Whirpool Top Lid Switch

[geaston]

I have several whirlpool tops, about 4-5 years old. One of the lid switches is no longer attached to the top. How on earth do I swap it out without taking the whole machine apart? It doesn't appear that the switch is clipped in, which, if true, is a horrible desgin feature. The thing is obviously worthless without a lid switch, so any help guiding me toward switching it out will be much appreciated. Thanks.

Geaston

[PeterH]

I had a couple WP tops that I replaced a few years ago. You have to take the cabinet off, which is actually quite easy, but then the way it is wired, you have to do some contortions to get it strung right. Since the switch is plastic, don't tighten the screws in them too tightly or they will strip.

[William]

Also, don't throw out the old switch as you might need to splice the old connector onto the new switch.

[DaveLevenson]

I'm not familiar with Whirlpool tops, but on older Maytag tops, you can push the drum about four inches toward the rear of the cabinet by leaning on the agitator. Prop it in that position with a 2x4 or something, and you can get to the bottom of the lid switch by reaching in through the lid-opening. Don't know if this applies to other brands.

(On newer Maytag tops, you can get to the lid switch by removing the front panel of the console.)

[PeterH]

I think on the Maytag, the wires are right there to connect to the switch. Seems to me on the WP, the wires are integrated into the switch and need to be "threaded" around the cabinet and up into the control area...