OK - got the spanner wrench today and got the nut off (loosens counterclockwise btw). Now I can't get the basket off. I'm looking at the service manual and it talks about expanding the drive block with a wide-blade screwdriver but the figure doesn't show any detail and I'm not sure I'm doing it right. Doesn't budge. Any help would be appreciated.

Hello again:

I bought suspension pads (upper #16 and lower #18) and have read in the service manual that after removing the pump and motor the entire tub assembly lifts out as one piece. I've got the pump/motor off but it seems to me that I have to remove the suspension springs to do this, and maybe some other parts(?). Am I better off just trying to lift the plates with a screwdriver or small crowbar and insert the pads? I'd like to get the tub etc. off if possible for access but don't know if it's worth the trouble. Feel like I'm so close...

Thanks again.