James T. White,

Thanks for taking the time to answer all my questions. I really
appreciate that.

If you don't mind, I have a few more questions.

1. Which model of Neptune do you have? Mine is MAH5500BWW and it looks
exactly like
http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/produ...APPL&ihtoken=1

1.a Is yours different?

2. When did you purchase the original wash machine? I bought mine in
summer of 2001. I am still evaluating the possibility of replacing the
motor/board and trying estimate how long it will last after the repair.

I have never noticed any mildew on my machine. I have also performed
all the board control tests and my "machine" control board seems to
work fine. It visually looks ok too. As of this writing, on my motor
control board, R34, R35, Q5, IC3, IC18 and the 10Amp fuse are damaged.
IC18 is the part that I can't find (well cheap) :-(

3. Do you know what might cause the "motor" control board to fail?

4. Have you noticed any other difference on your replacement part, such
as board layout, ICs, etc.?

5. I found from other thread that the replacement motor is quieter.
It's true on you case?

Thanks again,
P Boy

P.S. James Sweet, your technical information is much appreciated as
well. I will consider the 600V triac if I get this thing to work again.