How to Fix a KitchenAid Mixer Loose Head

KitchenAid stand mixers are workhorse appliances that can help make baking a breeze. However, over time the head on your KitchenAid mixer may start to wobble and feel loose. This loose connection between the head and the mixer body can affect the mixer’s functionality and create an annoying rattling noise when running. Luckily, a loose KitchenAid mixer head is usually an easy fix.

Why Does The Head Get Loose?

There are a few common reasons why your KitchenAid mixer’s head may start to loosen over time:

• Normal wear and tear – With frequent use, the mechanism that holds the head in place can gradually wear down. The constant motion of the head tilting back and forth during mixing can cause it to loosen slowly.
• Batter buildup – Small bits of sticky batter can get lodged in the head locking mechanism. This prevents the head from locking tightly into place.
• Improper installation – If the head was not correctly installed and tightened down when first assembling the mixer, that improper connection can worsen over time.
• Damage – Dropping the mixer or banging the head against something hard can bend the metal parts that keep the head secured. This damage prevents a tight fit.

How to Fix a Loose KitchenAid Mixer Head

Fixing a loose KitchenAid mixer head is usually a quick and straightforward process. Here are the steps:

1. Unplug the KitchenAid Mixer

Before making any repairs, always make sure to unplug your mixer from the electrical outlet. This prevents accidental activation while you work.

2. Remove the Attachment Hub

The attachment hub is the component on the front of the mixer head where you attach accessories like the dough hook, whisk, or paddle. Grasp the hub and turn it counterclockwise to unscrew and remove it.

3. Clean the Head Locking Mechanism

Check where the head attaches to the top of the mixer body. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any batter buildup that may be interfering with the lock. Scrub to remove gunked on food material.

4. Tighten the Locking Pin

On the top of the mixer body, you’ll notice a vertical locking pin behind the head tilt release lever. Use pliers or an adjustable wrench to grasp and tighten this pin by turning it clockwise. This pin controls the head locking mechanism.

5. Re-seat the Head

With the pin tightened, re-seat the mixer head on top of the body, making sure the attachment hub lines up correctly. Press down firmly to seat the head back into place.

6. Twist the Head Lock Lever

The head lock lever is the switch you use to tilt the mixer head backwards. Twist this lever clockwise as far as it will turn; this engages the locking mechanism fully.

7. Test the Connection

Turn the mixer on at its lowest speed setting. The head should no longer wobble or rattle. Grab the head and try to jiggle it to confirm the looseness is gone. Turn mixer off when done.

8. Replace the Attachment Hub

Screw the attachment hub back onto the front of the mixer head by turning it clockwise. Make sure it is tightened completely.

Preventing Future Loosening

To help prevent a loose head from recurring over time, follow these tips:

• Avoid overloading the mixer – Excessively heavy batches put strain on the head locking mechanism.
• Ensure the head is locked during mixing – Always turn the head lock lever fully clockwise before mixing.
• Take care when tilting the head – Gently tilt the head back; don’t let it drop down forcefully.
• Store mixer properly – Place mixer head down and don’t rest anything on top of it.
• Check mechanism periodically – Every few months, inspect that the head remains locked tightly.

With proper care and periodic maintenance, your KitchenAid stand mixer should provide years of reliable service. But if you notice the head starting to loosen again, simply repeat these steps to get it firmly re-secured.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if tightening the locking pin doesn’t fix the looseness?

• The locking pin may be damaged or worn out. Replacement locking pins are available to purchase online or from KitchenAid. Installing a new pin should solve the issue.

Why does my mixer make a clicking noise when starting?

• If you hear a loud clicking, this usually indicates the gears are not engaging properly, likely because the head is still loose. Turn the machine off and double check that the head is fully locked.

Do I need to call KitchenAid service to fix a loose head?

• Fixing a loose mixer head is a very straightforward DIY job that does not require a repairman. As long as you are comfortable following the steps above, you can easily do it yourself and avoid the cost/hassle of a service call.

Conclusion

A loose KitchenAid mixer head is an annoyance but luckily not a difficult problem to resolve. In most cases, a thorough cleaning and tightening of the locking mechanism will have your mixer running solidly again in no time. Be sure to be gentle when tilting the head, don’t overload batches, and check periodically that the head remains tightly in place. With a little care and maintenance, your KitchenAid mixer will continue whipping up delicious baked treats for years to come!