Kenmore 70 series washer will not stop filling with water..overflows

Try eserviceinfo.com/index as per your 80 series. There are various downloads there that may help access the water level sensor which is most likely the problem.

there is a plastic tube that runs
from the tub to the overflow switch in washer. If this develops a hole in it, air
pressure is not applied to the switch to shut it off. good-day !

Hello Friend, Just replace the water pressure/level switch. Replacement will make it fill correctly and agitate. Happy to help.

I recently had this problem. It was found that the main drive belt broke and the washer would fill but not spin, agitate or drain. I replaced the belt and everything worked again. A defective or disconnected cover switch would also cause the same problem.

sounds like the timer to me

Almost went and bought a switch until I widened by search for "kenmore washer 80 series overflow" and came up with this:
http://www.fixya.com/support/t1206464-kenmore_80_series_overflow

Turns out that a couple weeks ago, I had a really unbalanced load that probably shook off the tubing. Anyhow, saved me a trip to the supply store AND cost. Thanks to the original poster!

if the water was overflowing from the top of the tub it sounds like the pressure hose came loose. tilt the control panel back and you will prob see the hose that connects to the left side (where you adjust the water level) has come loose. cut about 1/4 inch off of it and re-connect it.

yes and also make sure fill tube is not clogged or debreed

This could be from a few things. First test. Turn on the washer to fill it up about 3/4 the way. Now turn it back off. Does the water stop? No? You probably have a bad water valve. Replace it. Yes? Listen for the sounds of running water or look for water on the floor. Do you see/ hear this? Yes? Your pressure hose has probably come off, reattach it. If it does turn off and there is not further sounds or leaking water, you probably need to replace your pressure switch.

How bad is the water overflow. A little puddle on the floor, or it will fill up to the top and be a waterfall until you shut it off?