I contacted AppliancePartsPros, and they suggested that the problem was the 4 stabilizer rods. Since the rods looked fine, i wanted to check the Balance ring, so the support technician provides service manuals and photographs of the assembly. The Balance ring was fine so i ordered the 4 stabilizer rods they initially recommended, and they showed up at my door IN LESS THAN 24 HOURS!!!! IT took about 10 minutes using a screwdriver for the 3 back cover screws and a spatula to release the top front retaining clips, with the rods requiring no tools themselves to replace. My problem is solved and the washer is running like new!
Thank you for your assistance on this project, and for making customer service a top priority!