We have a Kenmore Elite washer. It spins and drains fine with light loads. With heavier loads like bath towels, it does not spin at all. When we remove the towels and break it up into 1/3 loads, it works fine. The washer is about 7 years old and up to now was able to wash these heavy loads.

Check these out: http://dl.dropbox.com/u/8010163/Understanding%20automatic%20washer.pdf
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/8010163/Kenmore_Elite_Calypso%20Washing_Machine.pdf
It sounds like you could have a worn out clutch which has the same lining as a brake shoe. You will have to replace it, or you may just have a worn out belt. Either way you will have to get inside and check it out, which is fairly easy with that model. Be glad it's not a front loader, which is junk. You can fix it and run it for ten more years.

Check these out: http://dl.dropbox.com/u/8010163/Understanding%20automatic%20washer.pdf
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/8010163/Kenmore_Elite_Calypso%20Washing_Machine.pdf
It sounds like you could have a worn out clutch which has the same lining as a brake shoe. You will have to replace it, or you may just have a worn out belt. Either way you will have to get inside and check it out, which is fairly easy with that model. Be glad it's not a front loader, which is junk. You can fix it and run it for ten more years.

Thank you for your advice. I will let you know what results.

Thank-you. We like to hear from people so we can learn, too. It would be a good idea to get a good digital meter so you can check out the solenoids, too.

Just to save some time, how do I get inside it? I do have a multimeter.

Thanks,

Thank-you. We like to hear from people so we can learn, too. It would be a good idea to get a good digital meter so you can check out the solenoids, too.


I do have a multimeter.
But to save time can you tell me how to get inside the machine?

The first thing you do is take a putty knife and push in on each clip on each side of front between the top and bottom sections. You will then be able to lift the top off. After that just remove screws.