Can I keep running the equipment with this fault active?

Generally no. Faults on Appliance units are emitted when a sensor, safety, or control circuit is outside its operating envelope. Running through an active fault risks compressor, heater, or control-board damage. Diagnose and clear the fault first.

What part is most commonly replaced for Maytag Washer Clutch / Splutch Assembly Replacement Guide?

The most frequently replaced parts for Maytag Washer Clutch / Splutch Assembly Replacement Guide are listed in the Parts Reference section of this guide with OEM part numbers and typical price ranges. Check the table for direct replacements.

Is Maytag Washer Clutch / Splutch Assembly Replacement Guide a DIY repair or do I need a technician?

Sensor swaps, fan motor replacements, and condenser cleaning are typical DIY-level repairs. Anything involving refrigerant, gas, or high-voltage (>240V) work requires a licensed technician for both safety and code-compliance reasons.

Maytag Washer Clutch / Splutch Assembly Replacement Guide

Q: What does Maytag Washer Clutch / Splutch Assembly Replacement Guide mean?

Weak or no spin, noisy agitation, and washplate motion problems point to a worn splutch. Replacing the drive clutch kit restores spin and wash action.

Q: How do I fix Maytag Washer Clutch / Splutch Assembly Replacement Guide?

Follow the step-by-step diagnosis below. The most likely fix is identified by checking power, sensor resistance, and control-board signals in order — using a multimeter and the part numbers documented in the parts reference table.

Maytag Washer Clutch / Splutch Assembly Replacement Guide — What This Part Does

The drive clutch (splutch) assembly is the cam-and-pulley system that transfers motor power to the gearcase, washplate, and basket in Maytag top-load washers with the Whirlpool-built drive. The mode shift actuator moves the cam ring in the splutch to switch between wash and spin cycles. Over time the cam teeth, cam ring, basket drive gear, or spring inside the splutch wear out or break, causing slip or failure to transfer torque. The pulley and nut can also loosen or wear, and belt-related drive slip at the clutch pulley adds to the problem.

Jump to Replacement Steps

Signs It Needs Replacing

No spin or weak spin The basket doesn’t spin at all or spins slowly even though the motor runs, leaving clothes soaking wet.
Noisy agitation or spin Grinding, clicking, or rattling sounds during wash or spin cycles indicate worn cam teeth or a broken spring.
Washplate doesn’t move correctly The agitator or washplate fails to move or jerks erratically during the wash cycle.
Basket or washplate motion problems The basket or washplate doesn’t transition properly between wash and spin modes.
Belt slipping at the pulley You smell burning rubber or see the belt tracking poorly on the clutch pulley during operation.
Visible wear on cam ring or drive gear Inspecting the underside of the splutch shows damaged splines, teeth, or a loose pulley nut.

How to Replace It

Unplug the washer and shut off the water supply before starting any service work.
Remove the lower belt cover or sound shield to access the drive belt and splutch assembly on the underside of the washer.
Inspect the drive belt, pulley, and underside of the splutch for belt tracking problems, binding, or damaged splines and teeth.
Remove the drive belt from the motor and clutch pulley, then use a 13 mm socket to remove the drive pulley nut from the splutch shaft.
Release the splutch housing tabs and remove the housing, cam ring, basket drive gear, and spring from the shaft.
Inspect the shift actuator pin and cam interface for correct engagement and any damage before installing the new parts.
Install the new splutch components in order: spring on the shaft, basket drive gear, cam ring engaged to the actuator pin, then housing, then pulley, then nut.
Reinstall the drive belt and lower covers, restore power and water, and run the factory calibration cycle to verify operation.
Test the washer through a complete wash and spin cycle to confirm the washplate moves correctly and the basket spins at full speed.

The Part You Need

Part	Notes
Maytag/Whirlpool Drive Clutch (Splutch) Kit W10721967	Amazon \| Kit includes spring, housing, cam ring, basket drive gear, pulley, and nut. Find your exact model and serial number on the plate inside the washer lid or on the rear panel to confirm fitment before ordering.

If this part is failing you may also see one of these codes:

When to Call a Pro

If you’ve ruled out a bad belt, seized gearcase, failed mode shift actuator, or load-imbalance and lid-switch issues but still see spin or washplate problems, or if you’re uncomfortable working under the washer with belts and rotating parts, call a tech. The splutch replacement itself is straightforward for a confident DIYer, but misdiagnosing the root cause wastes time and money on the wrong part.