Just jump the safeties out. Safeties are for suckers. 😂 should have called me. I just did a utility room remodel. I’ve rebuilt lots of appliances too.
I saw your remodel pics, elsewhere. Quite a nice job. I think I even commented.
But I don't mind jumping into appliances, as long as there is no real time pressure. (Huh...)
I replaced the thermal fuse in the dryer, about ten years ago. I also replaced a motor shaft coupling in the washing machine, more recently. Also a one way "dog clutch" (or something like that) not too long before the coupling. Wondering what else is likely to break, in a 20+ year-old washer.
The only time we ever called Sears (under warranty/contract) there was a loose connection on a flat connector down near the front.
This is all Kenmore stuff (which is really the same as many other brands, I've noticed.) You probably know all this equipment, well. I, OTOH, learn as I go. Incredible, what you can find on youtube. Some of those folks are really good.