My direct-drive washer agitates just fine. Then when it starts to spin, the trouble starts. It spins fine if completely empty. When it has any weight in it, it starts to spin then stops. If I try it again immediately, nothing happens. But if I wait some time, and spin the dial again, it repeats: starts to spin then stops.

I tried your "sticky" test -- spinning the coupler does spin the basket.

I also tested the spin cycle with the cabinet off: the clutch spins at the start and then stops. Also the motor seems to make a noise like it is trying to get the spin going, but then stops.

I am beginning to think that the spin shuts off because the motor over-heats. But that leaves the question why it is overheating?

I read in a repair manual that if the clutch spins, the problem is not in the gear case/transmission. But what if the clutch starts to spin and then stops? Does that still mean it is not the transmission?

What can I try to locate the problem? The washer is now in the middle of my kitchen with the outside cabinet up on the countertop so I have enough room to get to the sink and stove!

Thank you for your help