GE GSS23HSHECSS Ice Bucket Auger WR29X43990 — What This Part Fixes and How to Replace It
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
Brief explanation: The WR29X43990 is the plastic auger inside the freezer ice bucket that pushes ice from the bucket into the dispenser chute when you activate the ice dispenser. When the auger is cracked, broken, or jammed with ice it won't move ice properly — symptoms include no ice dispensed, motor humming, loud grinding, or large chunks/jammed ice. Step-by-step diagnostic and repair steps: 1. Reproduce the symptom: press the dispenser lever (or use the dispenser control) and listen. If you hear the motor hum or click but no ice comes out, the auger or drive coupling is likely the problem. If you hear grinding or scraping, the auger may be damaged or rubbing frozen buildup. 2. Remove the ice bucket: open the freezer door, lift the ice bucket slightly and pull it straight out. Set it on a towel or tray to catch loose ice. 3. Inspect visually: look for broken or missing auger fins (flighting), cracks in the plastic shaft, or large ice chunks packed around the auger. Also check for foreign objects (ice packs, plastic) that could jam it. 4. Check manual rotation: with the bucket out, try to rotate the auger manually. If it rotates freely and is intact, the problem might be the motor/coupling. If it’s seized, jagged, or you can see broken pieces, the auger needs replacement. 5. Defrost/clear jams: if the auger is simply frozen in place, let the ice melt naturally, or pour a small amount of warm (not boiling) water around the jam to free it. Dry completely before testing. 6. Replace the auger (if faulty): a. Unplug the refrigerator or shut off power at the breaker. (Safety first.) b. Remove the ice bucket and set it upside down on a towel so you can access the auger from the bottom if needed. c. Disconnect any visible wiring harness that connects the ice bucket motor (if your model has a harness attached to the bucket). Note location of any retaining clips or screws holding the auger to its shaft. d. Remove the retaining clip/bolt or release tab that secures the auger to the drive shaft. Carefully pull the auger straight off the shaft — you may need to rotate slightly while pulling. e. Install the new WR29X43990 auger: slide it onto the shaft in the same orientation, align any keyways, and reinstall the retaining clip/bolt or tab. f. Reconnect wiring harness (if disconnected), return the bucket to the freezer, restore power, and test the dispenser. 7. Test the dispenser: press the dispenser actuator and confirm ice dispenses smoothly without unusual noise. Safety note: Always disconnect power before working on the appliance to avoid electrical shock. Use gloves when handling broken plastic and protect the freezer interior and floor from water if you defrost or use warm water.
Common Symptoms
No ice dispensed, motor hum but no movement, loud grinding or scraping from dispenser, ice comes out in clumps or not at all, visible cracked or missing auger fins.
Common Causes
- Plastic auger flighting cracked or broken (wear or heavy impact)
- Ice jam or compacted ice around the auger
- Worn drive coupling or motor (causing motor spin but auger not engaged)
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
If the dispenser motor runs (you hear it) but the auger doesn’t turn, remove the bucket and try rotating the auger by hand — if the auger is cracked or the flighting is missing, you’ll feel the defect immediately and should replace WR29X43990.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace the WR29X43990 auger myself?
Yes — most homeowners can replace the auger themselves. It’s a medium-easy job: unplug the fridge, remove the ice bucket, detach any retaining clip or screw, pull the old auger off the drive shaft, and slide the new WR29X43990 on. Allow 20–45 minutes. If you’re uncomfortable with removing wiring or clips, consider a technician.
How do I know if I need the auger or the motor/coupling?
If you hear the motor running but the auger doesn’t rotate, first remove the bucket and try to rotate the auger by hand. If it’s visibly damaged or won’t rotate because plastic is broken, replace the auger. If the auger is intact but spins loosely on the shaft or the motor runs without resistance, the drive coupling or motor is likely faulty and should be checked next.
Related How-To Videos
Real DIY Repair Stories
Be the first to share your repair story!
Share Your Repair Story
Your experience helps other homeowners fix their appliances. Tell us how it went!
Can't Fix It Yourself? Find a Local Technician
It's perfectly okay to call a professional. Some repairs require specialized tools, deep teardowns, or dealing with complex systems that are better left to the pros.
Find the Right Part for Your Appliance
Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at ProsourceParts.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.
Your Free Parts Videos
Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to ProsourceParts.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.