Amana Model Lwa50aw Washer

The Agitator On Our Washing Machine Doesn't Oscillate. Instead, It And The Drum Rotate Together Which Of Course Doesn't Wash The Clothes Very Well.

 

Not to much experance on your machine but sounds like brake assy is stuck or gearcase is bad. I am more leaning to the brake assy. Here is a link to your machine
http://www.searspartsdirect.com/part...50aw&pop=flush
Never had that machine apart

 

Sounds like the break pads on your washer may be broken.. If the tub rotates with the agitator You should remove the front panel (two 5/16 screws at bottom then pull bottom forward to un-clip top) then look at the underside of the white triangular structure in center of machin (the milk-stool) you will see what looks like a round clutch looking assembly just above the large drive pulley in the center of the machine. At three locations there should be small rectangular brake pads sandwiched inside of the brake. They will be secured to the milk stool with two bolts each. Chances are you will see the bolts and only chunks of what are left of the pads. You can replace thes pads (part number R0000014 @ $30 at you local applince parts retailer) by turning the center drive pulley with one hand and holding the transmission assembly with the other, this will drive the pulley upwards opening the brake up and allowing you to insert the pads into the break and bolting them back into position (kind of a hard process but wioth a little effort you can do it). Good luck and remember to unplug your washer before you start putting your hands inside!
BOB

 

If I hold the pulley with one hand and hold the transmission with the other hand, which hand do I use to remove the bolts holding the brake pads? It is a VERY small space to get to the brake pads and next to impossible to get to the rear pad with only the front panel removed. What's the trick?

 

Can't tell you have not even seen your washer in several years. I remember almost impossible to work on.