I have a whirlpool wash machine,the spin cycle does not spin all the time.sometimes i need to lift lid and start spinning it myself.it seems that something is holding it up

sounds as if your timer has gone out of the unit. The timer controls the cycles.

Could just be the brushes on the motor
jb

no the slowing down maybe caused by a sticking clutch and as before the lid switch may also be broken if when you depress it the reason i'll give is if you bump it it sometimes starts up replace the lid switch and once done the circiut will close properly then the delicate cyc should work

Replace the direct drive coupling.

sounds as if perhaps a wire is off on the side of the motor assy, l;ook at he wiring harness, sometimes a "chugging " noise occurs form the motor when one of the harnesses is not attached. and yes its normal to wash with the lid open, not to spin however( thats a saftey issue)

You need the lid switch adjusted or replaced. Easy and inexpensive. With the correct model # I can get you schematic and part #s. Dave www.washermd.com

In most cases, this is caused by a faulty lid switch.

How old and is it on all loads? How fast to stop the machine when you lift the lid? Can you stop the tub while spinning, careful on this one?

Curdy, it almost sounds like your lid switch is loose or fractured and the lid actuator is not making the switch. Check this out first and post back...Catriver.

Popcorn, sounds like you are having trouble with the lid switch. The plastic housing in which the screws hold the switch to the cabinet may have cracked, or came loose. If the lid switch is not making correct contact the result is no spin, no drain. The switch actuator on the lid itself may need adjustment. The lid switch is mounted to the cabinet on the back right side under the consol. The lid switch part number is 8054980. But check the actuator first. Catriver..post back.