Some Whirlpool built washing machines have an automatic dispenser for fabric softener or bleach. A common question has been...it will not dispense...or it seems to be clogged. This page will give you some info on this type of a dispenser.

The timer sends power to an electrical solenoid, the solenoid pulls up on an plunger rod and the liquid is allowed to flow out of the reservoir and into the wash basket. If the timer is sending power to the solenoid and the solenoid is ok...it is possible the plunger rod, reservoir and hose needs to be cleaned out. This is usually done by removing the power and taking apart the dispenser. Flushing some hot water through the dispenser may also help clean this out.  

#43 - screw, #44 - solenoid, #45 - rod & stopper, #46 - screw, #47 - screw, #48 - bracket, #49 - reservoir

A real life picture of one on a belted WLP washer...