Maytag top-load agitator stopped working on full loads

[theappliancemedic]

Hey everyone! I've got a Maytag top-loader that's around 10 years old. The agitator works great with small loads, but when I fill the drum past halfway, it hardly moves at all. There aren't any weird noises coming from it. Do you think it's worth trying to fix, or should I look into getting a new machine? I'd really appreciate any tips

 

[cardiff.121]

This is a pretty common problem and a good sign that the agitator dogs are worn out, but the fact that you're not hearing any grinding noises is a good thing 'coz it means the main gears are likely still in decent shape.
It's a shame to give up on your Maytag, and I think it's absolutely worth trying to fix it yourself before you even think of buying a new washer.
You can try getting a replacement kit, which shouldn't cost you more than $20 and it takes about 15 minutes to do.
Just pop off the agitator cap, remove a bolt, and pull the agitator out. The replacement parts just drop in.
There are tons of videos on YouTube showing exactly how to do it.

 

[saladguy67]

Yep, it happened to an old Maytag of ours too. turns out the agitator dogs were worn out. They're cheap and easy to replace if you're handy with a socket wrench. If the motor and spin cycle are still good, it's probably worth fixing. Mine's still kicking after that quick repair. Hope that helps!