Kenmore Elite HE3 Washing Machine central control unit Replacement

ID: 79564

Description:

Steps:

  1. My 13 year old Kenmore HE3 washer failed to power on the other day. No error codes, no lights. I checked to be sure the breaker had not tripped and that the outlet actually had power. Everything was OK, except the washer simply did not get any power.
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  2. I had downloaded both the Owner's Manual and the Service Manual for this washer, so I looked thru them for a solution. The only thing I found was the recommendation in the Troubleshooting section of the Service Manual that it was likely the CCU failing.
  3. The Manual suggests testing by unplugging the washer from power, waiting a few minutes & then plugging it back into power. If you do NOT hear an audible CLICK noise, replace the CCU. I did this and did NOT hear anything. We need a new central control unit.
  4. Before beginning any disassembly, be sure to UNPLUG the washer from the power outlet. SAFETY FIRST!
  5. The central control unit (CCU) is located under the top panel of the washer, mounted to the rear frame support. To remove the top panel, use the Torx bit and driver to remove the three screws on the top back edge of the top panel. Do not lose these. A good idea is to put them in a zip lock bag and tape them to the front of the washer.
  6. To complete the top panel removal, slide the panel back about an inch & lift the rear edge of the panel. The panel should come off easily. Set it aside out of the way.
  7. To make this easier and to be ready for the re-assembly, go ahead and CLOSE the washer door.
  8. The CCU looks like the picture here. Now is the time to take pictures of the front side and left side of the CCU to assist in the proper re-assembly after swapping in the replacement part.
  9. Carefully remove the plugs from their respective connections. Carefully remove the cables from the CCU cable guides, noting their locations for the re-assembly.
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  10. There are three plastic tabs securing the CCU to the rear frame. Use a flat blade screw driver to CAREFULLY lift the edges of the tabs so the CCU can be slowly moved towards the front of the washer.
  11. Remove the old CCU.
  12. Order a replacement CCU. There are a number of sources you can use. We purchased from a reputable appliance parts source in town which we have used for stove parts in the past. Be sure to provide the model and serial number of the washer so you get the right part.
  13. Once your replacement part arrives, compare it to the old part to be sure you have the correct part!
  14. Follow the steps in reverse to install the replacement part. I attached the CCU to the frame before re-connecting the plugs & sliding the cables into the guides.
  15. Be careful plugging things in. These connections are not robust. You do not want to break anything.
  16. Put the top panel on the washer and slide it into position. Locate your screws for the top panel & re-install them using the Torx bit and driver.
  17. Be sure the door to the washer is CLOSED before re-connecting the washer to power.
  18. Connect the power for the washer. You should her a CLICK from the washer. You are ready to test.
  19. LIGHTS... CAMERA... ACTION! We have lights on the washer!
  20. I ran a short cycle, water only, to test. It ran perfectly.
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