I was just given a Speed Queen washer (Amana version) model # AWM432W. Washer works perfectly but makes a VERY loud, grinding noise during agitation. Is this normal for these machines? Spin cycle is as quiet as any washer I've heard. Other questions include:
1. Is the tub supposed to index with agitation?
2. I can see the brake pads but the tub takes a long time to stop spinning. Is this typical for this machine?
3. What is the approx. age?

sambootoo my amana is LWA65AW, its always growled and very loud during agitation, it was purchased in 1999. Too me its just as noisy as the Magic chef it replaced. It does not index. I am not sure how similar in construction our machines would be.

The first four digits of the serial # will tell you yr and month of manufacture (0001) yr 2000 Jan. These machines chew through brake pads pretty fast; especially the Super capacity deep tub models. It might index slightly during a full load but should stop spinning within 5-7 seconds. You might find a portion of the brake pads on the baseplate. As far as the growling goes, could be grinding gears in tranny, as it is quiet in spin. Hope this helps!!