Seerialmom wrote:
Jack wrote:
Doc wrote:
I'm probably going to have to get another washing machine since my ancient
Hotpoint has munched a seal and lubricant is leaking out.

A local appliance shop has a number of refurb'd top loader washers of
various brands - Roper, Maytag, Kenmore, Kitchenaide, Whirlpool, RCA, GE.
The ones they had on display ranged from decent in appearance to virtually
new looking. Supposedly they've all been gone through. Probably ranging from
5 - 20 years old. Those that had model names visible were Kitchenaide Quiet
Care, Superba. Kenmore Quiet Pak Plus. Whirlpool Ultimate Care Heavy Duty.

What's a good older brand or line within a brand that's known for tough,
dependable construction and also being repair friendly? Any to definitely
avoid? Any features that I should look for? I tend to go for simple, on the
theory that there's less to go wrong.

Thanks for all input.


Of older models I would pick the Maytag, It has the fewer moving parts
than any I know of. Primarily its operation is based on its reversable
motor. Motor turns one direction it washes, motor turns oposite
direction it spins dry. No solenoids or gear shifts, just a motor and
drive shaft..I had a 1950 model that washed weekly for 41 years before
it gave any trouble. Hard to beat that.

41 years!!! Did you enter it into any sweepstakes like "the oldest
appliance still running" where you get a whole new kitchen or sumpin?

No because I knew of some Maytags still going that were older. Heck
today I toast my bread in a two slice ToastMaster that was put in
service in May of 1941 and has toasted an average of two slices
practically everyday since. How many loaves is that? It still looks
new and does a perfect job. But there are older out there.