GE Top Load Filter Flo washer has squeaky noise during agitation

[kpworth]

My 1992 GE Top Load Filter Flo Washer Model WWA8620 has recently started to make a squeaky noise during the agitation. This only occurs after the machine is filled with water and begins the agitation. The noise does not occur again after it ran smoothly. I have switched to use Gentle but it still have this sound.

There is no major issue with the machine; it still wash/agitate/spin/drain/properly; it just have noise issue. Attached is a sound file (starts at 0.22s - the beginning is sound of the washer being filled with water)

Anyone know what is the issue and whether this will be a major repair? I don't even know if there are parts for this machine available and whether it is better to get a new machine.

 

[repairguy]

Watch the agitator once it starts with a load in the machine and see if it looks like it is working properly and not slipping . It sounds to me like the agitator coupling has come apart. The ease of replacing the coupling will depend on how hard it is to get agitator off. The GE part number is WH1X2641 and it appears to be no longer available but there is plenty of new old stock out there. I recommend an OEM replacement part as I do not believe the knock offs are near the quality.

 

[bradfordwhite]

Have you tried lifting out the agitator and looking underneath it? It could be there is something lodged between the agitator and the shaft. It could just be a build up of lint or a sock.

Trying to determine where the squeak is coming from will help to pin point what it is.

Pulling the machine out and removing the back and getting your ear down to the level of where the motor is will hopefully help locate if it's coming from under the washer. Otherwise, operating the washer during the wash phase with the lid open one can listen and see if it's coming from within the tub.

Good luck with this. I hope it helps.