Water sitting in the drum, an OE error, or a loud hum with no draining? On most LG and Kenmore front-load washers, the cause is a clogged drain filter or a failed drain pump motor. This guide shows you how to diagnose the problem, check the cheap fixes first, and replace the 4681EA2001T drain pump yourself, step by step.
1. Signs your drain pump has failed
- OE (or 0E) error code on the display. This is LG's drain error.
- Water left in the drum at the end of a cycle.
- Clothes come out soaking wet, because the washer won't spin while water is still in the tub.
- The pump hums or buzzes but no water moves. The motor or impeller is jammed or worn.
- The pump is completely silent during the drain stage. The motor coil or wiring has failed.
- Grinding or rattling during draining, from a damaged impeller or debris.
2. Check these first (they're free)
A drain pump only fails after years of use. A blockage is far more common, so rule these out before you buy a part:
| Check | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Drain filter (coin trap) | Behind the small door at the bottom-front of the washer. Coins, hair ties, lint and socks often block it. Clean it and try a Rinse + Spin cycle. |
| Drain hose | Make sure it isn't kinked, crushed behind the washer, or clogged. |
| Standpipe height | The hose shouldn't be pushed more than about 8 in. (20 cm) into the standpipe. The drain point should be no higher than the height your manual allows. |
| Impeller | With the filter removed, shine a flashlight into the opening and turn the impeller with a finger. It should turn freely. Something stuck there can cause a hum and an OE error. |
3. How to test the drain pump
- Listen test: Start a Spin Only cycle. Within about a minute you should hear the pump running and water flowing. A hum with no water means it's jammed or failed. Silence means no power is reaching the pump, or the motor is dead.
- Multimeter test (power off): Unplug the washer and disconnect the 2-wire connector from the pump. Set your meter to ohms (Ω) and measure across the two pump terminals. A low resistance reading means the coil is intact. OL / infinite (an open circuit) means the motor has failed and must be replaced.
- Still not sure? If the coil reads fine, the filter is clear and the impeller turns, but the pump still won't run, the fault may be in the wiring or the control board. Email us before you order and we'll help you narrow it down.
4. Will 4681EA2001T fit my washer?
The SWI 4681EA2001T is a 120V, 60Hz, 85W drain pump motor that moves up to 45 litres per minute. It replaces these part numbers:
4681EA2001T, 4681EA1007D, 4681EA1007G, 4681EA2001D, 4681EA2001N, 4681EA2001U, AP5328388, PS3579318, EAP3579318, 2003273
It fits many LG and Kenmore front-load washers, including WM2101HW, WM3270CW, WM3431HS, WM3770HVA, WM3001HWA, WM8000HVA, WM8000HWA, WM2550HRCA, WM2550HWCA, WM3550HWCA, WM3070HRA and WM4070HVA.
5. Tools and safety
You'll need
- Phillips screwdriver and flat-head screwdriver
- Pliers (needle-nose pliers help with spring hose clamps)
- Nut driver or socket (10 mm on many models)
- Shallow pan, several towels and a bucket
- Flashlight, and a phone camera to photograph the wiring
- Optional: multimeter, work gloves
6. Step-by-step replacement
The exact layout varies slightly by model. On most LG front-loaders, the pump sits at the bottom front and is reached through the lower front panel or from underneath.
Watch the video walkthrough
Prefer reading? Follow the written steps below.
Unplug and shut off the water
Pull the power plug and close the hot and cold water taps. If you can, pull the washer a little away from the wall so you have room to work.
Drain the remaining water
Open the small access door at the bottom-front. Put a shallow pan and towels underneath. Pull out the small drain tube, remove its cap, and let the water drain slowly. Empty the pan as often as needed. Once it stops, unscrew the drain filter counter-clockwise and pull it out. Expect 2–5 gallons in total if the tub was full.
Remove the lower front panel (kick plate)
Remove the screws along the lower front panel (often behind the filter door), then unclip and pull the panel away. On some models you'll reach the pump more easily by carefully tilting the washer back, with a helper, and working from underneath.
Photograph and disconnect the wiring
Take a photo of the pump connections first. Then press the release tab and pull off the wire connector from the pump motor. Don't pull on the wires themselves.
Release the pump assembly
Remove the screws that hold the pump and filter housing to the washer frame. On many models these are 2–3 screws on the front or base. Ease the assembly forward. If you need to remove the hoses, squeeze each spring clamp with pliers, slide it back, and twist the hose off. Keep towels ready, because some water stays in the hoses.
Separate the motor from the housing
The 4681EA2001T is the motor part of the pump. On the bench, remove the screws (usually 3) that hold the motor to the filter housing, then twist or pull the old motor free. Check the housing for debris and wipe it clean.
Fit the new 4681EA2001T motor
Line up the new motor with the housing and make sure the seal or O-ring sits evenly. Fasten it with the same screws. Don't over-tighten. The screws go into plastic and can strip it.
Reinstall and reconnect
Put the assembly back in place and secure it to the frame. Push each hose fully onto its spigot and slide the clamps back over the raised ridge. Reconnect the wire connector until it clicks, and route the wires away from moving parts so they can't vibrate loose.
Refit the filter and panels
Screw the drain filter back in firmly by hand, cap the drain tube, and clip it back in. Refit the lower front panel and close the access door.
7. Test run and troubleshooting
- Turn on the water taps and plug the washer back in.
- Run Rinse + Spin. Watch under the washer for leaks and listen for strong, steady pumping.
- If it's dry and drains properly, run a normal cycle to finish.
| Problem after install | Likely cause / fix |
|---|---|
| Water leaking under the washer | A hose clamp isn't over the ridge, the filter isn't fully tightened, or the motor seal isn't seated evenly. |
| Still showing OE | Check the wire connector is fully clicked in, and the hose isn't kinked or blocked. Clear any debris left in the housing. |
| Pump hums, no flow | Debris is in the impeller cavity, or a hose is blocked. Remove the filter and check. |
| Rattling or vibration | Assembly screws are loose, or wires are touching the frame. Re-secure them. |
OEM-quality replacement for LG and Kenmore front-load washers. 120V, 85W. Backed by our 5-Year Warranty.
View the part →8. FAQ
How long does a washer drain pump last?
Usually many years. Early failures are most often caused by debris, such as coins or hair clips, getting past a filter that isn't cleaned. Cleaning the filter every 1–3 months helps your new pump last.
Can I run the washer with a bad drain pump?
No. The washer will stop with water in the drum and won't spin. Drain it through the filter, then replace the pump.
Do I need to replace the whole pump housing?
Usually not. If the filter housing isn't cracked, replacing the 4681EA2001T motor alone restores draining.
Is this the genuine LG part?
No. SWI parts are aftermarket replacements built to OEM specifications. LG and Kenmore are trademarks of their respective owners, and we use them only to show compatibility.
I'm not sure it's the pump. Can you help?
Yes. Email us.swissha@gmail.com with your washer model number and what's happening, and we'll help you find the right part.
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information. Appliance repair involves electricity and water. If you're not comfortable doing it, contact a qualified technician. Steps can vary by model, so always follow your washer's service manual where it differs.