If your top load Kenmore washer will not agitate, it might be that the directional cogs or “dogs” are worn out. This is a common problem with the agitator.
If you take your hands and rotate the agitator in the washer’s tub, it should only go in one direction. It will ratchet to the right, stop and ratchet to the right again, it should not spin freely. If the agitator is not functioning properly then it’s time to install a new set of agitator directional cogs because they are probably worn out.
Using a 1/4″ or 3/8″ socket set, and some needle nose pliers begin by removing the fabric softener cup, just pull up on it until it pops off of the agitator. Next, remove the inner cap and seal inside of the agitator using your needle nose pliers. Using a 7/16″ socket and ratchet, remove the bolt in the center of the agitator.
Separate the barrel of the agitator from the base by simply pulling up on the barrel. You will now have access to the cam and dog assembly inside.
Remove the black retainer from around the cam, lift the directional cogs out (taking notice of how they fit into the cam,) replace them with the new ones. Now slide the retainer back on until it clicks.
Reinsert the cam back into the top of the agitator barrel and reinsert the 7/16″ bolt into the center of the agitator. Replace the cap and gasket assembly pressing on it firmly until it snaps into place. Next, replace the fabric softener dispenser.
Now you can test your repair out by lifting up on the top of the agitator with both hands and giving it a twist in both directions. The agitator should be catching now, it will only catch as it goes to the left, (counterclockwise) it will not catch as it turns to the right, (clockwise.)