how to remove older agitator

[AlfredReed]

I have an old Kenmore Heavy duty Series 70 washer with two current problems that started both at the same time: 1) the agitator slows with barely a full load (used to be able to wash a substantial load) 2) when it spins there is a knocking sound as if something wooden is bouncing around when it spins. The agitator is one of the old single tower kind with the cap that screws off to reveal a threaded post sticking up. It would require a major effort to move the washer out to find the serial number -- I am hoping someone will recognize the type of agitator by the above description.

These problems began together along with the appearance of a small screw in the tub as though from beneath the agitator. I figured the screw maybe came from a pants pocket originally but when the other problems occurred I am thinking either something more than the screw came from my pocket and is still wedged somewhere, OR, the screw came from somewhere in the washer.

I tried to remove the agitator but after unscrewing the cap nothing else moved even with gentle prying up from underneath. I think if I could get the agitator off it would lead to a better understanding of it all.

If anyone is familiar with these (I'm sure these old agitators are common if they came with Kenmore)I would like to get advice about how to remove the agitator and anything else that could be helpful. If absolutely necessary I could take a weekend to get the serial number and/or shoot a photo of the agitator. Tahnks,

AlfredReed

 

[pdub]

I'm not a Kenmore expert although I do have 2 of them. Both of them have agitators that lift off the post once the cap is removed. Yours could be stuck just due to the fact that is has never been removed.

I would fill the tub with hot water and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Then drain the water and try pulling up on it. If it still won't budge you could try giving it a few hits on the side with something like a rubber mallet, being careful not to hit the fins.

Also be careful when pulling up on the agitator that it doen't suddenly come loose and hit you in the face!

Good Luck - Patrick

 

[turquoisedude]

And if that still doesn't work, the 'hot turban treatment' may help... I had to do this get the agitator off my 65 Lady K:

- wrap the top of the agitator with a large towel and pour a pan of very hot water on it; be sure to soak the towel thoroughly

- Let the towel sit for a few minutes; remove it carefully (use tongs if necessary because it still could be quite hot) and try lifting off the agietator.

It may take a couple of 'treatments' but this should loosen the agitator.

I hope this helps!

 

[washdaddy]

If you can

post some pics of the machine so we know which model you have and can better assist you with your problem.

 

[whirlcool]

the 'hot turban treatment' may help.

otherwise known as the Turban of Terror!