This may not apply to any of your noise problems, however I felt it should be noted here, and could save another person a unneccessary servise call, and the associated expense. and as this is where I came first looking for a solution to my problem... My mothers very old Whirlpool Washer(Googled the model number with "zero" results), and not exactly sure just how old it is. LA5530XSNO Whirlpool, and has never had a problem sinse it's birth. Last week all of a sudden very loud inconsistent screeching noises during spin cycle, as if the bearings were shot. More so, the heavey the load... Figured from the sound of things, it was definitly time for a new washer, and quite pleased it had lasted as long as it had.. But, pulled the agitator off anyway, as it was a simple single bolt that gave me no problems.. Well, could not of seen the problem had I not done so, as a 2" drywall screw(obvuiously from a pants pocket)was seated in one of the basket drain holes, and one that was covered by the agitator assembly.. I am surprised it had not created allot of damage, as it moved around depending on the load size, and sinse it was loose in the hole, it was probably was catching and dragging against allot of things, surfaces, etc.. that are designed to be left alone.. ... My mother is beside herself in joy, as she wants this washer to outlive her(and probably another generation).. not sure why. I imagine the answer lies somewhere near the one for the question as to why she still has a cloths line, and rarely uses her shinny new Whirlpool Dryer.