Chosen Solution
My friends live in a brand new house. They have had 4 different washers delivered and professionally installed. After the first test load by the installer, the washers begin making a very loud grinding noise. Different makes and models. A plumber has checked the pipes and says nothing is wrong there. The machines have all been top loaders and leveled.
Ms Cooper, Maybe they should try a front load washer, Consumer reports seem to favor front load washers to be quieter and with less vibration when in use.