[j michael]

This washer started damaging clothes a couple of months ago and it is happening more frequently.Items appear to be sliced/ripped.All functions work properly.First problem since purchased new in 1995.
Any suggestions?

[TechnicianBrian]

Take a good look at the agitator for a broken or damaged fin. Even a small tear or cut on the plastic could be a potential sharp point to damage clothes as they are moved across it. A damaged tub ring (the plastic on top of the tub) can also have sharp points that can give the same results.

[j michael]

Originally Posted by TechnicianBrian

Take a good look at the agitator for a broken or damaged fin. Even a small tear or cut on the plastic could be a potential sharp point to damage clothes as they are moved across it. A damaged tub ring (the plastic on top of the tub) can also have sharp points that can give the same results.

No damage I can find. Agitator will move 1/2 inch up and down on the shaft. Would it be possible for clothes to be getting under the agitator?

[TechnicianBrian]

I guess that could happen, but if they are being sliced/ripped as you described, there must be something that is catching the clothes as they are being agitated. Look for anything that may catch on the clothes around the agitator, the tub ring, or on the basket itself.

[j michael]

Originally Posted by TechnicianBrian

I guess that could happen, but if they are being sliced/ripped as you described, there must be something that is catching the clothes as they are being agitated. Look for anything that may catch on the clothes around the agitator, the tub ring, or on the basket itself.

After visually and touch with fingers inspection I rubbed every exposed surface with cotton batting with no results.
Any further advice or sugestions?

[TechnicianBrian]

Then I am at a loss. If something is capable of slicing the clothes, I would expect there to be some sharp edge doing the damage. My only other thoughts are running loads with to little water, or possibly is the damage occurring from the dryer. Other than that, some further observation as to when it happens and what the machine was doing may help track down the failure.