The knob that controls the cycle and machine operation has stopped working. It would push in but just spin and not move the dial to choose a cycle. After messing around with it long enough now it won't push or pull in/out. I can get a new timer mechanism but can't get the knob off to put the new part in. How is the knob removed from the mechanism. The washer is only a couple of years old, is a GE basic no frills model. If it is just a part on the knob mechanism maybe it won't cost me half what I paid for the machine new to get it fixed. Anyone know how to get the knob off?

If it doesn't spin free counterwise, try unscrewing.
To remove mine, I push in and screw out(counterclockwise)

So are you saying I should remove it and then put it back on? Forgive my "stupidity", I'm not a big do it yourselfer, but I'm trying!

It does spin sort of free both ways, but not perfectly smooth, kind of bumpy.

OH wow. I apologize for this. I thought I had asked a question, and had gotten an answer. WOW I'm losing my mind right now! Sorry Stratmando and lecmmonidaf!!

Did you try pushing in and turning?
Or tey pull out and turn if that doesn't work.