The shift actuator has a small electric motor that is responsible for shifting your washing machine from agitate to spin mode. If the motor or any component on the actuator fails, your washing machine will be stuck in one position or the other, and will fail to allow your machine to operate properly. This style shift actuator fits on Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, Crosley, and Admiral Washers of many different model numbers.  Whirlpool makes 3 styles of shift actuators, and we sell two of them with the third one (the newest) undergoing a major factory recall situation, and is unsafe for usage. To purchase the proper actuator, note the pins on the actuator installed on your washer, if it uses the 3x2 stack configuration, or the 7-pin side by side configuration, as you'll need to purchase the exact one that matches.