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.