Thread Number: 14051
My Blushing Ladies
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Post# 240943   10/7/2007 at 21:24 (6,035 days old) by dick_s. ()        

I've been working on this project since the latter part of August and arriving home yesterday from a trip to central California to pick up the washer has brought it all together.

I've got my work cut out for me but I've set my B-day which is in a couple of weeks as the deadline to have them washing and drying my button fly 50ls. ((--::

The cabinets are in fabulous condition considering they are 50 years old and the only 2 small knicks are in the bottom edges of the dryer where it must have been tilted forward at some point during transport from St. Louis.

It was a surprise to get the owners manuals to both machines and I just love the hair attachment that came with the dryer.





Post# 240948 , Reply# 1   10/7/2007 at 21:35 (6,035 days old) by dick_s. ()        
The washer

is the one that will be needing the work as it is only a shell at this time, however the "heart" of the machine, the timer, water temp and level controls, sudsaver control, rinse temp control and lights are all in tact.

There is a crack in the plastic console panel under the water level control but I'm not going to be concerned over it.

I almost have all the parts gathered together to go at it.

I can't give enough thanks to all the members who have been so supportive and helpful to me in making this project into a reality, including Brian, Darrel, Patrick, John, Chris and George. Hope I haven't forgotten anyone.


Post# 240950 , Reply# 2   10/7/2007 at 21:39 (6,035 days old) by dick_s. ()        
the rewiring

of the washer timer and controls is going to be my biggest fear and a major feat for me. One of the former owners pulled almost every wire off the machine......And I mean everywhere!

Post# 240951 , Reply# 3   10/7/2007 at 21:43 (6,035 days old) by dick_s. ()        
the dryer

is just fine and all it needs is a 10 ft cord to connect to the 220 in the wash studio.

Brian, thanks for the gentle nudge in going after the dryer. You are right-it's nice to have a couple of matching sets. And I thank you for all your help and support.


Post# 240953 , Reply# 4   10/7/2007 at 21:47 (6,035 days old) by dick_s. ()        
Oh, and for those of you who keep asking for tub shots

well, here's the one for this 57 LK. ((--:: As you might have noticed, another washer buff and I pulled the washer in to the studio so it could be photographed next to the dryer--that was done for all you members who need to see the machines side by side.

Post# 240957 , Reply# 5   10/7/2007 at 22:11 (6,035 days old) by neptunebob (Pittsburgh, PA)        

neptunebob's profile picture
Dick, you could probably find a newer Kenmore that is working and place the workings inside your pink cabinet so that you would not have so much work to do.

Post# 240959 , Reply# 6   10/7/2007 at 22:16 (6,035 days old) by gansky1 (Omaha, The Home of the TV Dinner!)        

gansky1's profile picture
Great pics, Dick. Congrats on a beautiful pair, you've set a goal and I'm sure you'll make that washing purring along in no time. Good luck!

Post# 240966 , Reply# 7   10/7/2007 at 22:30 (6,035 days old) by dick_s. ()        

Thanks Bob, and that is exactly what I'm doing with a very feisty Whirlpool with recirculating lint filer that I have. Guess I should have clarified that the parts I am gathering are pertinent to this 57 like shorter suspension rods, the 3 solenoid 5 temp water inlet valve, the tub light assembly, the old style snubber.

Thanks to Northwesty, I have the suspension rods-Darrel has so kindly loaned me a snubber so I can get the machine going while I'm looking for one.

I've got the suds valve (hopefully in working condition) from a wrecked 62 I found thrown into a flood control channel AND I also think the filter assembly from the 62 is usable, at least at this point.

I'm still searching for the tub light assmbley-I go nuts over having the tub illuminated and I think I've tracked down a 3 sol. water valve. ((--::

NOW, if I could just get a woking diagram or some directions as to how to rewire that god awful timer I'd be in wonderful shape.


Post# 240981 , Reply# 8   10/8/2007 at 06:16 (6,035 days old) by christfr (st louis mo)        

christfr's profile picture
dick those are awesome..

Post# 240991 , Reply# 9   10/8/2007 at 07:34 (6,035 days old) by mayken4now (Panama City, Florida)        

mayken4now's profile picture
Very good. Keep us informed of your progress.

Steve


Post# 240994 , Reply# 10   10/8/2007 at 08:08 (6,035 days old) by coldspot66 (Plymouth, Mass)        

I might have a 3 solenoid valve from a mid 60's LK.

Post# 240995 , Reply# 11   10/8/2007 at 08:10 (6,035 days old) by kenmore58 (Rhode Island)        

kenmore58's profile picture
Dick,

Excellent find. We'll expect pictures of you wearing those 501's standing next to the machines!!!

Ron


Post# 240996 , Reply# 12   10/8/2007 at 08:23 (6,035 days old) by westyslantfront ()        

Hi Dick. Beautiful looking machines. Look forward to seeing them.


Ross


Post# 241000 , Reply# 13   10/8/2007 at 09:00 (6,035 days old) by dick_s. ()        

Thanks Chris and thanks for even considering picking it up for me in St. Louis. My friend who luckily was visiting in Nashville at the time and picked it up said it was a bitch wrestling it up a narrow stairway from the basement of a 1920s bungalow. It's amazing that it got out here without a scratch or ding to the cabinet, other than the 2 small chips at the base edges of the front.

Coldspot 66-I thank you for your post and will keep you in mind, however, I got up this morning to an email that a water valve that will probably fit is in the mail. I will let you know how it turns out.

Ross, I am looking forward to your visit.


Post# 241003 , Reply# 14   10/8/2007 at 09:12 (6,035 days old) by northwesty (Renton, WA)        

Hey Dick it is so awesome to see those two together they really do look great. I can't wait to see the washer put together. It is really a part of history to put together a matched set from different parts of the country, after 50 years.

Good luck with the hooking up wires to the timer, etc. I am guessing there are little letters by the connections on the timer that correspond to the color of wire that go to it. I wonder if the color wire code changed that much over the years. Is it like the 56 at all?

Take care


Post# 241016 , Reply# 15   10/8/2007 at 09:54 (6,035 days old) by dick_s. ()        

Brian-Yes, above all, to think back about the history of these machines. Whenever I run a machine I do admit to daydreaming and wondering what these machines went thru and experienced in their lifetimes before they reached me.

The dryer from St. Louis was obviously mated to a pink LK washer as the washer manual accompanied the dryer manual. The washer must have given out as is usually the rule and they kept the dryer.

As much as I know about the history of the washer - it was used as a cosmetic prop in a pink 50s kitchen and then given to the present owner, a yound married lady who used the cabinet to store bolts of material in.

I've checked out the 56 and all (90 percent) of the wires are white with no markings on them-just plain white wires going all over the place. Brains perceive the same picture differently and mine is just perplexed over this. I can't make heads or tails out of this mess.

I assume I need to buy new wiring and connector ends as all the wiring harnesses I could use from my other machines are threaded into plastic hubs that connect at one point or another.


Post# 241091 , Reply# 16   10/8/2007 at 17:25 (6,034 days old) by rickr (.)        

rickr's profile picture
Beautiful set Dick! Congratulations on bringing these two together. I am sure you can get the washer back together with a parts doner, and some some infomation on the wiring.

Post# 241117 , Reply# 17   10/8/2007 at 19:28 (6,034 days old) by unimatic1140 (Minneapolis)        

unimatic1140's profile picture
Hi Dick, congratulations!!! I love my '57 Ladies as, they are just beautiful.

Next time I'm in Palm Springs I will have to pay you a visit to see them, congratulations!


Post# 241126 , Reply# 18   10/8/2007 at 20:07 (6,034 days old) by jons1077 (Vancouver, Washington, USA)        
Robert,

jons1077's profile picture
Have you had any luck finding a new post for yours? I can't believe I broke it when I was there!!! :-)

Jon


Post# 241136 , Reply# 19   10/8/2007 at 21:02 (6,034 days old) by dick_s. ()        

Hi Robert! Yes, they are beautiful and you are most welcome to visit and see them anytime. I'm hoping to have them washing and drying by the 22nd of this month. I will let you know of my progress. I am very happy to have them.



Post# 241139 , Reply# 20   10/8/2007 at 21:05 (6,034 days old) by appnut (TX)        

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congratulations Dick!! I'm tickled pink for you. Can't wait to see the restoration progrss.

Post# 241304 , Reply# 21   10/9/2007 at 16:38 (6,033 days old) by harvestgold (Deland, Florida )        
Pink ladys

Dick Congrats wow what a find they are just beautiful, I can`t wait to see them hope you can get them running soon talk soon john

Post# 241424 , Reply# 22   10/10/2007 at 00:43 (6,033 days old) by aldspinboy (Philadelphia, Pa)        

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Congradulations! Dick on your find finally i get to say something to you,i told Robert that ive i did'nt run across this web site, i dont think i would have gotten thru cancer &kemo, and your collection i kept looking at when i was ill totally killed the pain kept one of your washers on the screen all the time as well as others many otheres and i will think them as i see these great group of peaple on the site. My aunt maggie had these units and she allowed me to WASH on my on. She had a lot of clothes i would wash all day, the tube lite looks good at night man the first vintage machine i washed in it was old then at that time around 1974 for me. I love Kenmo washers and your collection is great! i hope to visit and talk to u someday P.S. Id talked u up on modern. Thread#13720check it out, Qwestion was that model on modern was the last of the lighted control kenmores to your knowlege thanks. best Darren k I got thru with your enthusiasem for your machines & beauty of them!

Post# 241492 , Reply# 23   10/10/2007 at 09:26 (6,033 days old) by veg-o-matic (Baltimore, Hon!)        

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Wow, very cool set! I love that little insignia on the front.

veg

P.S. Anyone recognize that round-headed shadow in the first pic?


Post# 241512 , Reply# 24   10/10/2007 at 10:46 (6,033 days old) by unimatic1140 (Minneapolis)        

unimatic1140's profile picture
Have you had any luck finding a new post for yours? I can't believe I broke it when I was there!!! :-)

You didn't break it silly!!! Yes Don has an extra '59 Kenmore up in his garage, I just need to find time to get up there and dismantle the machine for parts.


Post# 241622 , Reply# 25   10/10/2007 at 20:00 (6,032 days old) by appnut (TX)        

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Robert, before you dismantle the machine for parts, will you take lots of pics? Thank you.

Post# 241627 , Reply# 26   10/10/2007 at 21:16 (6,032 days old) by laundryshark (Cedar Rapids, Iowa)        
Audio of Two Classic Ladies

Would be neato to collect a good audio of at least two classic Lady K's in action.--Laundry Shark

Post# 241634 , Reply# 27   10/10/2007 at 21:59 (6,032 days old) by dick_s. ()        

Darren-What a great post and yes I have to agree with you that this is one hell of a site. Thanks for your nice comments and I soon will find the time to update my profile and pictures to go with it as the present one is really out of date.
I'm not quite sure how to answer your question about the lighted control panels on Kenmores (which along with tub lights I go nuts over). I know my 68 and 2 early 70 Ks have full flourescent lights across the entire consoles. Any one of them at a time lights up the room. I know that Kenmores has some sort of light set ups on their consoles until the mid 80's maybe even later.

Tomorrow I have most of the day free and I'm attacking that wireless timer. Wish me luck. Then on Saturday I will be doing the transplant. ((--::

Laundry Shark-There will be a vid soon.

Veg-0-matic-I don't see any round headed shadow in the first pic. Now, if you should mean the second pix-that's my friend.


Post# 241726 , Reply# 28   10/11/2007 at 09:26 (6,032 days old) by veg-o-matic (Baltimore, Hon!)        
Whoopsie!

veg-o-matic's profile picture
Forgot how to count. I thought the head belonged to someone I know...

veg


Post# 241727 , Reply# 29   10/11/2007 at 09:33 (6,032 days old) by ~sudsshane ()        
Hi Dick

Congrats on your BEAUTIFUL Lady Kenmore's! That set is on my dream list! Have fun with them!

Shane


Post# 241731 , Reply# 30   10/11/2007 at 09:52 (6,032 days old) by mickeyd (Hamburg NY)        
Dick, they're beautiful

mickeyd's profile picture
but would you please identify that poor orphan in the corner. It looks like a Lady Kenmore Lid, but the drain control looks different, unless part of it is hidden or broken. PLEASE DO TELL !!!!

Post# 241888 , Reply# 31   10/11/2007 at 21:37 (6,031 days old) by dick_s. ()        
I would like some advice

mickeyd-Yes it is a poor orphan-It's a 55 Visa_Matic and it runs fine but it leaks around the pump. Just haven't got to it and it will soon be heading out the door to make room for the 57 LK washer. There's just so many machines I can cram into a 12x12!

Well, today I was reminded that you are never too old to learn and that sometimes you have to slow down and take things at a slower pace. I've got to work on slowing down my level of excitement. I was all set to go out and rewire the timer on the 57. I had convinced myself that it would be a piece of cake and that I'd have it done in no time using the 56 as a general guide. Boy was I wrong. There are no markings at the terminals on the 56 AND the physical location of the terminals are different on both machines.

It wasn't until this afternoon in talking with a friend that the question of hot and neutral leads to various components was brought up and he asked where I got the "harness". I said what harness. I thought I'd just make new wires and "plug and go". ((--::

The wiring schematic was ripped off the back of the machine.

I've never had any experience with wiring or timers. Does any one out there have any thoughts on these two issues?

I've got everything else gathered together to make it go! But I'm stymied on the wiring.



Post# 242107 , Reply# 32   10/12/2007 at 21:12 (6,030 days old) by northwesty (Renton, WA)        

Hi Dick I just sent you an email, but thought I would post some little clues on wiring I can gleam from a manual I have. Does this make sense to folks in the club here who know about Kenmores and is there any other ideas as to what terminal hooks up to what component in the machine

I don't know if these stayed the same year after year or what.

Timer wires:
C to A5 on timer

Two terminals on the timer to which the timer motor leads are connected , these terminals will be either “M-10” and “c-10” or “a-2” and C

Wiring harness:

A5 on timer to M5 on hot water solenoid

Terminal B on the water temperature control switch to the terminal connector on the opposite end of the wire that is connected to terminal A5 on timer

On machines with two speed motor check for continuity between terminal M2L on the motor and terminal connector A2 and terminal M2H on the motor and terminal connector B2

A6 on the timer hooks up to M6 on the agitator control Solenoid, or between C6 on the solenoid and C on the timer

M81 for the extractor solenoid and A1 on the timer

B7 on the timer and M3 on the mixed water Solenoid

A4 on timer and M4 on the two way valve solenoid



Post# 242118 , Reply# 33   10/12/2007 at 23:55 (6,030 days old) by tomturbomatic (Beltsville, MD)        

Congratulations, Dick, on the beautiful Ladies. In one of the very rare magazine advertisements for Kenmore laundry appliances in the 50s, the hair dryer/room heater was a heavily promoted feature in an ad for this pair. I am glad that this accessory was still with your dryer. Will you be able to use your dryer on a 50 amp circuit to benefit from about 8000 watts of drying speed? Have you looked in the back of it yet to see if the third heating element is connected for operation?

One thing that John does to take the electrical stress off the timer contacts is to put a heat relay between the timer and the heaters. That way, when heat is called for, instead of the timer contacts completing the 220 volt circuit, the timer contacts only carry 120 volts (like in a gas dryer)to a solenoid which snaps shut to complete the 220 volt circuit. When the 220 volt circuit is carried by the timer contacts, they can be damaged over time and lose their their ability to respond to the cams in the timer. Another thing I like about the heat relay is that you can hear the closing and opening of the switch to let you know when the heat cycles on and off. I have not explained this very well, but my friend and neighbor John in Beltsville or any number of club members can explain this and show you how to do the wiring.

In the early 60s, there was a television show with the name The Roaring Twenties. It had a neat theme song set against a background of pictures and snippets of film from that time. At the very end of the song and in perfect synchronization with the music, a big car from the time zoomed up a ramp and jumped a line of cars. The best part was the very hard landing. It just had to have killed the suspension. Anyway, while that was my favorite part, my brother watched it for the actress Dorothy Provine who played the flapper character Pinky Pinkham. You will need to come up with similar color-inspired names for your pink ladies unless you chose someting euphoneous based on Kenmore like Karen Kenmore. That's my combo's name. Does anyone else give names to some of their appliances or do I need make an appointment to discuss adjusting medications?

I hope that you meet your timeline for their restoration and have lots of fun with them for a long time. Tom


Post# 242164 , Reply# 34   10/13/2007 at 07:58 (6,030 days old) by dick_s. ()        
Learning lesson on timer wiring

Brian-Thank you so much for your informative post. It's a start in the right direction but I've also got the issue of the wiring harness. Can I find an old one that will work or do I look for directions on putting one together from scratch. I don't understand about the neutral leads and if and how they all join into a central neutral lead. I've never had experience in this area. I certainly don't want to blow it or myself up!

Tom-Thanks for the info on the high wattage info on the dryer. Yes, in looking at the owners manual I did notice that the high temp wattage was rated at I believe 8960 watts. I didn't believe it. I only use the dryers on low heat or air for fluffing and lint removal so I appreciate your input. It's something I certainly will check on and want disconnected.

The hair dryer/room heater was a real bonus and has already been a topic of conversation among friends who have viewed the set. They think it's awesome and so do I.

Yes, I do remember the Roaring Twenties and I also have attached names to some of my vehicles and a few of my washers, not all of them. The 58 I call Dorothy after my aunt who had the new 58LK which I loved to wash in. I also named my 55 Chevy after her as her 55 gray and pink one was always the inspiration which finally drove me to buy one back in the 80s.

Today the "guts" are put in the 57LK and at that point I will have to stop until I find out what I'm doing with the timer wiring. I've already accepted the fact that there's no way I'll meet my Oct. 22nd deadline on having the machine washing 50ls! ((--::

Thanks again Tom for your input. Much appreciated. And Brian, I'll drop you a line soon.





Post# 242197 , Reply# 35   10/13/2007 at 14:16 (6,029 days old) by tomturbomatic (Beltsville, MD)        

Dick, my parents bought a 58 Lady. It had the green porcelain cabinet. The color was on closeout because it was not as popular as pink & yellow. We were the first with a Wash 'n Wear cycle with the thirsty cool down.

On a standard 30 amp circuit with only a maximun timer setting of 60 minutes, Consumer Reports downrated a similar Kenmore dryer because it could not always dry a load in 60 minutes!!? If you ever have to disassemble the dryer, we can show you where we glued strips of felt from post 1966 WP drum seals against the bulkhead using Maytag high temperature adhesive to lessen the amount of heated air sneaking behind the drum and going out the exhaust without actually being pulled through the tumbling fabrics. This really increases the efficiency of the dryer and should give noticeably faster drying on the 30 amp wattage.

Short of having a genie or appliance genious come do the wiring for you, what would help? We have the same machine. Would some sort of pictures and labels of the wires be of any use? I could not do this because I do not have the camera, but I might be able to get Jason's help with photography and John's knowledge of the machine to help you. As little as these machines changed internally, I think that if you could get a hold of a Kenmore or WP wiring harness it would not be too hard to do beyond the timer since the wires were generally of specific lengths so that they hang down just about where they should connect. Tom


Post# 242221 , Reply# 36   10/13/2007 at 16:42 (6,029 days old) by northwesty (Renton, WA)        
Here is another chart

If you can make any sense of it

Post# 242235 , Reply# 37   10/13/2007 at 17:52 (6,029 days old) by funguy10 ()        

Could you post the washer and dryer manuals online? How about videos? I've wanted to see these machines in action!

Post# 242252 , Reply# 38   10/13/2007 at 20:13 (6,029 days old) by washertalk ()        

Beautiful Set Dick!

Good luck on getting them fully functional. It sounds like you have a good plan.

On occasion I have been able to restore a favored machine from parts from like 4 or 5 other machines or sources. It is like a mystery or quest and what a feeling of satisfaction when the machine is done and complete.

The hair dryer attachment is certainly unique. I would not have believed that manufacturers had actually tried to sell that attachment without seeing it.


Post# 242292 , Reply# 39   10/13/2007 at 23:52 (6,029 days old) by dick_s. ()        
Brian and Tom

Wow, to get to the computer this evening and find your posts. You both are really great in providing so much help to me in this wiring project. It's really a comfort. I found myself asking everyone I met this morning in town if they knew anything about timers and wiring harnesses. I'm sure a couple of them thought I was crazy. I know I can do this if I just understand what I'm doing. The biggest issue is grasping the concept of the harness and the neutral wires and finding a harness that will work on the 57. I need a harness that will have enough leads to cover all the components in the console-the 5 temp water control, infinite water level control, the sudsaver, and the warm/cold rinse and the flourescent lighting and kick off switch. I can't find a replacement germicidal lamp assembly and am blowing that off. Below the lid-the tub light-sudsaver, 3 solenoid water valve-kickoff switch, wig wag and motor. I hope I haven't forgotten any. Oh, and the lid swich.

I checked on the Whirly I gutted today and from what I can deduce from all I've learned about wiring so far-there are not nearly enough wires to connect to all areas and none of the K's I have come close to having enough wires. Can I make a harness? I don't know. I'm fairly smart if I understand what I'm doing.

As of this posting the 57 is almost complete with everything it needs to run except the wiring! ((--:: And Brian, your suspension arms worked out just great. Oh, the only thing it doesn't have at this point is a gleaming white tub as I can't rock (even standing in it didn't do the trick) the tub off the center post and my blow torch caught fire before I had to chance to really heat the crap out of it. Will buy a new torch tomorrow morning and plan to have the tub changed out by tomorrow evening. ((--::

Thanks guys for all your help. You don't know how much it all is appreciated and I'll probably need a bit more before this is all over with. ((--::

Tom-My 58 is my favorite machine. I almost covet it and don't want to use it and wear it out (however, it is used weekly for at least one load). The only difference between my aunt's and mine is that mine never gets Tide suds locks like hers did all the time! She used her Tide quite freely. And the green was my favorite color out of the three. What a surprise to hear you say that it was so unpopular.

Thanks again guys

Oh and washertalk- you are oh so right in what you write about the excitement there is in getting parts from this machine and that machine and creating such a great new wonderful working 50 year old washer. What a charge.





Post# 242307 , Reply# 40   10/14/2007 at 04:07 (6,029 days old) by panthera (Rocky Mountains)        
Dick,

panthera's profile picture
Dick,
One of my jobs as lowest on the shop totem pole was rewiring washers and such. Maybe some of the things I learned back then well help you out a bit.

1) It never hurts to check twice that the power is off. Not just because you can kill yourself, but because you can easily destroy a hard to find part.

2) A cheap VOM (I would plead for a digital one which beeps or whistles at you when you have a connection, 'bout 25$ at Homo Depot) will make your life enormously easier by saving lots of stooping, bending and such.

3)It pays to take pictures, pictures, pictures. Back then, digital cameras weren't realistic so my boss paid for Poloroid instant photography. Boy, was it worth it. I still make lots of sketches and write things down...if you remember, back in 2006 that really helped when my niece let her daughter pull all the wires out of the timer block on the Maytag I was fixing...and boy was I glad I had locked away the machine's 120V plug...). A side bonus of those pictures: Someone here has always worked on the same or a similar machine and can usually diagnose the problem for you from a picture very quickly.

4) Always test one run of new wiring at a time.
With a VOM, you can do most of that testing very fast and easily. Just never wire up more than one functional group at a time.
A functional group would be, for instance WATER: Timer block, water pressure sensor, water level switch, water temperature, solenoids. Definitely the scariest of all the wiring in the washer...but also easy to work out logically. If it would help, be glad to describe this group in detail with wiring in another post...unless I am so confusing here you'd rather eat broken glass.

The whole neutral, grounded and live thing. Sometimes "live" is called "hot". Sometimes it is called "potential" or 120V or "phase". Same with neutral; sometimes it is called "return" or simply "N". Some folks get upset when we don't use the absolutely proper term for things, but I suggest you stick with whatever Whirlpool called them...

Here's a quick run down on the whole neutral thingee for you.
Let's start at the beginning.
When power comes into the machine, there are three wires. One is to ground all the metal parts of the machine. This one may be a floppy old bare or green wire running from a screw on the frame to a cold-water pipe clamp, or one of the three from the three prong plug. Some older machines have only a two-prong plug, never mind for now. We can ignore this grounding one for now (but be sure it is in place before the machine goes into use!).
The second wire is called the "live" wire and this is the one which all the switches and pressure valves, etc. get to play with. It is usually black and often called "L1".

The third wire is called the "neutral" wire and this one will, in the end, be the easiest for you to deal with.

In order for the timer, the water pressure valve, the water temperature switch, the light switch, etc. to control all those things, you only need to switch the power on and off at one of the two wires involved. Oh, I know - there are like a billion wires going to and from everything...but in every case, the actual switching on and off is not as complicated as you might think. All that really gets turned on or off as the control wire is that live or hot or phase or L1 wire...

The neutral wires, because they do not get switched off and on, are usually grouped together and all hooked up together at points through the washer. Some machines, Maytags for instance, did this on the timer block - it made things pretty easy. Others do this at various places you might not think of.

Some German machines used the water solenoid as a good junction for all those neutrals...why not? There was room and it was roughly in the middle of everything, which saved on wire. Regardless...those neutrals are not mysterious or problematic. In wiring things up, they are just like any other wires.
Here's an example:
If your look at the water solenoid valves, you will see that there is one less wire going to them from the harness than you would expect. If there are two solenoids, you will find three, not four wires - two control wires - one for hot, one for cold and the third for neutral which is attached to both solenoids. If there are three solenoids, you will find three control wires and still just one neutral.

You will probably end up having to get wires from several harnesses to build your own wiring. The whole point of a "harness" is just economy. As long as the wires are mechanically and electrically safe, you can run them one-by-one if you have to (and it sounds like you may have to). No big deal. You will probably find that there are at least three different kinds of connector in that machine. If you absolutely have to make a wire from scratch, use a 14AWG appliance wire, be sure the role says: “UL1230 - Complies with UL style 1230 and CSA style AWM Type 1” (you can buy these at Radio Shack or Homo Depot, ask for help to be sure you get the right stuff) and be sure to read up on how to crimp the connectors on right. It isn't hard, but most newbies crimp the hell out of them and then wonder why they break...(The anal retentive crowd would now suggest appropriate colors and a range of wires from 12AWG to 18. Ain't necessary, don't trouble yourself. I really, really, hope you are able to find wires from other machines to do this. I don't recommend splicing wires together, and hope to hell you don't have to make up any yourself, but you may have no choice when you get to that motor.)

I think it would help a lot if you posted some photos of the various control devices and their mechanisms. As folks have pointed out, nothing has really changed here in the last fifty years or so and someone can probably post a picture or diagram right back showing how these are wired together.


Post# 242344 , Reply# 41   10/14/2007 at 10:38 (6,029 days old) by appnut (TX)        

appnut's profile picture
Dick, when ya can, I'd love to see pics of the 58 Lady. Off the top of my head, I can't remember what that style looks like.

Post# 242388 , Reply# 42   10/14/2007 at 19:16 (6,028 days old) by dick_s. ()        
Pix of components

Panthera- I read and reread your post and some things are beginning to make sense. If I understand correctly, the neutral leads to the components are grouped together and joined at a central point. The hot wires go to the timer #'s and the neutrals collectively go to one contact on the timer. Am I getting the jist?

I understand the common ground and the hot wires, at least I believe I do. On a component with two contacts, one for hot and one for neutral-the wires can be connected to either one.

This pic shows the flourescent light, the 5 temp water control and on the right of the timer the infinite water control.

The timer was made by the Soreng Company- Model 104-57



Post# 242389 , Reply# 43   10/14/2007 at 19:18 (6,028 days old) by dick_s. ()        
The other components

This pic shows the sudsaver, the warm/cold rinse, and the ballast/junction boxes for the flourescent light. Oh, and the end of cycle bell.

Post# 242403 , Reply# 44   10/14/2007 at 20:47 (6,028 days old) by volvoguy87 (Cincinnati, OH)        
Wiring and labeling.

volvoguy87's profile picture
The last time I had to take anything apart it was the gauge cluster of my Volvo. Did you know a speedometer can take up an entire kitchen table whan it's in pieces? <:-D)

Take some adheasive labels and attach them to both ends of your pieces of wires (just keep tham away from hot things). Write on both sides of the flag, on both ends of the wire, what the wire connects to at the other end. Trust me, you will be glad you did when you are connecting one end, and you can read what the other end is attached to without having to stop and double chack your notes. Also, check out Robert's restoration of his '57. The pictures are great and maybe they could be of help.

Good luck all the 57 Lady needs is fins,
Dave


Post# 242424 , Reply# 45   10/14/2007 at 22:53 (6,028 days old) by dick_s. ()        

Thanks for the post Dave and yes, I did just that (label the wires) when I had to disconnect all wires from the timer of the 60 Kenmore when I sent the timer out for repair. I sure wished that was all I had to do with the 57. Today I got a bit disgruntled and asked myself why I took on such a project. Then all I had to do was look at them and I knew why.

I did use Robert's 57 resto as a guide when I gutted and completely revamped my 56 Kenmore. It was ever so useful. BUT there wasn't an issue about rewiring a wireless timer discussed. I just have to look at those pictures with all those wires wormin' around and I start to sweat! ((--::


Post# 242428 , Reply# 46   10/14/2007 at 23:49 (6,028 days old) by panthera (Rocky Mountains)        
Hi Dick,

panthera's profile picture
Basically: Yup.
You are right that in a any case where there are only two wires, like to a water valve, it doesn't matter electrically. Where, however, the manufacturer has gone to the trouble to indicate a preference, then follow it. Condensors, for instance.

Thanks for the pictures. I can see why you took this one on, she will be beautiful.

Two suggestions before you get started.
1) I started wrapping PVC tape around existing connectors a while back. Remove them, gently wrap them and replace them. New connectors I install in areas like that are always insulated.
Maybe I am paranoid, but it just seems like common sense with all those metal components lying around.
2) I suggest you find out, if you haven't already, what sort of condition all the switches and pressure valves, etc. are in before you start rewiring. That pressure valve, for instance can have a tube hooked up to it. You blow into it until it clicks (may have a few clicks available, or just one, I am not an expert on this model. If you blow till it clicks then cover the tube with your thumb...does it lose air quickly or stay clicked? Ideally, it should stay clicked indefinitely. If it reclicks quickly, then you have a blown diaphram (or leaky thumbs :-(((!

Are you comfortable with testing switches using a VOM? If not, let us know, be happy to explain how I do it. Saves a whale of a lot of time to be wiring something you know is good instead of working your ass off and it turns out the part is bad.

Oh, one thing. Never run the wires tightly. Always lay the bundles or separate wires so they won't get sliced or diced, burnt or wet...but leave enough "play" that you can field test a part or remove it without having to stretch or disconnect the other end of the wire(s). I know it was common practice in the 50's to just tape wires to the metal to keep them out of the way, but I wouldn't today. Thanks to home made PCs and modding, you can get those little cable holders, wiring tubes, etc, et al. from PC shops. Makes our lives much easier and the job much cleaner.


Post# 242593 , Reply# 47   10/15/2007 at 21:47 (6,027 days old) by dick_s. ()        
Late 50's LK wiring harness

Would anyone know where I might start looking for a late 50s Kenmore wiring harness for the 57LK. This harness would have to be large enough to run all the bells and whistles on the machine. With the help and advice that everyone has been giving me I believe I could get this accomplished if I had a harness to work with.

As of last Saturday evening, the machine is fully back together in all respects except the wiring.



Post# 242602 , Reply# 48   10/15/2007 at 22:29 (6,027 days old) by panthera (Rocky Mountains)        
Neat!

panthera's profile picture
That went fast! Good for you!
You can search ebay and the internet. Probably you will find stuff like in the link below. I don't know...you would have to redo every single connector...
But, Dick, if I am not mistaken...almost all the wiring you need to do is going to be of switches and parts which are very close to each other. Doesn't somebody pre-package that sort of wire, or am I thinking of the 1970's again...you know, lengths of a few inches out to 18 or so with insulated connectors at both ends. If someone still does that, it would solve like 90% of your problem.


CLICK HERE TO GO TO panthera's LINK on eBay


Post# 242643 , Reply# 49   10/16/2007 at 02:07 (6,027 days old) by aldspinboy (Philadelphia, Pa)        

aldspinboy's profile picture
Dick! keep the faith on your wiring project i know it will be beautiful at the end!! Darren k

Post# 244954 , Reply# 50   10/28/2007 at 10:51 (6,015 days old) by dick_s. ()        
And the saga continues

I am still working on the wiring harness sit. for the washer and will keep everyone updated.

What I would like



Post# 244983 , Reply# 51   10/28/2007 at 14:42 (6,014 days old) by frontaloadotmy (the cool gay realm)        
what would you like ?

Please, tell us!!!!
Haven't you got that running yet? Hell by the time I left
I had it so all you had to do was plug it in and select the setting and push in the timer!!! Some peepull!!!!


Post# 245624 , Reply# 52   11/1/2007 at 10:25 (6,011 days old) by pdub (Portland, Oregon)        
So......

pdub's profile picture
Dick, What's the latest on your pink LK set?

Did you get the help you needed on figuring out the wiring?

I'm sure Darrel probably had them running but then pulled one wire just before he left so you'd have something to ponder! (ha-ha)

We're ready for an update!


Post# 247809 , Reply# 53   11/11/2007 at 19:37 (6,000 days old) by dick_s. ()        
A temporary set back

I've held off posting as I thought I'd wait till I had both machines up and running. I've got good and bad news as of this Sunday evening.
As for the bad news, Ihought I'd surprise everyone with word that I tore two machines down and sat at table for a day and a half and MADE a wiring harness for the washer. I was meticulous in detail and made three and four checks before I acted on a splice, etc. I used 14 gauge wire for the main leads and wire I took off of some of my parts' machines for all others.

Well, a friend and I wired up the machine and I put power to it yesterday and all I got to run were the tub light and the flouresent panel light. I rechecked the wiring leads to various components and found that somehow numerous leads had been placed on the wrong contacts. I ripped them all off and started over again. Well, the machine fired up after that BUT, I could smell the pungent, acrid odor of burning wires so......I shut it off, covered it up and will pick up on it next week.
Was a bit frustrated yesterday as I took so much time and dealt with only one wire at a time that I could have made a mistake in the harness. The upswing is that I feel proud of myself that I could take on such a feat as making a harness from scratch.


Post# 247810 , Reply# 54   11/11/2007 at 19:41 (6,000 days old) by dick_s. ()        
Now for the good news ((--::

After putting on a new 10 foot power cord to reach the 220 power supply the dryer wouldn't run. I had to stop working on it as last weekend I had company coming out of the rafters! I couldn't wait till the following week to check it out further.

Well, it turned out to be a bad 30 amp fuse and now it is faboo!


Post# 247812 , Reply# 55   11/11/2007 at 19:44 (6,000 days old) by dick_s. ()        

And.....I replaced the lights.

I won't be running it all that often as I don't want to buy my electric utility company! ((--:: But.....once in awhile I will enjoy watching and listening to it dry a load.


Post# 247816 , Reply# 56   11/11/2007 at 20:30 (6,000 days old) by swestoyz (Cedar Falls, IA)        

swestoyz's profile picture
Glad to hear about the update. Good news on the dryer - and I'm sure after a bit of hunting around you'll find the problem in no time with the washer harness. You are doing a great job - keep it up! :-)

Ben


Post# 247842 , Reply# 57   11/11/2007 at 21:44 (6,000 days old) by appnut (TX)        

appnut's profile picture
Dick, I'm proud of ya!! You've done terrific. the wiring harness will come to you!!

Post# 247848 , Reply# 58   11/11/2007 at 23:21 (6,000 days old) by frontaloadotmy (the cool gay realm)        
Such a Beautiful

Dryer. And when not drying clothes, you may use it to keep the Laundry Studio Warm as toast.

Post# 247888 , Reply# 59   11/12/2007 at 08:39 (6,000 days old) by northwesty (Renton, WA)        

Good going Dick, sounds like your are getting sooo close!

Post# 247904 , Reply# 60   11/12/2007 at 09:37 (6,000 days old) by rickr (.)        

rickr's profile picture
Way to go Dick! Am sure you will have that Lady whipped into shape real soon!

Sometimes it helps to walk away for awhile on a job such as this one. You have time to think things over, and you have a fresh start when you pick it up again.


Post# 248048 , Reply# 61   11/12/2007 at 21:00 (5,999 days old) by dick_s. ()        
Hold the faith guys,

Just discovered this afternoon that the acrid burning smell is coming from the motor which gets almost too hot to touch after running for 30-45 seconds. Might have to wait Sat. morning to replace. Can't wait. Will let you all know. My homemade wiring harness might still work fine. ((--::
Dick


Post# 248975 , Reply# 62   11/18/2007 at 23:21 (5,993 days old) by dick_s. ()        
Maiden wash load

Well, I finally did it! I got the 57 washer up and running and she runs beautifully. Does everything she is supposed to do and I must pat myself on the back because she's running with a wiring harness I made for her with my own little hands. I'm getting pretty proficient here in my old age I must say!


Post# 248979 , Reply# 63   11/18/2007 at 23:28 (5,993 days old) by dick_s. ()        
The burning electrical wire

odor I was smelling turned out to be the motor as I suspected. Just plucked one from another machine and voila! Another wonderful Kenmore is back to life.

Next on my list is to get the 50 bolt down going. I had started on it tearing it all apart and then kind of left it and moved on to other things.


Post# 248985 , Reply# 64   11/18/2007 at 23:43 (5,993 days old) by appnut (TX)        

appnut's profile picture
Dick, I am soo proud of you. All done with your own hands!! I knew you could do it!! (But I"m still in awe). Bob

Post# 248988 , Reply# 65   11/18/2007 at 23:59 (5,993 days old) by gansky1 (Omaha, The Home of the TV Dinner!)        
pat, pat, pat

gansky1's profile picture
We knew you could do it - just takes patience and persistence! Awesome work, you must be very proud of yourself, congrats on another beautiful Kenmore up and running again. That is a truly beautiful set, Dick.

Post# 248992 , Reply# 66   11/19/2007 at 00:17 (5,993 days old) by frontaloadotmy (the cool gay realm)        
Arint You Clever !!!!

Now you better start saving them suds. Summers just around the
corner and you know how that well starts to drying up!!!!


Post# 248993 , Reply# 67   11/19/2007 at 00:19 (5,993 days old) by appnut (TX)        

appnut's profile picture
I'll beat Toggles here, patting in public, humph!!

Post# 249004 , Reply# 68   11/19/2007 at 01:45 (5,993 days old) by powerfin64 (Yakima, Washington)        
Fantastic!

powerfin64's profile picture
A another true antique washer is back to life and running at full potential again! She is a beauty! Any chance of a video??

Rich


Post# 249005 , Reply# 69   11/19/2007 at 01:54 (5,993 days old) by panthera (Rocky Mountains)        
Yay!

panthera's profile picture
And another beautiful machine arises from the grave!
Way to go!


Post# 249092 , Reply# 70   11/19/2007 at 12:02 (5,992 days old) by swestoyz (Cedar Falls, IA)        
Yeah!

swestoyz's profile picture
Such great action shots too - it is so meaningful when you know you did such a good job. We are all very proud of you Dick. What a great job well done!

Ben


Post# 249095 , Reply# 71   11/19/2007 at 12:14 (5,992 days old) by pdub (Portland, Oregon)        

pdub's profile picture
I'm very happy for you Dick. I know you went through a lot to get this machine going again. I'm proud of you and I know how great you feel about it. I can't wait to see these beauties in person. Congratulations again!

Patrick


Post# 249105 , Reply# 72   11/19/2007 at 13:25 (5,992 days old) by rickr (.)        

rickr's profile picture
Way to go Dick!!
Congratulations on a job well done!

When you have the time, please post some detailed pixs of your 57 KM restoration. Will look forward to the pixs and the details of making up the wiring harness.


Post# 249108 , Reply# 73   11/19/2007 at 14:34 (5,992 days old) by funguy10 ()        

How about a full cycle vid of my favorite vintage washer? Of course I mean this washer.

Post# 249159 , Reply# 74   11/19/2007 at 21:02 (5,992 days old) by dick_s. ()        
A forthcoming video

Thanks guys for all your nice comments and by all means YES, a video will be posted shortly. I don't know if I can get it done by Turkey day but shortly after all the hullabaloo is over and everyone leaves I will get to it.

The washer was in the rinse mode when I took this shot and the recirc lint filter was already pretty clogged with lint from the shop towels. It really started to spray all over before the end of the two minute rinse mode.


Post# 249173 , Reply# 75   11/19/2007 at 21:56 (5,992 days old) by appnut (TX)        

appnut's profile picture
Like a waterfall filer should!!

Post# 249186 , Reply# 76   11/20/2007 at 00:49 (5,992 days old) by 70series ( Connecticut.)        

Congrats on getting your resto completed! I love your videos and I can't wait for this one.

Have a good one,
James


Post# 249204 , Reply# 77   11/20/2007 at 06:14 (5,992 days old) by mayken4now (Panama City, Florida)        

mayken4now's profile picture
You did a great job.

Steve


Post# 249205 , Reply# 78   11/20/2007 at 06:22 (5,992 days old) by gyrafoam (Wytheville, VA)        

Dick you sure did a wonderful job restoring these beauties!
I really commend you on the re-wiring job you did. Superb.


Post# 249235 , Reply# 79   11/20/2007 at 10:38 (5,992 days old) by harvestgold (Deland, Florida )        
Lady kenmores

Dick Wow you outdid yourself buddy i can`t wait to come over for a vist and see that machine i am so proud of you that a way to go John

Post# 249378 , Reply# 80   11/20/2007 at 23:24 (5,991 days old) by northwesty (Renton, WA)        
My hat's off to you Dick

What a job rewiring and putting together a whole machine out of spare parts, even down to the white tub! Amazing. Really the consummate vintage machine those 57s.

Post# 249381 , Reply# 81   11/20/2007 at 23:57 (5,991 days old) by aldspinboy (Philadelphia, Pa)        

aldspinboy's profile picture
How good does that feel when turning that dial and you here that great kenmore spraying into the tub!!!! and then agitating, WOW.... Dick Damm good job what an insperation enjoy! Darren k

Post# 249406 , Reply# 82   11/21/2007 at 06:31 (5,991 days old) by jons1077 (Vancouver, Washington, USA)        
Dick

jons1077's profile picture
I'm speechless! Amazing job built from the inside out. That takes guts and you did it! Congrats!

Jon


Post# 252890 , Reply# 83   12/8/2007 at 17:46 (5,973 days old) by dick_s. ()        
Thanks to all of you...

for your advice, support and nice comments of encouragement during this restoration project.

I just shot and posted the video on Google. It's entitled 1957 Sears Pink Lady Kenmore if the link below doesn't work.

video.google.com/videoplayQUESTIO...

For anyone who is curious, the answer is NO, I didn't reuse that wash water. I drained it after I turned off the camera. It just looked a bit too murky although it was mostly blue dye out of the 50ls. ((--:: Hope you enjoy the video.

Dick



Post# 252910 , Reply# 84   12/8/2007 at 18:45 (5,973 days old) by laundryshark (Cedar Rapids, Iowa)        
Video Download?

Greetings, Dick:

It sounds like you have quite the interesting classic Lady Kenmore. However, I keep having trouble accessing those Google videos, especially when the only choice in the combo box is for a Sony iPod type file. Even with a Windows Media selection, the Google videos still won't play for me. It's not your fault, but these Google video interfaces are not very screen reader friendly for me. Therefore, do you happen to have the video in a Windows Media format that I might be able to access via a download link? Since my email address *in my profile* can handle large attachments, there's where you might try sharing it.

With Best Regards,

Laundry Shark


Post# 252931 , Reply# 85   12/8/2007 at 20:54 (5,973 days old) by funguy10 ()        

O.K. I've seen the video. Here are my remarks:

So thar's what Susdsaver is!
The machine is very quiet during spin. It does not shake or vibrate. And the way it sounds is comparable to the Samsung VRT Front-Loader.
The machine must clean very well.
The suds return is like a rewind neutral drain with agitation action.


Post# 252933 , Reply# 86   12/8/2007 at 21:15 (5,973 days old) by pdub (Portland, Oregon)        
Dick

pdub's profile picture
Fantastic video. Great job!

Patrick


Post# 252942 , Reply# 87   12/8/2007 at 21:44 (5,973 days old) by 70series ( Connecticut.)        

BY FAR YOUR BEST YET!

That video was the most awesome I've seen! Congrats on rebuilding that once outer cabinet back into the fine washer I just watched. The suds demonstration was a bonus. Thank you for that. I don't know what your secret is, but the lint filters on your machines always are the best working.

You also mentioned that you use Sears detergent? That brings back memories of doing wash with a neighbor who lived across the street from me during my childhood. I can still remember the aroma that detergent had. I hope you get many years out of this Pink Lady.

Have a good one,
James


Post# 252958 , Reply# 88   12/8/2007 at 23:08 (5,973 days old) by appnut (TX)        

appnut's profile picture
Wonderful video Dick. And yes you really should be proud of yourself UH HUH!!!

Post# 252964 , Reply# 89   12/8/2007 at 23:26 (5,973 days old) by dick_s. ()        

Hi guys,
Laundryshark-I emailed you the movie this evening. Let me know if all is okay.

Patrick-Thanks -glad you like it and it was great talking with you last night.

funguy10-Yes, that is what a sudsaver is and it's great for saving hot water and detergent when I wash loads that aren't that dirty OR wash a regular load and then do a load of throw rugs or 501s.

I've never heard a Samsung FL-I just know that the 57 sounds like an old Kenmore-fairly quiet, smooth and sort of rythmic. I grew up with that sound and can't get my fill of it.

It cleans super well and is very gentle on clothes.

And James-thanks for your nice comments. ((--:: I used Sears back in the 60s thru the 70s and then somehow and for some reason stopped. I love the way it cleans and I love not having the suds. That statement is funny as I grew up thinking that the only way clothes were going to get clean was with a tub billowing over with rich, thick suds. (I'm really a Tide guy at heart but really miss that scent from the 60'70s. I still use Tide with bleach for some loads).





Post# 252971 , Reply# 90   12/9/2007 at 01:53 (5,973 days old) by laundryshark (Cedar Rapids, Iowa)        
Watching Like a Shark!

So far, no email has arrived with that file. Hope it did not bounce back because it exceeded the attachment limit, but will continue to keep close watch.--Laundry Shark

Post# 252977 , Reply# 91   12/9/2007 at 06:17 (5,973 days old) by funguy10 ()        

What does the hair dryer attachment foe the dryer do? Does your washer have a drum light and an ultra-violet grem lamp like Unimatic 1140's 1957 Lady Kenmores have?

Post# 252978 , Reply# 92   12/9/2007 at 06:21 (5,973 days old) by funguy10 ()        

This is a video of a Samsung Front-Loader. the VRT stands fo Vibration Reduction Technology. It helps for a quiet, vibration free spin even on high speed. The SilverCare you will hear about in this video is the ability fot the machine to dispense silver ions into the wash water to sanitize the water, drum and laundry.

CLICK HERE TO GO TO funguy10's LINK


Post# 252995 , Reply# 93   12/9/2007 at 08:57 (5,973 days old) by frontaloadotmy (the cool gay realm)        
Dick

That's quite wonderful! wash, wash, wash , go the jeans;
as a certain other laundryophile once quipped! Imagine ;
a "husk" from Alameda to Morongo by way of Grass Valley,
Madera, Tehechapi and Barstow! You Go Boy!!!!


Post# 253005 , Reply# 94   12/9/2007 at 09:51 (5,973 days old) by swestoyz (Cedar Falls, IA)        

swestoyz's profile picture
What a great video Dick - we are all very proud of you. The Lady looks wonderful - and I agree about the filter, looks fab!

I noticed the 'knock' noise that it was making during the agitaton stroke. My '59 makes a similar noise as well - unfortunately I have a feeling it is more than the suspension rods as it has made that noise on all loads, regardless of temp. Any suggestions?

Ben


Post# 253010 , Reply# 95   12/9/2007 at 09:56 (5,973 days old) by gansky1 (Omaha, The Home of the TV Dinner!)        

gansky1's profile picture
Great video, Dick! That Kenmore runs like new, you must be very proud - congrats, you did a beautiful job.




Post# 253061 , Reply# 96   12/9/2007 at 15:04 (5,972 days old) by dick_s. ()        

Laundryshark-You were right-I shut off the computer last night before receiving the notice that the movie attachment was too large. I will think of another way to get it to you.

funguy-The attachment on the dryer is to heat the room, or as the owners manual suggests, drying your hair. I think I could try it for drying tennis shoes if I place them right in front of it while the dryer is running.

Yes, I was able to find a tub light assembly for the 57 so the white wash basket is brightly illuminated with a 40 watt bulb but I have not been able to track down a germicidal lamp assembly for it yet.

Ben, I would still look to the suspension arm supports for your problem. It could be a rubber ball that's gone bad or maybe a rod end that needs a bit of tightening. I'd investigate that area further if everything else about the operation of the 59 sounds proper.

You might also pose this question to the board and see what other suggestions you get.



Dick


Post# 253077 , Reply# 97   12/9/2007 at 17:39 (5,972 days old) by customline (pennsylvania)        
WOW!

I am very impressed by your restoration. Hope you have many years of happy washing.

Post# 253102 , Reply# 98   12/9/2007 at 19:04 (5,972 days old) by funguy10 ()        

Speaking of owner's manuals, could you post them both online?

Post# 253184 , Reply# 99   12/9/2007 at 22:38 (5,972 days old) by laundryshark (Cedar Rapids, Iowa)        
File Sharing Services

You might have better luck with YouSendIt or some other file sharing service.--Laundry Shark

Post# 253198 , Reply# 100   12/10/2007 at 02:13 (5,972 days old) by spinout (Phoenix)        
re: diagrams

What are the model no.s again? I probably have the schematics for both machines (as well as other service information) on a microfiche card. I would be glad to retrieve it for you.

Post# 253345 , Reply# 101   12/10/2007 at 21:02 (5,971 days old) by dick_s. ()        

spinout--that would be super and thanks for the offer. Any info I can get on the pair, in fact any of my early Kenmores is greatly appreciated. Thank you.
The model #s are dryer-5708951P washer-5705953

funguy-Yes I would be happy to do that once I get my scanner back from my friend. ((--::


Post# 257739 , Reply# 102   1/4/2008 at 20:30 (5,946 days old) by dick_s. ()        
Had a nice holiday visit....

...with Ross, (westyslantfront) from Tucson last Sunday. He'd never been up to my place to see my collection and from the way things looked when he arrived, I'm surprised if he'll ever come back! ((--:: We'd just experienced terrible winds and I was in the midst of picking up and retrieving things blown as far as 10 acres away. Merlin from PS was also here.

Of course, the "celebrity" was the 57 LK which is running just great. I also ran 3 other Kenmores and both the 57 and 58 dryers.

Although our visit was short I was running top speed trying to show Ross everything. Well, he'll just have to come back and hopefully he'll bring Roger with him and hopefully I'll have another room by that time and more machines hooked up.

My warmest wishes to all for a wonderful, healthy and happy 2008!

Dick


Post# 257755 , Reply# 103   1/4/2008 at 22:17 (5,946 days old) by tlee618 ()        

Thanks for sharing the picture Dick, Ross looks very happy there but who wouldn't with your beautiful machines to use.

Post# 257763 , Reply# 104   1/4/2008 at 23:03 (5,946 days old) by danelto (State College, PA)        
Wonderful Job!

Congratulations, Dick.

You need to be proud of yourself. What an accomplishment!

Your success is inspiration for all of us who are not mechanically inclined.

Bravo!

Dan


Post# 257782 , Reply# 105   1/5/2008 at 02:03 (5,946 days old) by washerlover (The Big Island, Hawai’i)        

washerlover's profile picture
OMG those machines are just gawgous! Great work!

Post# 257816 , Reply# 106   1/5/2008 at 06:48 (5,946 days old) by westyslantfront ()        

Hi Dick. Thank you for inviting me and giving me the opportunity to see your beautiful collection, especially the pink Lady K set. I look forward to a return visit.


Ross


Post# 257826 , Reply# 107   1/5/2008 at 08:10 (5,946 days old) by gyrafoam (Wytheville, VA)        

Wow, and Ross has really lost the weight!
Congratulations Ross!


Post# 257832 , Reply# 108   1/5/2008 at 09:14 (5,946 days old) by lesto (Atlanta)        

Hi Dick. I just watch the video. This Lady is a beauty! You did an awesome job on it.

Is the 57 the last year Sears used a one-minute interval timer before they switched to the 2-minute to accomodate the addition of the wash n wear cycle in 58?

If you have time soon can you post some pics of your 58? That's my favorite year for the Kenmore Ladies.

Thanks,
Lesto


Post# 257856 , Reply# 109   1/5/2008 at 11:09 (5,945 days old) by laundryshark (Cedar Rapids, Iowa)        
Adding the 1957 Ladies to My Video Collection

With some assistance from a couple of folks here, I am having great success in collecting several Kenmore and other washer demos. Would still be interested in files of Dick's 1957 Kenmores, as these would become the oldest washers added to my computer video collection.--Laundry Shark

Post# 262117 , Reply# 110   1/28/2008 at 22:27 (5,922 days old) by dick_s. ()        
John's visit

Harvestgold from SD and I had a nice visit recently and of course we ran the "Lady" ((--:: He is such a nice guy and we never run out of "subjects" to talk about. Hmmmmmmm....... I need to get over to SD and check out his rapidly growing collection one of these days. After he left I couldn't pull myself away from the machines and had 3 washers hummin' all afternoon, also the 57 LK dryer.

lesto-I will do some pictures of the 58 for you soon. I think overall, that is my favorite washer as I had so many memories of it while growing up.

Oh, and laundryshark-I haven't forgotten about you and the sound files of my old Kenmores. You will have them, I promise.


Post# 262120 , Reply# 111   1/28/2008 at 22:35 (5,922 days old) by dick_s. ()        
Never get enough

of watchin' those old Kenmores. Just love em.

Terry-it is always nice to hear from you and hope that 63 pink Maytag is runnin' super.

And to Danelto and Washerlover-thanks for your nice comments.


Post# 262127 , Reply# 112   1/29/2008 at 01:54 (5,922 days old) by washerlover (The Big Island, Hawai’i)        

washerlover's profile picture
Thanks for the "thanks!" Even we up here in the far reaches of the Redwoods of northwestern California love that pink! Hoping to add that color to my collection...so far only Coppertone, White, and Harvest Gold.

Post# 262210 , Reply# 113   1/29/2008 at 17:30 (5,921 days old) by frontaloadotmy (the cool gay realm)        
Your Blushing Ladies?

You know full well that I only loaned those and the
Copper V's to you! Honestly ; some collectors just need to get a grip!!!


Post# 262211 , Reply# 114   1/29/2008 at 17:44 (5,921 days old) by pdub (Portland, Oregon)        
Dick...

pdub's profile picture
You didn't say the machines were only on loan.

I'm shocked!

PS- Is that your ballerina pose next to the pink machine?!!!


Post# 262231 , Reply# 115   1/29/2008 at 22:16 (5,921 days old) by tlee618 ()        

Dick not to worry that beautiful Maytag Highlander is running like a champ!! You need to get down here one day and see it in person. Terry

Post# 262297 , Reply# 116   1/30/2008 at 12:16 (5,920 days old) by laundryshark (Cedar Rapids, Iowa)        
Shark Making His Rounds

Hey Dick,

Still a watching and waiting with baited fishy breath for those classic Lady Kenmore audio shots. And while I'm at it up here, just wanted to track down David and Dennis. I forget your screen names. I wanted to follow up on how you are coming along with those other washer file projects I popped your direction from off the streaming YouTube. Nothing soothes the winter blues and kills bordom like a bunch of classic laundry demos.

Many Thanks!

Laundry Shark


Post# 262375 , Reply# 117   1/30/2008 at 21:36 (5,920 days old) by dick_s. ()        
Such a playful jokster he is........!

Patrick-You can rest easy. Frontalobotomy is such a smarty sometimes but you can't help but love him anyway!! (--:: And NO, I wasn't having one of my Loretta Young moments-I was supporting the roof of the wash studio! I didn't think it was that noticeable, but obviously is was.

Frontal left the cat out of the bag about the early 60's coppertone V-12 set with mini wash. I was waiting till I had some pics of them and start a new thread which I will do as soon as the winds and the rain stops for a bit.

Terry, you never know. I'm feeling I want to do something special next year for what I consider a special B-Day so....you just might see me down in your neck of the woods. In the meantime you are most welcome out here.

And Laundryshark-I'm working on that audio project. You'll be hearing again from me. Just be patient with me. I'm old and don't move as fast as I used to! ((--::


Post# 262382 , Reply# 118   1/30/2008 at 22:10 (5,920 days old) by laundryshark (Cedar Rapids, Iowa)        
Old Washer Collectors Never Die!...

They just become off balance!--Laundry Shark

Post# 262397 , Reply# 119   1/30/2008 at 23:53 (5,920 days old) by frontaloadotmy (the cool gay realm)        
Perfect !!

Ls

Post# 262499 , Reply# 120   1/31/2008 at 12:24 (5,919 days old) by mickeyd (Hamburg NY)        
Ballerina??? I thought it was macho, just hanging out with y

mickeyd's profile picture
those are great pictures of you guys. Ross looks great, lost so much weight, speaking of whom, is there to be a Tuscon-a-thon this spring?

Post# 262536 , Reply# 121   1/31/2008 at 14:50 (5,919 days old) by frontaloadotmy (the cool gay realm)        
Actually , it is the "Das Boot"

Pose!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Post# 262538 , Reply# 122   1/31/2008 at 15:04 (5,919 days old) by frontaloadotmy (the cool gay realm)        
10/07/2007-

01/31/2008 Woo-hoo! 122
I Have the cover for the back of the "Split-level Console/
Back Splash" would you like me to bring when I come in a few weeks?????


Post# 262541 , Reply# 123   1/31/2008 at 15:16 (5,919 days old) by mickeyd (Hamburg NY)        
10/07/2007-- 01/31/2008

mickeyd's profile picture
I love it when you play Sphinx and only Veg knows how to interpret you. XXOO. ;'D

Post# 264131 , Reply# 124   2/9/2008 at 20:19 (5,910 days old) by laundryshark (Cedar Rapids, Iowa)        
Are the Ladies Still Blushing?

*grins* Just checking on Dick and his blushing ladies. Colder than a well-digger's butt outside! So I'm attempting to kill bordom by hanging around up here, as I am taking a break from writing second edition of my book.--Laundry Shark

Post# 264139 , Reply# 125   2/9/2008 at 22:08 (5,910 days old) by dick_s. ()        
Well now that you ask....

I have been having a nagging problem with the 57 in that water dribbles into the tub and in NO WAY am I getting even close to 5 temperatures. I didn't want to bother the club with it and thought I could take care of it on my own but I'm still having problems and being that you asked, I'll shoot it out there.

I started out with a thermostatic three solenoid valve a friend had from an old 50s Kenmore. It only worked on one setting and the water wouldn't shut off when I pulled out on the timer. I was ready to rebuild it but was told that the solenoids are no longer available so on to a new plan.

I bought a 3 solenoid Horton valve CO2086-4 N3042 10W, well in fact I finally ended up buying two thinking that the first one was faulty. It is a non thermostatic valve but I was told that they were interchangeable with the thermostatic. Well after much time spent checking hoses, switching to new faucets, etc. I still had the same problem. I even went on line to Horton but couldn't find any useful info. Just today I discovered the flow washers and took them out leaving the four hole brass rings in. I do have more flow-now thinking of taking out the brass rings and see if I get even more flow. I've got hot and when I turn to med or any other setting-all water entering the tub is basically cold. I'm scratching my head. Don't know where to go from here-maybe try taking the brass ring out of the hot side inlet and see if that will give added hot water pressure to mix with the cold. I'm sure I have got the wires connected properly as I get a fluctuation in water pressure with moving the selector thru all 5 settings.

Other than that I have no other issues with either the washer or the dryer.

BTW LK, what about me putting the Windows movies of my 56-57-58 on a CD and sending them to you?

Dick


Post# 264145 , Reply# 126   2/9/2008 at 23:00 (5,910 days old) by powerfin64 (Yakima, Washington)        

powerfin64's profile picture
you can send me a copy of your 56-8 on CD for me too!


Rich


Post# 266825 , Reply# 127   2/27/2008 at 01:23 (5,893 days old) by pdub (Portland, Oregon)        
So...

pdub's profile picture
Did you ever find a germicidal light for this machine?

How about the water valve - have the temperatures been resolved and you're getting all 5?

Inquiring minds.....



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