just about to order a new water pump and belt, should I replace the snubber ring as well while I'm at it? machine does vibrate pretty bad with just water in the tub during spin. How difficult is it to replace?

James,

If there are white "plastic" shavings on the base of the washer or on the floor under the unit, then yes , you'd want to seriously consider a new snubber, if it's only white powder, then your snubber would be OK.

You, should also check and make sure the unit is level, leg locking nuts are tight to the base assembly and the self levelling rear legs are locked in position(pick up the rear of the machine a few inches and let it fall back down on the floor)

The last thing to check, with the front off and the washer in high spin speed check for excessive "flex" in the base pan,also check for possible cracks in the metal pan(especially the front corner areas).

Good Luck,
:) :) :)