I have come across a machine that had a stripped plastic bit responsible for changing the cycle on the timer, upon taking the thing apart (the timer) it made like a party favor and blew into a million pieces! I have some clue as to how it's reassembled, but I reckon you washer folk have some experience with these bits, thanks for any or all help, and the following link attempts to showcase the culprit!
If pics are requested I can take the time to do so!