On 30 Sep 2006 06:37:03 -0700, wrote:

There is no difference in quality between a company's products marketed
under its own brands and those that are brand-engineered for other
retailers. Sometimes there are minor differences, such as the
functionality of a feature, or the availability of a particular
feature. For example, Whirlpool might have two switches with two
options each that give you four options total (2X2), while Kenmore
might bundle the same functionality into one switch giving you four
options total.

One important note, though, is that part prices can differ between
pure-branded and brand-engineered products. Let me give you an
example. If your Frigidaire front load washer that appears as Kenmore
at Sears, and GE at Home Depot needs repairs, you will pay a higher
price for the part if it has a GE part number as compared to it having
a Frigidaire part number. It is the same part, but the part number
that appears on the box depends on the channel of distribution that it
takes on the way to you. Most people don't know this, and are unable
to do the math before making a purchase, but I would personally stay
away from products made by other companies that are brand-engineered to
the GE nameplate.

Very interesting!

**********OK, now does this apply to a Whirlpool "brand-engineered" to
the Kenmore nameplate? That's what is preoccupying me now.*********

My Maytag ran 11 years w/o coughing, and only called attention to
itself when the lid switch assembly went out. The repairs will cost
$187.00, so I'm figuring I'd better get a new one for -+ $350-400.

When it comes down to it, nobody will ever know how clean your clothes
really are, just by looking at your or your machine, and you probably
won't be able to tell either.

That is not my concern .Durability and freedom from hassles IS my
concerrn. I have light loads, so don't need a workhorse; just
RELIABILITY.

Most people buy way too many bells and
whistles, when all you probably need is perhaps 2 speeds and 2 water
temp options. Otherwise, most machines do pretty much the same thing.

Hah! I was told this years ago by a staff person at the Dept of Water
and Power which had an open house to view machines. Person said
exactly the same thing -- 2 speeds and 2 [or 3] water options. All
the rest is vanity and cuteness.