We recently inspected an older GE washer model WHDSR209D5WW for a customer. The complaint was that the washer was not working properly and needed a full diagnosis.

After checking the unit, the washer needed a gear case assembly and tub cleaning. Because this washer was very old and not in great overall condition, we recommended that the customer consider replacing it instead of putting more money into a major repair.

On older top-load washers, a “not spinning” or poor-spin issue can be caused by several different things, including:

Worn gear case/transmission
Bad lid switch
Broken motor coupler
Worn clutch or drive belt
Drain pump restriction
Clogged drain hose
Weak motor
Timer or control issue
Overloaded tub or unbalanced load
Heavy buildup inside the tub or basket area

Sometimes the washer may still agitate but not spin. Other times it may drain but leave clothes soaking wet. 

That’s why proper diagnosis matters before ordering parts.
In this case, the repair was possible, but because of the age and condition of the machine, replacement made more sense.

Question for the group:
Would you repair an older washer if it needed a major gear case repair, or would you replace it? 

Washer Not Spinning? Older GE Washer Repair Case