On Tue, 2 Dec 2008 12:53:35 -0800 (PST), "
wrote:

On Dec 2, 3:23?pm, wrote:
On Mon, 1 Dec 2008 20:51:26 -0600, "HeyBub"
wrote:





Ulysses wrote:
Any opinions on which is better for a new washing machine, belt-drive
or direct-drive? ?In a recent thread we were discussing my old Kenmore
direct-drive washer and how to fix it. ?I determined it needs a new
motor. ?I can get a used motor for $45 but who knows how long that
will last. ?A new motor is about $135 plus shipping. ?Plus another
$20- $30 for new "dogs" and a new coupler. ?A new Kenmore large
capacity washer from Sears is $299. ?The thing is it is a "steel belt
drive" and has a plastic case for the gearbox. ?I was under the
impresson that direct-drive had pretty much replaced belt drive
washers due to lower maintenance and easier repairs. ?There must be
some reason why new washers are belt drive. ?Any reason why a plastic
case on the gearbox is not as good as steel? ?On a direct-drive it
seems like there would be little stress on the seals and bearings but
I'm not so sure about a plastic box on a belt drive.

$150.00 for parts to repair the direct drive failure vs $6.00 for a new
belt.

Hmm. Let me think...

you forgot you still need the motor.

The coupler is about $27 and usually outlasts the belt about 2 or 3 to
1. And the labour involved is not substantially different.- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -

sears service is the most costly way to get any appliance repaired.

most likely other parts will fail so belt doesnt matter much


If they last anything like mine did I have no complaint - that's the
old Kenmore - built by Inglis in Cambridge Ontario. It lasted 27 years
of hard use.

However, Inglis is gone. Owned by Whirlpool. Crap is now built in
Mexico of poor grade scrap - no matter if it is Kenmore, Whirlpool, or
- get this - MAYTAG.. Still a few built in germany (yes, electrolux is
in the same pile). Some frontloaders MAY still be built in Ohio.. Some
GE (crap) may still be american made, who knows.