I have a Whirlpool washing machine (10 years old) that will not complete the wash cycle. It gets stuck right before it starts to spin the water out. It gets stuck in the same spot every time. Playing with the dial used to get it to kick in and finish, but even that was not working. Convinced it was the timer, I replaced it to the tune of $115. It still does the same thing. Needless to say I was very pissed that I dumped a $100 into this thing. Now, I want to figure this thing out. Any ideas?

I have a Whirlpool washing machine (10 years old) that will not complete the wash cycle. It gets stuck right before it starts to spin the water out. It gets stuck in the same spot everytime. Playing with the dial used to get it to kick in and finish, but even that was not working. Convinced it was the timer, I replaced it to the tune of $115. It still does the same thing. Needless to say I was very pissed that I dumped a $100 into this thing. Now, I want to figure this thing out. Any ideas?
Sounds like could be the motor. Check the connections. Also check all the connections to the timer, one may be loose

Before replacing any component, you need to check to see if it is doing its job. I think to go into the spin cycle, the timer has to send power to a solenoid, and then the motor. Before replacing the timer, you need to check to see if the timer is sending power to the solenoid and motor.

To do simple checks like this you do need some tools. A test light, a meter, or a voltage detector might be the best place to start with. I came across the niftiest gadget for trouble shooting, a voltage detector. They work through the insulation of wires. There are several brands. I have a GB Instruments GVD-505A, less than $15 at Home Depot. Touch it to a hot wire, and the end glows red. Find the doodad that lights it on one side, and not the other, and you have the culprit. You do not have to open up housings and expose electrical contacts. You are looking at where your hand is, not where the meter is. Most people are capable of doing repairs and will get it going and not get hurt if they use a little sense. The voltage detector makes it even easier.

The problem was the lid switch! Thanks for the help.