Just a few minutes ago, I thought I smelled something burning......not
food or anything like that.....more like a faint smell of rubber
burning. At the time I smelled this, I was washing a load of clothes.
Like maybe 15 seconds after I first smelled this odor, my washing
machine starts squealing like crazy. I quickly unplug it.

This washer is a top loading Maytag, model A308/A308S. I bought it new
at least 15 years ago.......it's faithfully served a family of 2 since
then, never needing any repairs or adjustments.

Based upon this sketchy info, would I be better off to buy a new
washing machine, or is there a good chance that a visit by a repairman
would be sufficient and cost effective?
Lee Carkenord