when I turn on the wash cycle the motor just sort of hums

Ill do whatever you say.  I worked electronics in the USAF so I can take measurements, etc w/o killing myself.

I don't know shit about washing machines, but the guys that do are gonna ask for the make and model.  So......

Maytag centinnial commercial technology
Is whats on the bezel

Poke around this SITE.  I've fixed my washer, dryer and dishwasher using it.

ETA:  Somewhere on the machine is a tag with model and serial number.

ETA: Washing Machines

Try   www.fixitnow.com

Stay safe

Find your service tag it will have model number and serial number keep those handy when ordering parts. I always state to keep the serial number handy because there are time when the serial nmber is required, most times not, but better to have it.

When you say it hums, is it say on the spin cycle? Does it fill with water? Normally if the washer does nothing the lid switch is suspect. I am not sure if yours has the locking lid or not. Front loader or top?

This is when model number is helpful.

ok top loader.

If it fills and does nothing then it may be the lid switch. If if does nothing it still may be the lid switch.

Does it sound like the just turning? That is a coupler the nylon tips break. Cheap fix. look locally for appliance repair shop and call them it is a stocked FSP part.
Coupler fix

yes it will fill with water.  but I guess it wont agitate/wash.  but if i move the knob to the rinse cycle it wont drain either.
ETA:  the desription from the forum link you gave me is exactly whats happening.

thanks!