We spotted plastic in the washed clothes. Stainless drum had made contact with front outer drum. Watched Simon do the tear down on the Whirlpool Duet. Diagnosis? Corroded spider.
Whirlpool shipped new inner drum/spider under lifetime warranty. Ordered new front outer drum from Appliance Parts Pros. Replaced bearings in rear outer tub even though the originals were in good shape (as a precaution). Reassembled washer, tested and returned washer to service.
This is a pretty easy jo if you have some machanical aptitude and can follow direction.
Simon's tutorial was very helpful and kudos to the cameraman who shot a lot of detailed video!
Cost of repair - $$350.00 (with bearings/seal). Cost to replace $1150.00+ (with new pedestal as the old one wouldn't work with new machine). Savings, about $800.00. Bonus, less trash in the landfill!