Whirlpool WTW5057LW0 — Cam, Hub, Actuator & Belt Kit: Fix Agitation and Spin Problems
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
If your Whirlpool WTW5057LW0 top-load washer stops agitating or spinning, or it makes grinding/clunking noises during the cycle, the likely culprits are the cam/actuator assembly, the inner drive hub, or a worn/broken drive belt. These components transmit motor torque to the wash basket or impeller; when one wears out or shears, the basket may not turn even though the motor runs. Typically symptoms begin gradually (slipping, intermittent agitation) and progress to a complete failure. Replacing the cam/hub/actuator and, if worn, the drive belt restores the mechanical linkage between the motor and tub. Because these parts wear together, many technicians replace them as a kit to prevent repeat failures and ensure correct fit and alignment.
Common Symptoms
Washer motor runs but tub won’t agitate or spin; loud grinding, slipping, or scraping noises during spin; intermittent agitation; visible damage or oil/grease on plastic cam; belt wear or breakage.
Common Causes
- Worn or broken cam/actuator (plastic splines stripped from normal wear or overloaded loads)
- Damaged or sheared inner drive hub that connects the gearcase to the basket/agitator
- Worn, glazed, or broken drive belt causing slippage between motor and gearbox
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 PartsDiscount.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
With the washer off, try a manual spin on the basket/agitator. If you can turn it freely but the motor runs without moving the tub, test for play or visible damage at the plastic cam/hub and inspect the belt for glazing or cracking — these are quick confirmatory checks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if the cam/actuator is the problem or if it's the motor/gearcase?
If the motor runs (you can hear it) but the tub does not agitate or spin, and you see plastic debris, chewed splines, or excessive play at the lower hub/cam area, the cam or hub is the likely failure. A faulty gearcase often produces loud metallic grinding and oil leaks; a motor issue will usually produce no motor sound or a burning smell. Always disconnect power and visually inspect the cam/hub and belt first.
Can I replace just the belt instead of the whole kit?
You can replace only the belt if it is clearly worn, glazed, or broken and the cam/hub show no damage. However, because the plastic cam and hub commonly wear at the same time as the belt, many technicians recommend replacing the cam/hub/actuator and belt together to prevent a repeat failure shortly after repair. Verify parts compatibility with your exact model number before ordering.
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 PartsDiscount.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 PartsDiscount.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.