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[email protected] clare@snyder.on.ca is offline
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Default Direct Drive vs Belt Drive for New Washer

On Mon, 1 Dec 2008 20:51:26 -0600, "HeyBub"
wrote:

Ulysses wrote:
Any opinions on which is better for a new washing machine, belt-drive
or direct-drive? In a recent thread we were discussing my old Kenmore
direct-drive washer and how to fix it. I determined it needs a new
motor. I can get a used motor for $45 but who knows how long that
will last. A new motor is about $135 plus shipping. Plus another
$20- $30 for new "dogs" and a new coupler. A new Kenmore large
capacity washer from Sears is $299. The thing is it is a "steel belt
drive" and has a plastic case for the gearbox. I was under the
impresson that direct-drive had pretty much replaced belt drive
washers due to lower maintenance and easier repairs. There must be
some reason why new washers are belt drive. Any reason why a plastic
case on the gearbox is not as good as steel? On a direct-drive it
seems like there would be little stress on the seals and bearings but
I'm not so sure about a plastic box on a belt drive.


$150.00 for parts to repair the direct drive failure vs $6.00 for a new
belt.

Hmm. Let me think...

you forgot you still need the motor.

The coupler is about $27 and usually outlasts the belt about 2 or 3 to
1. And the labour involved is not substantially different.