WP389140 Genuine OEM Whirlpool Washer Drive Block
The WP389140 is a genuine Whirlpool OEM drive block for large-capacity belt-drive and direct-drive top-load washers. This is a purely mechanical coupling component: it connects the inner spin basket to the transmission's drive shaft, so that when the transmission turns, the basket turns with it. Without a properly seated drive block, the connection between the motor's rotational power and the basket is lost or unreliable, even though every electrical component in the washer may be working perfectly.
Measuring approximately 2-5/16" high, this drive block is a wear component subject to gradual mechanical stress every time the washer agitates or spins. A worn or failed drive block produces a distinctive set of symptoms: the basket may spin freely without properly engaging, the washer may spin slowly and leave clothes excessively wet, or you may hear a loud knocking or banging noise during operation as the connection between the basket and drive shaft becomes loose or worn. It directly replaces 389140, AP6008836, 357782, 97360, J27-936, PS11741977, PS349903, AP2905773, WH40X180, WP389140VP, LP16171, and 2858.
Quick Answer
The WP389140 Genuine OEM Whirlpool Washer Drive Block fixes Whirlpool, Kenmore, Maytag, KitchenAid, Roper, Admiral, Amana, Crosley, Estate, and Inglis top-load washers with a basket that spins freely without engaging, slow spinning that leaves clothes excessively wet, or loud knocking/banging noise during operation. Approximately 2-5/16" high. For large-capacity belt-drive and direct-drive washers. Replaces 389140, AP6008836, 357782, 97360, J27-936, PS11741977, PS349903, AP2905773, WH40X180, WP389140VP, LP16171, 2858. This repair typically requires a spanner wrench to remove a large securing nut — budget for the right tool before starting.
Common Problems This Part Fixes
Washer basket spins freely without properly engaging during the wash or spin cycle
Washer spins slowly, leaving clothes excessively wet at the end of a cycle
Loud knocking or banging noise during operation
Washer shakes or moves noticeably during spin
Basket continues spinning after the cycle should have stopped
Inefficient wash and spin cycles overall due to poor basket engagement
Cross Reference Information
Part numbers can change over a product's lifecycle as manufacturers update designs or release new appliance models. For your convenience, we've included any known superseded, alternate, or cross-reference part numbers that match this item.
Replaces Part Numbers
This washer drive block directly replaces the following OEM and cross-reference part numbers:
WP389140, 389140, 357782, 97360, PD00002363, EAP11741977, WP389140VP, AP6008836, AWP47839, J27-936, PS11741977.
If your part number is not listed above, contact our support team before ordering and we will verify compatibility.
Compatibility
This drive block is compatible with select Whirlpool large-capacity top-load washers (belt-drive and direct-drive), and also fits select Kenmore, Maytag, KitchenAid, Roper, Admiral, Amana, Crosley, Estate, and Inglis washers built on the Whirlpool platform, including model numbers such as:
NTW4516FW, NTW4516FW3, NTW4516FW4
WTW4816FW2, WTW4816FW3
RTW4516FW, NTW4605EW, WTW4800BQ
Note: Always verify your full model number before ordering, since Whirlpool uses different drive block designs across its washer lineup. Contact our support team with your model number if you're unsure.
Key Features
Genuine Whirlpool OEM part — factory-specified fit for a secure basket-to-transmission connection
Connects the inner spin basket to the transmission's drive shaft
Resolves "basket spins freely," "slow spin, clothes too wet," and "loud knocking noise" symptoms caused by drive block wear
Approximately 2-5/16" high
Designed for large-capacity belt-drive and direct-drive washer platforms
Direct drop-in replacement matching the original fit onto the spin tube notches
Replaces 389140, AP6008836, 357782, 97360, J27-936, PS11741977, PS349903, AP2905773, WH40X180, WP389140VP, LP16171, and 2858
Compatible with Whirlpool, Kenmore, Maytag, KitchenAid, Roper, Admiral, Amana, Crosley, Estate, and Inglis washers
Genuine OEM replacement — guaranteed fit, materials, and performance
Product Specifications
Part Number
WP389140
Part Type
Washer Drive Block
Condition
Genuine OEM
Brand
Whirlpool
Application
Large-Capacity Belt-Drive and Direct-Drive Top-Load Washers
Height
Approx. 2-5/16 in.
Function
Connects the inner spin basket to the transmission drive shaft
Related Component
Drive cam (commonly inspected/replaced during the same repair)
Repair Difficulty
Moderate — spanner wrench and washer disassembly required
Quantity
1 drive block
Compatible Brands
Whirlpool, Kenmore, Maytag, KitchenAid, Roper, Admiral, Amana, Crosley, Estate, Inglis
Installation Notes
⚠️ Unplug Washer And Shut Off Water Supply Before Starting — Spanner Wrench Required Disconnect power at the outlet or shut off the circuit breaker, and shut off the hot and cold water supply valves before beginning. Wear work gloves. Remove the washer's top and control console per your model's service instructions to access the inner tub assembly. Remove the agitator and any hardware securing the basket, which typically includes a large center nut — a spanner wrench is required to remove this nut, along with a socket and long extension for other fasteners; expect to remove a fair number of components to fully access the drive block. Lift the wash basket out to expose the drive block, which sits on the spin tube near the center of the transmission. Photograph the orientation of the old drive block and any surrounding hardware before removing it. Lift the old drive block free, and while it's accessible, inspect the drive cam nearby for wear as well, since it's commonly replaced at the same time. Slide the new WP389140 drive block into position, making sure it seats fully onto the spin tube notches, and reassemble the basket, hardware, agitator, console, and top panel in reverse order. Restore water and power, then run a test cycle through both wash and spin to confirm the basket engages properly with no unusual noise. Tools needed: multi-screwdriver, spanner wrench, socket set with long extension, work gloves.
Frequently Asked Questions
My washer basket spins freely and doesn't seem connected to anything. Is this the drive block?
Yes, this is the classic symptom of a failed drive block. Since this component is the mechanical link between the transmission's drive shaft and the inner spin basket, once it wears out or fails, the basket can spin independently without properly engaging, even though the motor and transmission are working normally.
Do I really need a spanner wrench for this repair?
Yes, on most models. Accessing the drive block requires removing a large nut that secures the basket assembly, and this nut is specifically designed to be removed with a spanner wrench rather than a standard socket. Trying to remove it without the correct tool risks damaging the nut or the surrounding components, so it's worth having one on hand before you start.
Should I replace the drive cam at the same time?
It's worth inspecting while you have the assembly open, since the drive cam sits in the same area and is commonly replaced alongside the drive block when a technician is already this far into the repair. If it shows visible wear, replacing both at once saves you from repeating this same teardown again soon after.
Is this an OEM or aftermarket part?
This is a genuine OEM part, manufactured by Whirlpool to factory specifications — guaranteed fit, materials, and performance. It matches the original dimensions and fit of the drive block originally installed in your washer.
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