Ethan Clarke
KitchenAid mixers are popular appliances, with many passionate users. However, some older models have plastic parts that can be prone to failure. If your mixer won't spin or is noisy, the plastic gear may be to blame. KitchenAid has addressed this issue in newer models, but for those with older models, replacing the plastic gear with a metal one can be a solution. This guide will walk you through the process of replacing the plastic gear in your KitchenAid mixer, restoring its performance and extending its lifespan.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to replace | When your KitchenAid stand mixer slips, grinds, or stops spinning altogether |
| Cause | Worn gears, cheap plastic housing, or a cracked gearbox cover |
| Replacement parts | Worm gears, shafts, housings, and internal gears |
| Tools | Spudger, flathead screwdriver, pin punch, hammer, flat-blade screwdriver |
| Additional parts | New seal for upper housing, food-grade grease |
| Customer support | KitchenAid Customer Satisfaction Center at 1-800-541-6390, KitchenAid Live Chat |
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What You'll Learn
Removing the worm gear from the tower
KitchenAid stand mixers are designed to survive a number of normal breakdowns and parts replacements. The mixer's gears are designed to wear over time and/or fail under stress. The worm gear is made of a hard nylon material that is less hard than the other metal gears in the gearbox. This ensures that the worm gear breaks before the metal gears, which are more expensive and difficult to replace.
To remove the worm gear from the tower, follow these steps:
First, remove excess grease on the gears to access the gear tower assembly. Use a putty knife to scoop the grease off and place it in the upper portion of the gearbox. Next, unscrew the tower assembly screws and lift it from the mixer. The gear tower assembly is only held in place with two or three Phillips head screws. Now, use a hammer and a pin punch to gently strike the gear tower roll pin until it comes out of the tower assembly. The roll pin holds the gear tower gears together. Once the roll pin is removed, slide the tower gear out to access the worm gear.
To remove the worm gear, there are a few additional steps. Using a spudger, gently pry off the aluminum drip ring. Then, using a 4 mm pin punch and a hammer, dislodge the pin from the planetary gear cover. Next, use a flathead screwdriver to remove the five 28 mm front motor housing screws, the two 28 mm locking screws, and the two 28 mm rear locking screws. Be sure not to interchange the locking screws with the front motor housing screws, as they have different safety locking mechanisms.
Now, you are ready to remove the worm gear from the tower. To reassemble the device, follow these instructions in reverse order.
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Using a flat-blade screwdriver to drive the drip ring off
KitchenAid mixers are known for their durability, but even the best appliances need repairs sometimes. If your mixer won't spin or is noisy, the problem may be a faulty worm gear. Here's how to replace it, focusing on the step of removing the drip ring with a screwdriver:
First, make sure you have the right tools. You'll need a flat-blade screwdriver and a light hammer. You may also want to wear safety gloves to protect your hands. Turn off the mixer and unplug it from the power source to ensure your safety.
Locate the drip ring, which is usually made of aluminum. It's important to be gentle during this process to avoid damaging other components. Hold the flat-blade screwdriver firmly and use the edge of the blade to carefully get underneath the drip ring. Gently tap the screwdriver with the hammer to apply force and drive the drip ring off. Be careful not to strike the mixer with excessive force, as this may cause dents or damage to other parts.
Once the drip ring is loosened, you can use your hands or a pair of pliers to carefully lift and remove it. Set the drip ring aside in a safe place to avoid misplacing it, as it will be needed for reassembly later. With the drip ring removed, you can now access the internal components of the mixer, including the worm gear.
This step is crucial in the process of replacing the worm gear. By using a flat-blade screwdriver and a light hammer, you can effectively remove the drip ring without causing damage to the surrounding parts. Remember to work carefully and patiently, as some components may be tight or stubborn to remove. Always refer to a comprehensive repair guide for your specific KitchenAid mixer model to ensure you perform the repair correctly and safely.
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Removing the planetary gear cover
Firstly, using a spudger, gently pry off the aluminium drip ring. You can also use a flat-blade screwdriver and tap it with a light hammer to drive the drip ring off. Next, using a 4 mm pin punch and hammer, hammer the pin until it is dislodged from the planetary gear cover. Now, using a spudger or two flat-blade screwdrivers (one on each side for more leverage), pry the planetary gear cover from the mixer shaft. Be careful not to use a plastic spudger as it is likely to break.
It is important to note that KitchenAid has been contacted by many customers regarding issues with the plastic gearboxes in their mixers. In response, KitchenAid has implemented a change in the manufacturing of the Pro 600 Stand Mixers to a metal gear box. If you have a model with a plastic gearbox, KitchenAid has stated that they will replace it under warranty with a new metal gearbox.
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Using a pin punch and hammer to dislodge the pin
To dislodge the pin from your KitchenAid mixer, you will need a pin punch and a hammer. It is important to use a flat-tipped punch so that you do not ""mushroom" the pin. If the pin has already been mushroomed, you will have to tap it from the opposite side.
If the pin is stuck, you can try placing your mixer in the freezer for several hours before using the pin punch and hammer. This method may cause the metals in contact to contract differently, making it easier to dislodge the pin. You can also try using a heat gun to heat the pin, or applying WD-40.
When using the pin punch and hammer, place the mixer on its side to take the tension off the pin. Hit the pin hard and try it from both sides. You can also try using a lighter hammer, such as a tack hammer, which will allow you to swing faster and create a sharper impact. If the pin still won't come out, you can try drilling it out.
It is important to note that if you damage the pin or the surrounding area, you may need to replace the pin or seek professional repair services.
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Reassembling the device
To reassemble your KitchenAid device, follow the disassembly instructions in reverse order.
First, place the washers on each side of the worm gear. Next, use two flat-blade screwdrivers, one on each side, to pry off the planetary. Using a flathead screwdriver, replace the two 28 mm rear locking screws. Turn your device around and replace the two 28 mm front motor housing screws and the other two 28 mm locking screws. Ensure you do not interchange these screws.
Using a 4 mm pin punch and hammer, insert the pin into the planetary gear cover. Using a spudger, gently pry the planetary gear cover onto the mixer shaft. Finally, using a spudger, snap the aluminium drip ring back into place.
If your device has a plastic gearbox, you may want to consider replacing it with a metal one. KitchenAid has acknowledged the issue with the plastic gearbox and is offering replacements under warranty.
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Frequently asked questions
If your mixer won't spin, makes a lot of noise, or stops spinning altogether, you may need to replace the gear.
KitchenAid offers genuine replacement parts for their mixers, which can be purchased from their website or through authorised retailers. You can also find replacement parts from third-party sellers such as Mendingshed or Amazon.
You will need a flat-blade screwdriver, a hammer, a spudger, and a pin punch.
Yes, it is important to note that there are locking screws with a safety mechanism that should not be interchanged with other screws. Additionally, be careful when removing the motor housing as there may still be wires connected to the base.
