Introduction
Use this guide if your Whirlpool-built top-load washer shakes, walks, or bangs during spin. Worn suspension rods let the tub move too freely and throw the basket off balance. Replacing the rods restores stability and helps protect the drive system. These instructions apply to many Whirlpool-built top-load washers that use rod kit W10189077 / W10820048, including Whirlpool, Roper, Amana, Maytag Bravos, and Cabrio models.
What you need
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Step 1 Check the suspension rods
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Press firmly down on the agitator or wash plate, then release it to check how the tub rebounds.
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Rock the tub side to side and check for continued movement.
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Step 3 Gather the rod kit and tools
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Acquire a W10189077 or W10820048 suspension rod replacement kit.
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Have a 6-in-1 screwdriver with a 1⁄4-inch nut driver tip for the rear screws.
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Put on one rubber-coated glove to grip oily suspension rods.
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Keep masking tape to secure the lid and a putty knife for clip-style tops if your model requires it.
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Step 4 Open screw-mounted tops
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Unscrew the two hinge screws at the back corners and the screw on the power-cord cover.
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Standing at the front, pull the top toward you about two inches, lift up, then push it back to free it from its bracket.
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Step 5 Open clip-mounted tops
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Slide a putty knife under the front edge and press the two clips to unlock the top.
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Lift the top once both clips release.
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Step 6 Tape the lid closed
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Tape the lid to the washer top so it cannot swing when the top is leaned back.
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Step 7 Release the first rod
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Reach inside the cabinet, pull the rod upward with your gloved hand, and rotate its plastic cradle 90 degrees.
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Lower the freed rod gently into the tub opening.
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Step 8 Remove the rod from underneath
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From below, guide the rod through both cabinet holes and wiggle the shepherd’s hook free.
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Step 9 Install the new rod
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Feed the new rod up through the two cabinet holes and rest its bottom spring on the chassis lip.
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Return the washer upright while keeping the rod seated.
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Step 10 Hook the rod into the new cup
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Replace the old plastic cup with the new one supplied in the kit.
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Step 11 Replace the remaining rods
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Repeat the unhook, tilt, remove, install, and hook steps for each of the other suspension rods.
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Step 14 Test the repair
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Reinstall the top panel and any remaining screws before returning the washer to service.
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Press down on the agitator again; the tub should return to center with no rebound and minimal side play.
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Run a spin cycle with clothes to confirm the bouncing and noise are gone.
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Repair didn't go as planned? Ask our Answers community for help.