How to Remove the Whirlpool 2-in-1 Removable Agitator

The Whirlpool 2-in-1 removable agitator on select WTW top-load models is designed to lift out easily for washing large items like comforters and sleeping bags. However, many owners do not realize this feature exists or struggle with the removal mechanism. This guide covers the complete removal procedure, cleaning the agitator components, and troubleshooting the removal mechanism when it sticks.

The 2-in-1 agitator design allows your WTW to function either as a traditional agitator washer (better for heavily soiled work clothes) or as an impeller-style washer (gentler on large items). Understanding when to remove it improves both wash performance and fabric care.

Before You Start

• Tools needed: None for normal removal (hand operation), pliers if stuck, flashlight for inspection
• Parts needed: None (removal procedure)
• Time required: 5 minutes normal, 15-30 minutes if stuck
• Difficulty: Beginner
• Safety warning: Unplug the washing machine before inspecting any mechanism below the agitator. Do not reach below the agitator while the machine is powered.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Identify Your Agitator Type

Not all Whirlpool WTW top-load washers have the removable agitator. Look for the 2-in-1 designation in your model documentation, or inspect the agitator itself. Removable versions have a smooth top cap with a subtle grip ridge, and the upper portion lifts independently from the base. Non-removable versions have a solid one-piece construction that connects directly to the drive mechanism below.

Check your model number — WTW models ending in "HW" or "BW" typically include the 2-in-1 feature.

Step 2: Grasp and Lift the Upper Agitator

The upper portion of the 2-in-1 agitator lifts straight up out of the base. Grasp the top firmly with both hands and pull directly upward with steady force. It sits in the base with a friction fit and may require 10-15 pounds of upward force on the first removal. Do not twist — lift straight up only. Twisting can damage the internal splines.

If the agitator has never been removed (or not in many months), detergent residue and mineral deposits may have bonded the surfaces together. In this case, proceed to the troubleshooting steps below.

Step 3: Clean the Agitator Interior

With the upper agitator removed, inspect the inside of the base and the bottom of the upper section. You will likely find accumulated lint, small items (coins, buttons), and detergent residue. Use a flashlight to look down into the agitator base where the drive spline connects. Remove any trapped items with long-handled pliers or tweezers.

Wash the upper agitator section in the sink with hot soapy water. Use a bottle brush to clean inside the cylindrical interior where residue builds up. Rinse thoroughly and dry before reinstalling.

Step 4: Inspect the Drive Mechanism

With the agitator removed, you can see the drive spline and the impeller plate at the bottom of the tub. This is the mechanism that powers agitation. Inspect the spline for wear — rounded or chipped teeth mean the agitator was slipping during cycles rather than fully engaging. The impeller plate should spin freely by hand in one direction (the sprag clutch allows one-way rotation).

Step 5: Reinstall (When Ready)

To reinstall, align the upper agitator section over the base, orienting the internal splines to match. Press straight down firmly until you feel it seat fully. You should feel a positive engagement when the splines mesh. Rock it slightly side to side — it should not wobble. If it sits higher than before removal or wobbles, remove and realign.

Step 6: Deep Water Wash Without Agitator

With the upper agitator removed, your WTW operates like an impeller washer. Select the Deep Water Wash option (Whirlpool's extra-fill feature) for large items. The impeller plate at the bottom provides gentle circulation without the center agitator column that can tangle sheets and comforters.

For best results with bulky items, use the Bulky Items or Sheets cycle if available on your model. These cycles use lower spin speeds that prevent bunching.

Troubleshooting a Stuck Agitator

If the upper agitator will not lift out with hand force:

Method 1: Hot Water Soak

Fill the tub with hot water to just above the agitator base. Add 1 cup of white vinegar. Let it soak for 30 minutes. The hot water and vinegar dissolve the detergent residue bonding the surfaces. Try lifting again.

Method 2: Controlled Leverage

If soaking does not work, wrap a rag around the agitator top to protect the plastic. Use a large pair of channel-lock pliers (padded with the rag) for a better grip. Pull straight up — never pry sideways, which can crack the agitator body or damage the splines.

Method 3: Penetrating Oil

As a last resort, apply a small amount of penetrating oil (like PB Blaster) around the seam between the upper and lower agitator sections. Wait 15 minutes, then attempt removal. Run a Clean Washer cycle with Affresh afterward to remove any oil residue from the tub.

When to Remove the Agitator

Remove the agitator for:

• Washing king-size comforters or quilts (prevents bunching around the center post)
• Washing sleeping bags (zipper can catch on agitator vanes)
• Washing large blankets or area rugs
• Deep cleaning the agitator interior (recommended quarterly)
• Accessing the impeller mechanism for repair or inspection

Keep the agitator installed for:

• Normal daily laundry (agitation is more effective for removing stains)
• Work clothes with heavy soil
• Small loads where items need mechanical action

When to Call a Professional

• The agitator base will not engage the drive spline after reinstallation (stripped splines)
• You hear grinding or clicking during agitation that was not present before removal
• The impeller plate below the agitator is cracked or has missing pieces
• The shift actuator (beneath the tub) is making clicking sounds during mode transitions, which is a separate issue from the removable agitator

Cost Comparison: DIY vs Professional

Need Professional Help?

• washing machine repair service
• whirlpool appliance repair
• washing machine repair cost guide

FAQ

Q: Can I run my Whirlpool WTW washer permanently without the agitator? A: Yes, but cleaning performance on heavily soiled items will decrease. Without the agitator, the machine operates solely on the impeller plate, which provides gentler action. It works well for lightly soiled clothes and delicates but may not adequately clean work clothes or stained items.

Q: Does removing the agitator void my Whirlpool warranty? A: No. The 2-in-1 removable agitator is designed for owner removal and reinstallation. This is a normal-use feature documented in the owner's manual.

Q: How do I know if my Whirlpool agitator is worn out? A: Signs of agitator wear include: visible stripped or rounded spline teeth, wobbling when installed (upper section rocks on the base), reduced agitation power (clothes not moving effectively), and clicking sounds during the wash cycle.

Q: What is the Deep Water Wash option and when should I use it? A: Deep Water Wash is Whirlpool's feature that adds extra water beyond what the Adaptive Wash sensor selects. Use it for bulky items, heavily soiled loads, or any time you want more water for better fabric movement. It was Whirlpool's response to customer complaints about HE washers using too little water.

---

Need a certified technician? Book same-day repair →