Success! You guys are awesome, thank you. With the info you provided and the parts diagram, I found the removable knob cap (never thought to check if it came apart). The tiny clip was wedged inside there so that it didn't rattle. But, now everything is back in its proper order and functioning...
Thanks! Here's the machine and the pieces that were still with it. What I think I need to know is how to get the knob to stay on the end of the shaft so that it can pull it out to start the washer. I can do it manually and the thing runs but I can't figure out how to get the parts to stay...
Question re: Maytag Super Highlander A500... the knob, spring and dial for the timer assembly have come off a working machine... is it an easy fix to get them back on?
Background: I'm renting an apartment that is chock full of vintage everything, in terrific shape, including this old washer...