Top loading machine - Bearing like noise on spin down after spin cycle

Brand: GE
Model Number: GTW330ASK0WW
Main Symptom: Bearing like noise as machine starts to slow down from spin cycle, The noise decreases as tub slows down to a stop. No noise when actually on spin cycle or any other cycle. Under side of machine, belt and floor is covered in a black grease like substance. Can not duplicate noise by spinning tub by hand
What happens & when:

Error Code (if any): none
Parts or tests already tried: Tried hand spinning machine with bottom belt cover and with belt both on and off. Unable to duplicate noise. Bottom smooth pulley has a lot of side to side play.
Photos / video link: Have both photo’s and video but unsure how to post them.

If you’re getting grease or oil under the washer that could be a sign that the gearcase WH03X33729 is on the way out, especially if you have a bearing noise to go along with it.

Is the gear box the same thing as the transmission assembly? Also do you recommend replacing any other parts in the area of the work that will be needed to replace the gear box?

Yeah gearcase and transmission are the same thing here, I’d probably replace the belt while I was at it.

:slightly_smiling_face: Thanks, order has been placed.

Hopefully the agitator bolt lets loose easily as I really fought that bolt on my oldest daughter machine when I replaced the tub seal. Any tricks to removing that bolt if it becomes difficult?

Ok the parts are in and the first load is running. Lets cross our fingers it all works out! I do have a question. There was a metal shield that was on the end of the transmission enclosing the motor but the new factory transmission did not have any holes in it to reinstall it. Does it matter?