If you own a Maytag Neptune washing machine you need to be aware that there is a failure waiting to happen. The affected models include the Stacker 2000, MAH3000, MAH4000 and the MAH5500A models.

There is a small solenoid like device that locks the door before the spin cycle located in the door latch assembly. This device is called a wax motor, Maytag part # 12002535 is the redesigned part. It works by heating a ball of wax up which causes the actuator pin to push out and lock the door. It takes around 45 seconds to extend so it is rather slow compared to a typical electromechanical solenoid. The older wax motors have a brown actuator pin while the newer wax motor has a black actuator pin.

The failure is caused by moisture penetrating the wax motor (older design) over time, which causes the electrical resistance to drop to such a value that the small Q6 triac located on the upper control board overheats and shorts out internally. The triac is essentially an electronic switch that is controlled by a low voltage, which is provided ultimately by the processor U1. R11 overheats because the failed Q6 is allowing 120 volts on the triac's center control pin. When this happens, R11 burns and opens up electrically. Sometimes Q6 still looks normal and other times the plastic case ruptures after the failure. However, a burnt R11 is the telltale sign that you have had this failure and the Neptune washer should be left off to prevent further damage to your upper control board.

To inspect your control board you need to do the following:

1. Unplug Neptune's power cord

2. Remove three philips screws along top of washer

3. Pull top of control console towards you while pushing bottom of console away from you.

4. Control board is located behind timer assembly on back panel

5. Inspect the R11 resistor located near the left control board mounting screw

If your R11 is burnt, you will need to replace the wax motor and the control board, which I can list a special Ebay auction for you. All you need is the model & serial number of your Neptune for me to give you a quote. Another option is to replace R11 and Q6 with a repair kit offered by me on Ebay, which also includes the new redesigned Maytag wax motor.

Most repairs are successful. However, some folks may need my STAGE 2 repair kit because their control board sustained deeper damage than just R11 and Q6. If my STAGE 2 repair kit does not work then you will need to replace your control board. Again, I can get you a replacement control board. Repairing your control board is worth a shot because chances are good it will work for you and besides you needed the new wax motor anyway.

Note: If you identify that you have the older brown pin wax motor you need to replace it a.s.a.p. so you don't experience the R11/Q6 failure and risk damaging your upper control board.

Picture of repaired MAH4000 control board

Picture of backside (copper track) of repaired MAH4000 control board

Picture of my Neptune wax motor repair kit. I also include an E-book with lots of information including my phone number for tech support. In addition, I can create an Ebay listing for you for any Maytag Neptune part you may need such a detergent door bezel and lid, newer mold free door boot, etc.

My items for sale on Ebay

Thank you for your time and I hope this guide has helped you with getting your Neptune spinning again! If you have any questions please contact me. Jeffreyson