GE top load Super Capacity 16 cycle washer (one year old)

Try turning the dial v-e-r-y s-l-o-w-l-y to empty the tub. If that does not work, try to remove the dial and insert a broken toothpick in dial stem hole. Replace dial -- object is to get pressure on dial stem to turn the switch knob. You will need to purchase a new dial, obviously.

We have a GE WJRR4170 washer, with the same problem. At first I thought I might have to unscrew the entire control panel just to replace the knob. However, replacing it turns out to be easy.

Right behind the knob, holding it in place, is a nylon/plastic retainer clip. If you pull out the knob (into the "start" position), you can use a flathead screwdriver to push the clip out. The knob then will slide easily off the metal stem. A GE replacement knob costs $9 or $10, depending on the source.

Shame on GE, but the knob is designed terribly. The part of it that engages the dial has eight, flimsy plastic teeth. At any time, four of these are supposed to engage four little slots in the dial. However, the way the knob is designed, there will be a lot of wear and tear on these plastic teeth, so they'll wear out on every single machine.

Good luck to the many people who will have this problem!