My moms Admiral AAV7000AWW washer machine recently starting squealing when the drum would start spinning. Then the next time we started it up, the drum filled with water but as soon as the spin cycle was starting it froze up and made this humming/grinding noise, some smoke and a distinct burning smell followed. I have already changed the belt and the motor looks ok but nothing has helped. If i rotate the belt clockwise the drum turns, but if i rotate it counter-clockwise it just spins freely. I’m guessing it might be the transmission or the motor froze up but any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.
You can see if the motor is the problem by running without the belt on. I suspect you are correct about the transmission being the problem, in which case a new or good used model is the best solution.