I have a whirlpool which is probably the same as your Sears or similar. Wondered if you found the solution. I have checked the upper control swith located under the button panel for NO normally open and NC normally closed positions all is good. I have no problem with direction so feel the motor relay is good. Have greased it up and all looks good except the shut off at the end. Lookin gfor help too

I took it all apart and there is really only a couple of controlling components. I found that it was not the switch on the top but the faceplate switch that went bad. It stuck in the start position and the relay need to be able to shut off at the right time otherwise the thump. Although every situation is different but this worked for me. best of luck