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?

Get a Speed Queen commercial washer if you want the toughest of the
tough. I bought some used ones and they went for about ten more years
after the initial 23 years prior to my purchase of them. Extremely east
to maintain, but they will rarely break under home use.

Simple to a fault. Three switches, one for Hot/Warm/Cold water, one for
Normal/Permanent Press/Delicate, and one Push-On. No timer dial.

"http://www.speedqueen.com/route/adv_pdf/am05-204.pdf"

Often available used from industrial and military sources, though they
often sell them in lots.

I'd look at CraigsList.org for used home machines. Usually they sell for
around $50-75 for a good Whirlpool model.