aspasia wrote:
I have to get a new washer. Don't want fancy bells & whistles, just a
washer that does its job; won't crash tomorrow. I don't need extra
capcity.

I looked at a Whirlpool at Sears that I liked, but it's not on special
any more. Salesperson said Kenmore is made by Whirlpool and is on
special.

Questions:

1. If it's made by Whirlpool, why sell it under Sears Kenmore name?
This is a common thing to do in the trade. Companies either buy out each other or sell units in order to hit a wider maket. If you had bought a Whirlpool previously and not liked it, you may not realise and buy the same thing under a different brand. Its a bit like buying a VW car and a Skoda.
2. Is there a difference in quality between W. and K.?
Sometimes the alternative company saves on the casing. This doesn't
always mean it is worse, but facias & switches can make a difference to
the production costs.

3. Sorry I don't have a model number, but the Whirlpool I was
looking at is about $395.

After spending ages on-line trying to get comparative info, I'm more
confused than ever. The web is a top place for info, but sometimes not as accurate as we would like, so best off not to rely on it. I know dealers who state 'its exactly the same model, but different codes'. This can end up a totally different spec as they do produce some models slightly different to comply with being exclusive for a large wholesaler.

Any voice-of-experience/repair professional advice out there?
I agree with the prof on the servicing and I would try to barter a deal on an extended warranty by quoting a net price and getting from a proper dealer. Sounds mad from me as I sell on line, but truth is if you buy from a shop you are more likely to get better after service.

Oh yeah, Whirpool domestic kit has got a lot better over the years and
there are only about 6 pump types for about 90% of all brand types. A
lot of internals are not even made by the brand name and are made in
factories in Italy.

Best of luck

Stu
http://www.cateringappliancesltd.co.uk