Has Kenmore or Whirlpool ever had a off-balance switch ?....

All the real old Whirlpool made Sears washers had an off balance switch. It was located on the left rear of the washer at about where the left top side of the access panel is. Switch screwed onto the back frame of the washer, visible from the outside of the washer with the panel removed. The arms that operated these switches were bad to get bent and give troubles. The base of the washer would hit the arm and operate the switch when the washer was off balance. When the top cover snubber would wear down, you would get a lot of 
nuisance tripping. The client used the word "Imperial" in describing his washer. This word is from the past. He just may have an off balance switch. Your friend. Larry Brackett