Kitchenaid Stand Mixer Leaking Oil? Here’s How To Fix It Yourself In 10 Minutes!

If you’re facing an oil leak in your KitchenAid stand mixer, you’re not alone. This issue is relatively common and can be frustrating, especially if you rely on your mixer for regular baking and cooking tasks. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the causes of oil leaks in KitchenAid stand mixers and provide step-by-step instructions to help you troubleshoot and repair the problem.

Identifying the Source of the Oil Leak

Before you can fix the oil leak, you need to identify where it’s coming from. Here are the most common sources of oil leaks in KitchenAid stand mixers:

1. Gearbox Seal: The gearbox seal is a common culprit for oil leaks. It’s located at the bottom of the mixer, where the motor housing meets the gear housing.

2. Shaft Seal: The shaft seal is another potential source of leaks. It’s located where the beater shaft enters the mixer head.

3. Oil Drain Plug: The oil drain plug is located at the bottom of the mixer. If it’s not properly tightened or damaged, it can cause oil to leak.

Step-by-Step Guide to Repairing the Oil Leak

Once you’ve identified the source of the leak, you can begin the repair process. Here are the steps involved:

1. Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

You’ll need the following tools and materials for the repair:

• Phillips head screwdriver
• Flat head screwdriver
• Socket wrench set
• Oil drain pan
• New gearbox seal (if needed)
• New shaft seal (if needed)
• New oil drain plug (if needed)
• KitchenAid stand mixer oil (available at authorized KitchenAid dealers)

2. Unplug the Mixer and Disconnect the Power Cord

For safety reasons, always unplug the mixer and disconnect the power cord before starting any repairs.

3. Remove the Bottom Cover

Use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the bottom cover in place. Once the screws are removed, carefully lift the bottom cover off the mixer.

4. Locate the Source of the Leak

Inspect the gearbox seal, shaft seal, and oil drain plug for signs of damage or wear. If you see any cracks, tears, or other damage, you’ll need to replace the affected part.

5. Replace the Gearbox Seal (if needed)

If the gearbox seal is damaged, you’ll need to replace it. Here’s how:

1. Use the socket wrench to remove the four bolts that hold the gearbox housing in place.
2. Carefully lift the gearbox housing off the mixer.
3. Remove the old gearbox seal using a flat head screwdriver.
4. Apply a thin layer of KitchenAid stand mixer oil to the new gearbox seal.
5. Carefully install the new gearbox seal in place.
6. Reattach the gearbox housing to the mixer and tighten the four bolts.

6. Replace the Shaft Seal (if needed)

If the shaft seal is damaged, you’ll need to replace it. Here’s how:

1. Use the socket wrench to remove the three bolts that hold the beater shaft in place.
2. Carefully lift the beater shaft out of the mixer head.
3. Remove the old shaft seal using a flat head screwdriver.
4. Apply a thin layer of KitchenAid stand mixer oil to the new shaft seal.
5. Carefully install the new shaft seal in place.
6. Reattach the beater shaft to the mixer head and tighten the three bolts.

7. Replace the Oil Drain Plug (if needed)

If the oil drain plug is damaged or not properly tightened, you’ll need to replace it. Here’s how:

1. Use the socket wrench to remove the oil drain plug.
2. Apply a thin layer of KitchenAid stand mixer oil to the new oil drain plug.
3. Carefully install the new oil drain plug in place.
4. Tighten the oil drain plug until it’s snug.

8. Reattach the Bottom Cover

Once you’ve replaced the damaged parts, reattach the bottom cover to the mixer. Use the Phillips head screwdriver to tighten the screws.

9. Add New Oil to the Mixer

Use the oil drain pan to add new KitchenAid stand mixer oil to the mixer. Refer to your mixer’s manual for the recommended amount of oil.

Tips for Preventing Oil Leaks in the Future

To prevent oil leaks in the future, follow these tips:

• Regularly inspect the gearbox seal, shaft seal, and oil drain plug for signs of damage or wear.
• Tighten the oil drain plug securely after each use.
• Avoid overloading the mixer with heavy ingredients.
• Clean the mixer thoroughly after each use.

Wrapping Up: Enjoying a Leak-Free KitchenAid Stand Mixer Experience

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully troubleshoot and repair the oil leak in your KitchenAid stand mixer. With proper maintenance and care, you can enjoy a leak-free mixing experience and continue creating delicious culinary delights for years to come.

Top Questions Asked

1. Can I use any type of oil in my KitchenAid stand mixer?

No, you should only use KitchenAid stand mixer oil. Other types of oil may not be suitable for the mixer’s internal components and could cause damage.

2. How often should I change the oil in my KitchenAid stand mixer?

The frequency of oil changes depends on how often you use your mixer. If you use it frequently, you should change the oil every six months to a year. If you use it less frequently, you can change the oil every two to three years.

3. What are the signs that my KitchenAid stand mixer needs oil?

If your mixer is making unusual noises, leaking oil, or not performing as well as it used to, it may need oil. You should also check the oil level regularly and add more oil if necessary.