It appears that the Agitator Dogs or Cam may be worn on our wash maching. The Agitator still agitates but at times makes a noise and appears that it "slips". I'm thinking the Dogs or Cam may be wearing. I've had the agitator out but can't "get to" the Dogs or Cam. There is a "plastic piece" that is on top of the Dogs/Cam Assembly that appears to be some type of spanner nut and also looks like it may require a special tool to remove it. The "plastic piece" is shown on Whirlpools Parts Repair Drawing but no part number is listed for the piece or a tool to remove it. Any help will be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Jerry

Whirlpool washer # LA5558XSNO I have determined that it was leaking due to the tub seal so I took the washer apart. When I got to the outer tub I kinda had to dig the old seal out before I could get the tub off. Now that I have the new seal, I wonder why it has such a wide gap between the top & bottom. Is there something that's supposed to go in there? Which end do I put in "flush" with the tub--the bottom or the top of the new seal? It is obviously not going to seat perfectly with this wide gap. Also would it be a good idea to use some silicon sealant around the new seal? I am assuming the new seal wil expand over time, or something, but it should seal right now.