Agitator Cam Kit — Fix a Washer That Won't Agitate or Has a Slipping Agitator
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Understanding the Problem
What the agitator cam kit is and why it matters: The agitator cam kit (also called the agitator directional cam or agitator dogs/cam assembly on some models) is the plastic gearing that allows the agitator to catch and turn clothes in one direction while slipping in the other. When it fails you’ll get a slipping agitator, no agitation, or a washer that only vibrates but doesn't move clothes properly. Step-by-step diagnostic and repair instructions: 1) Confirm the symptom: With an empty tub and the washer set to an agitation cycle, lift the fabric softener dispenser (if present) and manually try to turn the agitator. If it spins freely with little resistance or turns but the shaft doesn't drive the lower agitator section, the cam/dogs are likely worn. 2) Safety first: Unplug the washer (or switch off power at the breaker). You generally don't need to turn off water to replace the cam, but cutting power prevents accidental starts. 3) Access the agitator: a. Remove the fabric softener dispenser or cap on top of the agitator (if present). Some caps pry out with a flat screwdriver. b. Remove the agitator retaining bolt (usually a 3/8" or 7/16" socket). On some models the bolt head is under a cap; remove the cap and use the correct socket. c. Some two-piece agitators require pulling up the top cone first (may need a putty knife to release the clip). Pull straight up on the agitator to remove it. If it’s stuck, use a block of wood and a mallet to bump it up gently. 4) Inspect the parts: a. Check the splines on the metal drive shaft for wear or damage. b. Inspect the cam kit: look for cracked plastic, worn teeth, broken directional dogs (small pawls), or shredded plastic. If the cam is loose or the dogs are missing/worn, it will slip. c. Check the underside of the agitator (upper and lower sections) for worn teeth. 5) Replace the cam kit: a. Remove the old cam assembly from the transmission shaft and from inside the agitator. Clean the shaft and the inside of the agitator of old grease and plastic debris. b. Grease the drive splines lightly with high-temperature appliance grease (do not over-pack). Slide the new cam kit into place ensuring orientation is correct (directional dogs point so they can catch during the drive stroke). c. Reassemble the agitator(s) on the shaft, insert and torque the retaining bolt snugly. Reinstall the fabric softener cap or dispenser. 6) Test the repair: Restore power and run a short agitation cycle. The agitator should now catch and move laundry normally without slipping or loud grinding. 7) Additional checks: If the new cam kit fails immediately or the agitator remains loose, re-check the drive shaft splines and the transmission input for severe damage — a damaged metal spline will grind through new plastic quickly and requires transmission service. Safety note: Always disconnect electrical power before working on the washer. Use proper hand protection when handling plastic fragments and grease. Keep small parts (bolts, washers) secure during disassembly.
Common Symptoms
Agitator spins freely or slips during the cycle, washer tumbles but doesn't agitate, loud grinding or rattling when trying to agitate, clothes not getting cleaned.
Common Causes
- Worn or broken cam/directional dogs inside the agitator cam kit
- Cracked or shredded plastic cam ring that can't engage the drive shaft
- Damaged metal drive shaft splines or transmission input that destroy new plastic cams
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at ProsourceParts.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
Before buying parts, remove the agitator and inspect the cam/dogs. If you can visibly see broken or missing dogs or cracked cam plastic, replacement is required — otherwise the problem may be a stripped drive spline on the transmission.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take and how much does it cost to replace the agitator cam kit?
A DIY replacement typically takes 30–60 minutes for someone comfortable with basic tools. Parts cost varies by model and seller but expect roughly $15–$60 for the cam kit. If the drive shaft or transmission splines are damaged, repair time and cost increase and may require a service call or transmission replacement.
Can I just replace the dogs instead of the whole cam kit?
Some models use separate 'agitator dogs' that can be replaced individually, but many modern kits come as a single cam assembly with integrated dogs. Replacing the entire cam kit is usually recommended because it ensures all mating surfaces are fresh and reduces the chance of next-failure; also individual dogs are small and can be difficult to install correctly.
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