Kenmore 70 Series Washer Not Spinning: Troubleshooting Tips to Fix the Issue

During laundry day, there’s nothing more frustrating than discovering that your Kenmore 70 Series Washer is not spinning as it should. A malfunctioning washer can throw your entire routine off balance, leaving you with a pile of wet clothes and a laundry dilemma to solve. But worry not, as we’re here to help address the issue of a Kenmore 70 Series Washer not spinning.

The Kenmore 70 Series washer may not be spinning due to a malfunctioning drive belt or a faulty lid switch. In addition to those common issues, there could also be problems with the motor coupling or the motor itself.

By understanding the possible causes and exploring effective solutions, you’ll be back to smoothly running laundry cycles in no time. So, let’s dive into troubleshooting this problem and get your washer back to efficient spinning action.

Possible Causes

When your Kenmore 70 Series washer won’t spin, it can be frustrating and inconvenient. Understanding the possible causes of this issue will help you troubleshoot and resolve the problem more effectively. Below, we will explore three potential culprits to consider: a clogged drain pump, a worn-out drive belt, and an overloaded machine.

Clogged Drain Pump

A clogged drain pump is one of the most common causes of a Kenmore 70 Series washer not spinning. Over time, debris and foreign objects may accumulate in the drain pump, hindering its ability to function properly.

When this happens, the washer may be unable to drain water effectively, resulting in an automatic shut-off of the spinning cycle.

Here’s how you can check for and address a clogged drain pump:

• Turn off and unplug the washer to ensure your safety.
• Locate the drain pump, usually found at the bottom of the machine.
• Inspect the pump for any visible debris, such as lint, hair, or small objects. Remove any obstructions you find using a pair of tweezers or needle-nose pliers.
• Once you’ve cleared any blockages, plug in the washer and run a test cycle to see if the spinning issue is resolved.

Worn Out Drive Belt

Another potential cause of a Kenmore 70 Series washer not spinning is a worn-out drive belt. Over time, this essential component can become stretched, worn, or broken, resulting in a loss of power transmission to the drum. If the drive belt is faulty, the washer may still go through the wash cycle but fail to enter the spinning phase.

To check if the drive belt is the culprit, follow these steps:

• Ensure the washer is turned off and unplugged.
• Access the rear panel of the machine to locate the drive belt.
• Examine the belt for any signs of damage, such as cracks or fraying. If you notice any visible issues, it’s likely time to replace the belt.
• Refer to your washer’s user manual or the manufacturer’s website to find the correct replacement belt model.
• Once you have the new belt, carefully remove the old one and install the replacement following the manufacturer’s instructions.
• After replacing the drive belt, plug in the washer and test if the spinning function has been restored.

Overloaded Machine

It is worth considering whether you may have overloaded your Kenmore 70 Series washer. Overloading the machine with too many clothes can cause an imbalance in the drum, disrupting the spinning process. The washer’s built-in safety features may detect this imbalance and prevent the spinning cycle from initiating.

To address this issue, follow these steps:

• Remove some clothes from the washer to lighten the load.
• Distribute the remaining garments evenly in the drum to ensure a balanced load for spinning.
• Restart the washing machine and see if the spinning cycle resumes normally.

By examining these possible causes of a Kenmore 70 Series washer not spinning, you can troubleshoot the issue effectively and restore the functionality of your machine. Remember to follow safety precautions and consult your washer’s user manual or manufacturer’s website for specific instructions tailored to your model.

Checking the Drain Pump

To troubleshoot a Kenmore 70 Series Washer Not Spinning issue, check the drain pump for clogs or blockages. Clearing any debris may solve the problem and restore proper functioning.

Disconnecting the Power

To begin checking the drain pump on your Kenmore 70 Series washer not spinning, it’s important to first disconnect the power. This will ensure your safety while working on the appliance. Locate the power cord at the back of the washer and unplug it from the electrical outlet. Double-check that the power is disconnected before moving forward with any repair or troubleshooting steps.

Removing the Front Panel

With the power disconnected, the next step is to remove the front panel of your Kenmore 70 Series washer. This will give you access to the drain pump to check for any potential issues. Begin by finding and removing the screws holding the front panel in place.

These screws are typically located at the bottom of the front panel, near the floor. Use a screwdriver to carefully unscrew and remove them. Once the screws are removed, gently pull the front panel away from the washer. Set the panel aside in a safe location to prevent damage.

Now that you have removed the front panel, you can proceed to check the drain pump. The drain pump is responsible for removing water from the washer during the spin cycle. If it is not working properly, this could be the cause of the washer not spinning.

Start by visually inspecting the drain pump for any signs of damage or blockages. Look for any debris, such as lint or small objects, that may be clogging the pump. If you notice any blockages, use a pair of tweezers or pliers to carefully remove them.

If no visible blockages are present, you can perform a more thorough check of the drain pump. Use a multimeter to test the pump for continuity. Set the multimeter to the ohms setting and touch the probes to the terminals on the pump. If the multimeter registers no continuity, this indicates a faulty drain pump that needs to be replaced.

In some cases, the issue may not be with the drain pump itself, but with the pump motor. To check the motor, again use the multimeter to test for continuity. Follow the same steps as before, touching the probes to the motor’s terminals.

If the multimeter does not show continuity, the motor will likely need to be replaced. However, if the motor is functioning properly, the drain pump itself may still be the culprit and should be replaced.

Once you have checked the drain pump and identified any issues, it’s time to move forward with the necessary repairs or replacements. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional assistance to ensure the repairs are done correctly and safely. Remember to reconnect the power only once all repairs have been completed.

Cleaning the Drain Pump

Cleaning the drain pump is crucial when your Kenmore 70 Series washer is not spinning. Remove any debris and blockages to ensure optimal functionality and prevent further issues. Trust our expert tips to get your washer back in top shape.

Emptying the Washer

If your Kenmore 70 Series washer is not spinning, one of the potential causes could be a clogged drain pump. Cleaning the drain pump requires emptying the washer of any remaining water before proceeding. Follow these steps to empty the washer:

• Start by unplugging the washer’s power cord from the electrical outlet to ensure safety.
• Next, locate the drain hose, which is typically located behind the washer. Position a bucket or a large container beneath the hose to catch any water that may flow out.
• Detach the drain hose from the washer and allow the water to drain into the bucket. Once the water has stopped flowing, reattach the hose to the washer.
• Now you can move on to the next step of cleaning the drain pump.

Removing the Pump Filter

The drain pump filter is responsible for preventing debris from entering the pump and potentially causing damage or blockages. Be sure to follow these instructions carefully when removing the pump filter:

• Find the access panel on the front of the washer, usually located at the bottom. Open the panel to reveal the pump filter.
• Place a towel or absorbent cloth beneath the filter area to catch any water that may spill out during the cleaning process.
• Using a screwdriver or a coin, turn the filter handle counterclockwise to loosen it. Slowly pull out the filter and allow any water trapped inside to drain into the towel or cloth.
• Inspect the filter for any blockages or debris. If necessary, use a brush or cloth to clean the filter thoroughly.
• Once the filter is clean, insert it back into the washer and secure it by turning the handle clockwise until it is tight.
• Close the access panel and ensure it is securely in place.
• Now you can test the washer to see if the cleaning process has resolved the issue of it not spinning.

By following these steps and cleaning the drain pump, you can improve the performance of your Kenmore 70 Series washer and keep it running smoothly. Remember to refer to your washer’s manual for specific instructions and always prioritize safety when working with electrical appliances.

Inspecting the Drive Belt

One possible cause of this problem is a worn or damaged drive belt. The drive belt is responsible for turning the drum of the washer during the spin cycle. If it becomes worn or torn, it can prevent the drum from spinning properly. In this section, we will guide you through the process of inspecting the drive belt and determining whether it needs to be replaced.

Locating the Drive Belt

Before inspecting the drive belt, it’s important to know where to find it. The drive belt is typically located at the bottom of the washer, behind a removable access panel. To access the drive belt, you’ll need to unplug the washer from the power source and remove any screws or clips securing the access panel. Once the access panel is removed, you should be able to see the drive belt.

Examining the Belt for Wear and Tear

Once you have located the drive belt, you’ll need to carefully examine it for any signs of wear and tear. Here are a few things to look out for:

• Tears or cracks in the belt
• Excessive fraying or stretching
• Loose or damaged pulleys
• Visible signs of belt deterioration

Using a flashlight, inspect the entire length of the belt, paying close attention to any areas that appear damaged. If you notice any of these signs, the drive belt likely needs to be replaced. A worn or damaged drive belt can cause the drum to spin inconsistently or not spin at all.

If you are unsure about the condition of the drive belt, you can perform a simple test. With the washer unplugged, try rotating the drum by hand. If the drum spins freely and smoothly, the drive belt may not be the cause of the problem. However, if you encounter resistance or the drum does not spin at all, it’s a strong indication that the drive belt is worn or damaged.

Replacing the Drive Belt

The Kenmore 70 Series washer may not spin due to a worn-out drive belt. Replace the drive belt to restore spinning functionality and ensure a smooth laundry experience.

Ordering a Replacement Belt

If your Kenmore 70 Series Washer is not spinning, the culprit could be a worn-out drive belt. Fortunately, replacing the drive belt is a relatively simple task that you can do yourself. The first step is to order a replacement belt. Here’s how:

• Identify the model number of your Kenmore 70 Series Washer. You can find this information either on the back of the machine or in the owner’s manual.
• Visit the Kenmore website or a trusted online retailer that sells appliance parts.
• Using the model number, search for the appropriate drive belt for your washer.
• Read customer reviews and check the ratings to ensure that you are purchasing a high-quality belt.
• Add the replacement belt to your cart and proceed to checkout.
• Provide your shipping address and payment information to complete the order.

Once you have successfully ordered the replacement belt, you are ready to move on to the next step: removing the old belt.

Removing the Old Belt

Before you begin this process, make sure to unplug the washer from the power source to avoid any accidents. Here’s how to remove the old drive belt:

• Locate the access panel at the back of your Kenmore 70 Series Washer.
• Use a screwdriver to remove the screws securing the panel in place.
• With the access panel removed, you will see the drive belt wrapped around the motor pulley and the drum pulley.
• Take note of how the belt is positioned before removing it. This will make it easier to install the new belt later.
• Release the tension on the belt by pushing the motor away from the drum.
• Once the tension is released, carefully slide the belt off the pulleys.
• Inspect the old belt for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
• If the belt is worn out or damaged, dispose of it properly.

Now that you have successfully removed the old drive belt, you can proceed to install the replacement belt.

Final Steps

The final steps to troubleshoot a Kenmore 70 Series Washer Not Spinning involve reassembling the washer and testing its spinning function. By carefully following these steps, you can identify and resolve the issue, avoiding costly repairs or replacements.

Reassembling the Washer

To ensure proper functioning, it is essential to reassemble the washer correctly. Follow these steps:

• Take the drum and place it back into the washer, ensuring it is aligned properly.
• Reconnect any hoses or electrical connections that were disconnected during the troubleshooting process.
• Tighten all screws and bolts that secure the drum and other parts in place. Ensure they are snug but not over-tightened.

By reassembling the washer systematically, you can eliminate any loose or disconnected components that may have contributed to the not spinning issue.

Testing the Spinning Function

Once the washer is reassembled, it’s time to test the spinning function and see if the problem has been resolved. Follow these steps:

• Close the lid of the washer and ensure it is securely locked.
• Select a cycle that includes spinning, such as the “Spin” or “Quick Spin” setting.
• Start the cycle and observe the washer’s spinning action.
• Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations during the spinning process.

If the washer spins smoothly without any issues, congratulations! Your troubleshooting efforts have paid off, and the problem is resolved. However, if the spinning problem persists, further inspection or professional assistance may be required.

By following these final steps, you have taken the necessary actions to reassemble the washer correctly and test its spinning function. With a little patience and troubleshooting, you can restore your Kenmore 70 Series Washer to its efficient spinning operations, saving you time and money in the process.

Final Words

If you’re experiencing the frustrating issue of a Kenmore 70 Series Washer not spinning, there are various potential solutions to explore. From checking for loose or damaged belts to inspecting the lid switch and motor coupler, troubleshooting the problem can help you get your washer back in working order.

Remember to consult the appliance manual or consider professional assistance if needed. Don’t let a non-spinning washer dampen your laundry routine—take action to solve the problem and enjoy clean, fresh clothes once again. Happy washing!