The impeller motor on my '55 Kenmore DW is making a rumbling noise in all cycles. Anybody know what it is?

Well, I'm not an expert, so consider this only an objective opinion. However, when I had similar issues with my Westinghouse, it was because the end bells of the motor were dry, and it had caused the sleeve bearing in the front of the motor to fail. Fortunately, it was a common bearing, and Roger was able to get a sleeve bearing at a local shop for it.

If that's not what it is, then I'd wonder if the impeller itself has become unbalanced somehow. Did you have the motor apart at any time, and/or oil the felt at the ends of the motor?

Like I said, I could be completely off-target, but that would be my first thought...

--Nate

Kevin,

First thing to look at is the impeller. Check it for cracks or missing pieces or something stuck underneath. If damaged, it can spin out of balance and make a rumbling noise.

If it looks okay then I would suspect a worn bushing or bearing.

I had a Westinghouse top-load impeller machine in the early 70's that had a cracked impeller and made a loud rumble. Back then, a new impeller was fairly easy to bome by.

Hope this helps.

Bill

I'll check the impeller and if that's not it I'll find a motor repair shop nearby and have the ol' Delco Remy rebuilt. Thanks for the advice.