Washing machine my kenmore 80 series washer is making thumping-knocking noises at the end of the spin cycle which are very loud.  I checked and the machine is level. It does this even without cloths in the drum.  I removed the agitator and the drive block doesn't appear to be worn.  What else could be causing the problem? same problem, making a rattling noise as it slows down at end of cycle. bought in sept 2002.

If you balanced the machine, the only other problem could be the load itself. Either the load is too great or if washing a single item its falling to one side, tilting the drum and when spinning it will thump. Try even lodes.

make sure the shiping rod is out it will do that if it,s not out

With the lid open, set the cycle to spin and press the lid switch button with a pen. Wait until the drum gets to full speed and release the lid switch. If the drum makes a knocking/ thumping noise and doesn't stop spinning within 2-3 seconds, the basket drive block is worn and needs to be replaced. (The basket drive block is located on the gearcase drive shaft, under the tub and agitator) If this has been happening for a long time you may need to replace the brake and drive tube assembly as well.

Basket drive block part number is 389140

If that's not it, let me know and I will try to help you further.
Good luck!

You need to replace the drive block and basket drive. You can download a tutorial to get you started at www.shop.washermd.com. The gearcase replacement tutorial will put you in the right direction. Dave

Make sure all springs are still in their place tilt the machine back and look under it and you can see them. 2nd all legs must be level as well as the floor.

Unless your front loader is set firmly on concrete and leveled to perfection, the force of a heavy wash load spinning in excess of 1000rpm will create a bit of vibration and noise.A firm footing is your best defense against to much movement.
Also due to the earlier movements during the spin cycle, the shocks that are used to dampen the spin cycle might have been broken or damaged.
If the problem persists inspite of proper levelling, please do check for the shocks or might have them replaced them for good.

Most washer tubs are suspended by heavy rubber O-rings. These do fail with age so that the tub is not being held centered anymore. I suspect one of them has failed or come off during a severely unbalanced load.

This sounds like the brakes have gotten some residue on them and are grabbing way too hard. The banging is the tub stopping too fast and the torque from this makes the tub bang into the cabinet. Just one bang at the end of a spin. Is this correct???

Yes the brakes are grabbing too hard....I will sometimes lubricate them....Or replace the basket drive assy. You do know how to take the cabinet off i take it??

I replaced the drive block and it solved my problem. (thumping noise at the end of spin cycle) Easy repair. Videos on utube show all the steps.