Just noticed that the top half agitator on Whirlpool Model LSQ8543JQ1 Washer does not rotate very well. Checked the bottom half of the agitator and it functions properly (goes both ways) but the top half of the agitator spins forward intermittently sometimes it doesn't rotate at all. Checked the websites and it could possibly be the "dogs" but I can't seem to be able to pry the top half of the agitator off after taking the fabric softener dispenser off. Tried using a screwdriver to pry and also tried using a rope and 2 by 4 to pop it off, no luck. It would seem to be secured by a locking device of some kind. Any suggestions on how to remove this?

Thanks Alan

Just thought I would answer my own question. I hired a repair man to fix it. Underneath the fabric softener there is a plastic cap covering the hole that houses the bolt. I thought it was part of the agitator. But he just reached in and popped it out. It snaps in with an O-ring seal. He then removed the bolt and the bottom agitator from the washer. Then to replace the dogs he separated the top half from the bottom by pulling it apart. Oh well it works now, just cost me $100 though. I hope this can help someone else.