Kenmore Elite Washer - Top Panel Removal

[joefuss1984]

I am visiting my parents and their washer has developed a small leak in the back around the water inlet valve. I need to remove the top panel to get the cabinet off and for the life of me, I cannot figure out how this style panel comes off. Online I saw someone use a putty knife under each side but that is not seeming to line up with parts diagrams and what I see on the machine. Included a pic of a machine like theirs. Thanks for the help.

 

[Ultramatic]

 

 

I had that same washer. It's very simple to remove. While not the same model, the video shows the same process in order to remove the control panel. Good luck.

 

 

[DADoES]

 
This is a direct-drive machine.  The top panel does not lift open like a old-style belt-drive.

If the top panel needs to come off the cabinet assembly, the cabinet assembly is removed first, then the screws that anchor the top to the cabinet can be accessed from beneath.

The console anchor screws are in several possible locations.  1) Exposed at the front lower corners.  2) At the front corners but hidden under trim that snaps off (a Kenmore method).  3) At the lower back corners of the console endcaps.

Or 4-5, there are no screws and the console is anchored via spring clips that can be released by slipping a putty knife under the console.

Release the console, pull it slightly forward and rotate upwards.  Disconnect the lid switch harness from the plug on the top panel under the console.  Remove the spring clips that anchor the outer cabinet to the rear panel.  Open the lid and tilt the outer cabinet (top/front/sides as an assembly) forward and off the machine base.

 

[joefuss1984]

@ultramatic, thanks for posting the video. That is what I was trying to do, but I couldn't get it release and was afraid I was going to break something. I'll be back down in a couple of weeks and will try again then. The leak is not bad, just need to determine for sure where its coming from and get parts ordered.

Stay tuned....

 

[repairguy]

More than likely the plastic tube that connects the inlet valve to the vacuum break that fills the tub has developed a pinhole as is common on these machines.

 

[joefuss1984]

Got it!

I just got back to my parents for Christmas and this time using the putty knife had no problem getting the top panel off. I guess I just needed "the courage of my convictions" as Julia Child once said. LOL Thanks all for the assistance.