MayTag Top Load Washer

My older Maytag top loader is no longer spinning fast enough to remove the excess water. After reading several posts on this washer, I decided to replace the Thrust Bearing Kit and belt. Although the kit came with a thicker washer, I could not get the C clip to slide over the washer. I tried filing down the ends of the C clip and tried using a screwdriver, but I could not do it. Prior to changing the thrust bearing kit, there was a "squeal" sometimes in the wash cycle and when the spin cycle ended (no longer have a squeal). I watch the spin cycle and the agitator moves as if it washing, but the drum is spinning slowly. What I want to understand is, even though I could not get the thicker washer on, and the original washer was the Thin washer, when I manually turn the pully counter clock wise (CCW) should the brake assembly (right above the thrust bearing and spacer) move along with the CCW action. My pulley turns freely when going in the CCW direction, which seems to tell me the brake system is not functioning at all? Thanks.

via MayTag Top Load Washer
by carduf