Spin cycle and Burping drain?

Running a used Maytag Performa PAV1000AWW washer.

Problem 1:
The spin cycle doesn't always work.
I find myself reseting the cycle dial just to have the spin cycle work.

Problem 2:
When the spin cycle does work, the water flow doesn't seem "fluid". Instead it surges out the drain pipe.
When the water level gets low, the surging is more obvious and the drain hose will shoot water back like Old Faithful.
So I'm wondering if the water is only being moved by the spin cycle rather than the pump.

I'm drowning in dirty clothes and seeking loose change for the laundry mat.

:)