Recently on a large load of clothes, our washer began to smell like burning and we noticed the tub was no longer spinning. I inspected the bottom and noticed on the spin cycle that the belt was just spinning on the brake pulley.

I can spin the tub by hand but it takes a little effort. Is it supposed to spin pretty freely? I was all set to order the Brake Assembly, new bearings, and new belts but now I don't know if its not the Tub Seal/Bearing.

There was a large amount of grease all around the brake and pulley when I pulled it off. Both bearing appeared to be OK and still spin. Does this still sound like a bad brake to you guys?

Belts are in fine shape, no cracks etc.

I can supply some pics if needed. I would really want to avoid replacing unneeded parts.

Thanks for any help!