whirlpool top load, direct drive, neutral drain (it doesn't spin until the pump removes most of the water) machine.

First, see the Sears parts site for your washer:
http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/index.action

Enter your model number (###.########) and you'll see a list of major sub-components with diagrams and parts.

See the following for how to release the console:

http://www.american-appliance.com/catalog/newsdesk_info.php?newsPath=16&newsdesk_id=131&osCsid=d09053515715195798276a5664b79cf0

Also see the Whirlpool / Kenmore Service Manual for top load, direct drive washers:

https://secured.whirlpool.com/Service/SrvTechAdm.nsf/2cd44500d572193285256a45004fd9d6/f7e2147fa98b28cf85257122007475cb/$FILE/L-55.pdf


If this is a basic top load, direct drive washer, these units may have one of two different timers. (See the Whirlpool PDF).

On models with a metal timer, you have to release the console, pull it forward and tilt it back in order to get to the back of the timer.

The knob screws onto a medal shaft that goes through the timer.

Usually, trying to un-screw the knob won't work by itself since the shaft will also turn.

I found that if you hold the back of the shaft with a thin needle-nosed pliers, you can unscrew the knob.

Then you simply have to disconnect the timer.

The Whirlpool PDF also has troubleshooting and testing procedures for the timer.

Yes, most likely but to be sure you can check voltage at the timer assembly 2 small black wires coming out of the timer.....

I have had this happen on a Kenmore in the past, and it was the motor coupling. It is a plastic part, and if it cracks your washer will not spin anymore. If you have the repair parts list, or can find it online, you will find the part I am referring to. Good luck.

it's possible go to www.repairclinic.com and enter the numbers you have posted and it will show you what they are. I have the same problem. What I did was not pretty but it works for now. I broke a piece off of your part#387997 and simply turn my dial that way and then pull the center out to start the wash. Considering a new timer is close to $100+ and it works fine this way , well you know...

Something in the timer came apart. Timer needs replaced. When in good working order, the timer should ONLY ever be turned clockwise..Reversing this could break it.

Check your pump and drain for a blockage.
You also could have a timer connection issue. Remove the timer wire connectors and reattach them.The timer simply has a quick connection block, sometimes they get a little loose and all you gotta do is push it all the way back in. Check for a loose lid hinge and safety switch also.