Maytag A608 Washer has slow agitation

[Ned120]

Washer performs all cycle functions but the agitation seems rather slow and the the spin cycle seems to leave the clothes wetter than in years past.  Is this a common issue in this aging unit? 

Model A608

[jumptrout51]

Check the pump for obstructions and change the belts.

[theoldstoveguy]

Motor rollers for self adjusting are dirty or plugged up. With the front of the washer off the motor should should move towards the transmission about an inch or so & spring back quick and smooth. Try and clean the glides and rollers, I have used WD 40 with the long tube on it. DO NOT LET WD 40 GET ON THE BELT OR MOTOR PULLEY.

[bobdell]

Ned, given the age of your machine, you may also have an upper bearing and transmission issue.  To test, tilt the machine back, disconnect belts and turn transmission pulley.  In agitate direction, the pulley should turn with little resistance moving the agitator back and forth.  Turning the pulley in the other direction should disengage the brake and begin to turn the basket/transmission requiring greater effort, but should by no means be difficult.  If the trans. upper shaft is beginning to seize up, it will be hard to turn in agit. direction and if it is hard to turn in the spin direction, the upper sleeve bearing needs replacing.

[theoldstoveguy]

Motor glide sticking and build up would do both, unlikely to have 2 problems with 1 machine.

[Ned120]

Will be trying all these ideas out shortly and report back.  When the drier went up three weeks ago the laundry started building in piles.  With help from this site it is back in top shape.  Got to get the nod from my wife and see that all the underwear are back in the drawer before dis-assembly can begin.  Thanks to all for ideas. - Ned