Kenmore Washer Drain Pump Replacement (79640512900) — What It Does & How to Replace It
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Understanding the Problem
What this part is and why it matters: The drain pump (part 79640512900) removes water from the wash tub during drain and spin cycles. When it fails, the washer won’t drain, may leak, hum, make grinding noises, or display drain-related error codes. Step-by-step diagnostic and repair steps: 1. Safety first: Unplug the washer and turn off the water supply. If you must work with water in the tub, have towels and a shallow pan ready to catch spills. 2. Confirm the symptom: Run a drain/spin cycle and watch/hear the pump. Typical signs of a bad pump include no water movement, loud clicking/grinding, a humming motor that doesn’t turn, leaks under the machine, or persistent drain error codes. 3. Check for simple blockages: Remove the pump access/filter (if equipped) or the lower front service panel and inspect the pump inlet and the drain hose for coins, socks, lint, or debris. Clear any obstructions and run a test drain. If cleared, replacement may not be necessary. 4. Verify power to the pump: With the washer unplugged, disconnect the pump wiring harness and inspect connectors for burn marks or corrosion. Set your multimeter to continuity/ohms and test the pump motor windings. A typical healthy pump shows a steady low resistance (varies by model); an open circuit indicates a failed motor. 5. Test pump operation under power (optional and only if you are experienced): Reconnect the harness, carefully start a drain cycle, and measure for 120VAC (or your region voltage) at the pump connector. Power present but pump not running = bad pump. No power = wiring, lid/door switch, timer, or control board issue. 6. Inspect impeller and shaft: Remove the pump and check the impeller for broken fins or seized shaft. Debris can jam the impeller and make motor hum. Replacement procedure (general guide): 1. Unplug machine and turn off water. Tilt or prop the washer back if needed to access the bottom, or remove the front/lower access panel per your model’s service manual. 2. Drain remaining water into a bucket by removing the drain hose from the standpipe or using the pump drain/filter access (have towels ready). 3. Locate the drain pump (usually at the bottom front or center of the washer). Take a photo of hose and wire placements for reassembly. 4. Remove clamps and detach inlet and outlet hoses from the pump. Use pliers for spring clamps or a screwdriver for worm clamps. 5. Disconnect the electrical connector(s) from the pump. 6. Remove mounting screws or clips holding the pump and take the old pump out. 7. Compare the new pump (79640512900) with the old one to ensure the same hose locations and connector type. 8. Install the new pump: mount it, fasten screws/clips, reconnect hoses and clamps (ensure tight seals), and reconnect electrical connectors. 9. Reassemble panels, restore power and water, and run a short drain/spin cycle to verify proper operation and check for leaks. 10. Final check: confirm the washer drains fully, runs quietly, and no error codes appear. Safety note: Always disconnect power before working on the appliance. If you are not comfortable working with electrical testing or lifting the washer, hire a qualified appliance technician.
Common Symptoms
Washer won’t drain or spin, water remains in tub after cycle, loud grinding or humming noises from bottom front, leaks near the pump, drain/error codes.
Common Causes
- Blocked pump inlet or drain hose (coins, lint, small clothing)
- Pump motor failure — burned windings or seized bearings
- Broken or damaged impeller
- Electrical fault (bad connector, wiring, lid/door switch, or control board)
- Cracked pump housing causing leaks
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Helpful Repair Tip
If the pump hums but won’t spin and shows continuity on the multimeter, the impeller or motor is likely seized — replace the pump. Also clear the pump inlet and drain hose first; small items often cause the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need to replace the drain pump or just clear a clog?
Start by checking and clearing the pump inlet and drain hose — many drain issues are caused by debris. If the washer still won’t drain, listen for the pump motor: humming with no rotation often means the motor is failing or impeller is jammed. Use a multimeter to check for continuity; an open circuit or burned windings means replace the pump.
How long does it take and how difficult is it to replace the Kenmore drain pump?
For a homeowner with basic tools, replacing the pump usually takes 30–60 minutes. Tasks include unplugging the washer, draining water, removing the access panel, disconnecting hoses and electrical connectors, swapping the pump, and reassembling. Difficulty is moderate — you need basic mechanical skills and to follow safety precautions. If uncertain, contact a professional.
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