We have an old (20 years plus) F&P ECS washing machine model RW52. It's been working fine with no problems until today.
We switched it on, set it to spin, put in the clothes we needed to be spun, and then started it. It starts ok but makes a "graunching" noise while the paddle/drum moves. I guess it could be a bearing, or is it possible that there's something like a button or similar stuck somewhere within that paddle mechanism?
I've removed the back of the washer, the drive belt is fine, and both drum and paddle can be moved ok by hand.

Brian Thorpe, August 2009

Does it get up to full speed on spin & if so is it still noisy when on full spin? If it is then most likely the bearings need replacing. If it shudders & graunches when starting to fill with water as well as on the slow spin then more likely that the electronic motor controller has packed up & will need replacing.

Lincoln Appliance NZ, August 2009