Whirlpool Washing Machine Agitator (WP3947517)

The Whirlpool Washing Machine Agitator is the central post inside the wash tub that moves clothes through the water during the wash cycle. It rotates back and forth to create the scrubbing action that loosens dirt and detergent from fabrics, working in tandem with the drive system beneath the tub.

The Whirlpool Washing Machine Agitator can crack, break, or wear out over time due to heavy loads, overloading the washer, or normal use across many cycles. The agitator dogs or directional cogs inside the assembly can also strip out, allowing the agitator to spin freely in one direction without gripping or moving clothes properly.

Watch for these symptoms to help determine if the agitator needs to be replaced:

- Clothes come out of the wash still dirty or unevenly cleaned

- Agitator spins freely in both directions without resistance

- Agitator moves in one direction only and does not oscillate

- Visible cracks, chips, or breaks on the agitator body or fins

- Loud clunking or clicking noise during the wash cycle

- Agitator feels loose, wobbles, or does not stay seated on the drive shaft