GE Washer problem

[davidg32]

Our washer is working OK, but whenever it spins it sounds a little different than it used to.  I don't know exactly how to describe it, except it sounds a little "gravelly"...like there's a little grinding there somewhere.  
I know that's not much to go on, but can anyone suggest a starting point to check out?  Any suggestions greatlly appreciated.

Model S3200Y1WW

[JWWebster]

That might be one of the suspension rods are worn to the point that the clutch is touching the floor. If it was me I would remove the front panel and observe the washer during a cycle to determine where the noise is coming from. The top is bolted down. To get the front off insert a putty knife on either edge of the lid (between the top and front)and push downward to release the clips and get that front panel off. Use the handy AJ  guide to assist you. (Click picture to enlarge)

[davidg32]

...If it was me I would remove the front panel and observe the washer during a cycle to determine where the noise is coming from.

Mr. Webster,
I removed the front panel and the top, as per the instructions in the manual, and ran a cycle through.
Everything seems to be working well, but the only problem is that...whenever the drum goes into a spin cycle...it wobbles way more than it used to (and therefore makes a lot more noise.)  I even put it in a spin cycle with no clothes or water in it (to make sure there was not an uneven load), and it still wobbles rather severely.  I looked and reached around underneath and into the mechanisms, but couldn't see or feel anything loose.  Could there be a bearing or something in the transmission that's worn out?
Any suggestions, advice you could offer would be greatly appreciated. 
Also...would it be more cost-effective to just replace the washer rather than have a repairman come work on it?  We're considering our options.

[JWWebster]

Those damper straps might be stretched (click on pic to enlarge)

[davidg32]

Those damper straps might be stretched

Well, they do have a lot of play...they have a slight curve in them, and form soft of a shallow "C" shape.  Are they supposed to be straight and tight?

[JWWebster]

Yep real tight.