Thread Number: 3225
GE Versatronic Control Dryer
[Down to Last]

automaticwasher.org's exclusive eBay Watch:
scroll >>> for more items --- [As an eBay Partner, eBay may compensate automaticwasher.org if you make a purchase using any link to eBay on this page]
Post# 81865   9/6/2005 at 18:27 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        

Hello. This is my first post here. I have been reading along for quite some time and have really enjoyed the place. I'm amazed at the expertise here. I was wondering if anyone can help me with dating this dryer. I've tried flowers, candy...but still, I've come up empty handed. This was left behind when I purchased my current home 4 years ago and all the other appliances left behind date to about '57, but I'm not sure if this is the original dryer installed when the house was built or not. It seems as though it could be from that time period. It's got that little atomic symbol on it and a chevron. Seems to fit. And also, is there such a thing as a versatronic control washer? I would love to get a matching washer if such a thing exists. Thanks so much for any help any of you guys can send my way. I hope to join in on the fun when I have something to contribute.




Post# 81866 , Reply# 1   9/6/2005 at 18:34 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        
Here's a close up of the control panel

Here's a close up of the control panel. It lights up when you turn the timer. Other unusual things about this dryer: it has a foot switch to open the door, when the door opens, a light comes on inside, and finally, it's a oil dryer.

Post# 81867 , Reply# 2   9/6/2005 at 18:36 (6,778 days old) by tolivac (greenville nc)        

Interesting-It uses fuel oil for the heat source?didn't know such a thing was available.Learned something new.Its a really nice machine-and that cool lamp next to it!!

Post# 81869 , Reply# 3   9/6/2005 at 18:47 (6,778 days old) by Gyrafoam (Wytheville, VA)        
A diesel dryer?

Wow! That is really a beautiful machine. And yes, I can see where you would like to match it up. Of all the modern GE's those were really the best looking.

I can thing of at least two friends who would love to have a set of those machines! Best of luck to you-----you never know where you might find that washer!

Thanks for posting the photo's!


Post# 81870 , Reply# 4   9/6/2005 at 18:48 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        
Yes, it's oil powered

A belt broke on this thing about a year after I started using it. The noise about gave me a heart attack. I called a GE repair guy (yes, I'm not worthy of this place) and he put a new belt on. The guy said he's been repairing dryers for 30 years and he never actually saw an oil dryer. Then he gave me a date when the last oil dryer was made. I forget what he said but I want to say 1971 or something like that.

I just picked up that lamp yesterday. Don't get me started on lamps. I have a sick lamp fetish. I probably have about 200 fifties lamps. Here's one of my favorites. I hope the moderator doesn't bust me for this.


Post# 81871 , Reply# 5   9/6/2005 at 18:53 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        
So there is a matching washer...

I didn't know if there was a matching washer. I've been looking for such a thing for four years now and figured it didn't exist. Thanks so much. I hope someone can date it for me. I just picked up a 65 kelvinator fridge. I got the eBay link from this place. It was a horrendous experience and I think I'm too traumatized to talk about it yet.

Post# 81872 , Reply# 6   9/6/2005 at 18:56 (6,778 days old) by Launderess (Quiet Please, There´s a Lady on Stage)        
Have Something To Contribute!

launderess's profile picture
My dear, you have just done so!

An oil fired clothes dryer! That simply has got me gob-smacked!

Guess propane tanks weren't around then? Either way you slice it hold on to that baby cause next to the Maytag combo units, they have to be rare as hen's teeth.

Welcome to the club, by the way. And good luck on your quest. As one of the resident eBay "trallers" look out for my posts. You never know what might pop up.

Launderess


Post# 81874 , Reply# 7   9/6/2005 at 19:04 (6,778 days old) by tolivac (greenville nc)        

WOW!!Love it-maybe I will have to hunt the swap shops here for some 50's lights Really cool.Love the "space age" one.and the fifties looking corner of the drape.Looks like a fifties pattern.Have several issues of 1950's Better Homes and Gardens,and American Home,as well as "Progressive Farmer" Found the box of them at the used bookstore here(while it was still operating)for 50 cents.Still looking at them.Sounds like you have a really interesting collection of lamps.--I have a thing for industrial Metal halide and High Pressure Sodium lights. Buy them used from an electrical contractor out here.Love the quality of the Halide light-just like Sunlight!!Has the blue spectrum that Incandescent lamps lack. One of them I have came from the Hatteras Boat factory.They used them for inspection of the paint jobs on completed boats.The boat factories around here change their light fixtures frequently.They are not as attractive as your fifties light fixtures!!-but the Halides do put out the light.These are also sold as "plant lights" for folks who like to grow their plants indoors.The contractor that sold me mine said he got calls from indoor gardners for the lights he was selling.

Post# 81879 , Reply# 8   9/6/2005 at 19:17 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        
Ooops

I responded to you guys, but somehow it became a new thread rather than a reply. I guess I don't quite have the hang of this yet. Maybe the moderator can delete that thread.

Post# 81881 , Reply# 9   9/6/2005 at 19:21 (6,778 days old) by southernmdgeguy ()        
67-68 vintage I think.

Welcome to the club, as a new member here as well, I think you will find this a great place to be with a membership having amazing amounts of knowledge and skills. Love that dryer, I never knew there were oil fired models, cool! One simular to that is on my wish list. Growing up we had a set like that, was not the fancy top of the line like that one appears to be, but the light and timer was exactly the same. We had the matching set, I seem to remember our dryer had like 4 different heat options and a start button at the bottom of the row. Somewhere around here I have all the factory paperwork from them.
Scott


Post# 81883 , Reply# 10   9/6/2005 at 19:31 (6,778 days old) by Goatfarmer (South Bend, home of Champions)        

goatfarmer's profile picture
This website mentions Versatronic as being part of GE of Canada.

kennyGF


CLICK HERE TO GO TO Goatfarmer's LINK


Post# 81885 , Reply# 11   9/6/2005 at 19:35 (6,778 days old) by Goatfarmer (South Bend, home of Champions)        

goatfarmer's profile picture
Versatronic Range ad,circa 1971.

CLICK HERE TO GO TO Goatfarmer's LINK


Post# 81889 , Reply# 12   9/6/2005 at 19:40 (6,778 days old) by Pulltostart (Mobile, AL)        
Versatronic

pulltostart's profile picture
I have a piece of GE literature from early 1968 that shows this dryer. This is definitely a TOL for GE. I don't think this dryer was offered after GE introduced their 18 lb washers - the matching dryers where the larger, 31-inch-wide models. I would guess it to be a 1966-1968 offering.
Lawrence


Post# 81890 , Reply# 13   9/6/2005 at 19:40 (6,778 days old) by Goatfarmer (South Bend, home of Champions)        

goatfarmer's profile picture
Someone here has the control panel from a washer.

CLICK HERE TO GO TO Goatfarmer's LINK


Post# 81891 , Reply# 14   9/6/2005 at 19:42 (6,778 days old) by GEExtraRinse (Hudson Valley, New York )        
Hi Mike!

geextrarinse's profile picture
Great Dryer! - I too am a GE fan and there IS a member on here who has a matching washer to your dryer - he sent me pics which i would post but my hard drive recently crashed and I lost them - I will look for the thread and see if i can refer you to him! - his washer is greeat and the perfect match I believe - same dash board at least!

Thanks for posting!

Matthew


Post# 81892 , Reply# 15   9/6/2005 at 19:44 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        
Wow, a matching range

See, I already learned something. I had seen the bad company website before when I did a google on versatronic. And actually, that's how I originally found this place. Someone mentioned a versatronic in their profile and I got a google hit on this place and have been reading it ever since. I love when someone displays a new find and someone else begs them to pop the lid. It makes me laugh every time.

Post# 81895 , Reply# 16   9/6/2005 at 19:51 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        
Thanks Matthew

I would be most grateful if you could hook me up with the fellow. Even if he's not willing to sell, I'd just love to get a picture of the match. Also, thank so much for dating the thing Lawernce. Everybody, thanks. Keep the info coming. This is even better than I expected. I'll keep checking back.

Post# 81901 , Reply# 17   9/6/2005 at 20:04 (6,778 days old) by GEExtraRinse (Hudson Valley, New York )        
Ask FilterFlo

geextrarinse's profile picture
Jim has the matching washer and if you look up the thread #2583 (i think) you'll see the washer just to the right of the laundry sink - he sent me some great pics but like i said i lost them. I'm sure he'll send them again if you ask him - i was very glad to see them and i'm sure others will be also!

Have fun with it!

Matthew



Post# 81903 , Reply# 18   9/6/2005 at 20:07 (6,778 days old) by GEExtraRinse (Hudson Valley, New York )        
sorry

geextrarinse's profile picture
that was 2853 - weekend washin at Gary's

Post# 81904 , Reply# 19   9/6/2005 at 20:12 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        
I can't find that thread, but...

A very nice member just emailed me photos of the washer. This is the first time I have ever laid eyes on it. This is fantastic. Thank you everyone.

Post# 81907 , Reply# 20   9/6/2005 at 20:25 (6,778 days old) by deeptub (Carbondale, IL)        
Control Panel

deeptub's profile picture
I'd love to see the pictures of the Versatronic washer. The control panel I had off my grandmother's diappeared c. 1981 when my mother went on one of her cleaning rampages. I haven't laid eyes on a Versatronic washer since. :(

T.


Post# 81909 , Reply# 21   9/6/2005 at 20:32 (6,778 days old) by Petek (Ontari ari ari O )        

petek's profile picture
Mike, great dryer, I'd never heard of an oil dryer either. Does it say where it was made on the serial plate?

Would love to see pics of your lamp collection and other small appliances, as you've probably noticed there are lots of eclectic collectors here. Noticed your orange glassware as well, that's sort of where I started with this craziness, buying Murano glass etc. Now I can't stop.


Post# 81912 , Reply# 22   9/6/2005 at 20:38 (6,778 days old) by fixerman ()        

Here's an interesting link that could be useful in dating some of our machines. On the GE page it only goes back to 1980. If it is like it appears, the year letters seem to repeat every twelve years, one could make an guess/assumption for older models.

CLICK HERE TO GO TO fixerman's LINK


Post# 81913 , Reply# 23   9/6/2005 at 20:39 (6,778 days old) by fixerman ()        

What's the serial number on your GE?

Post# 81916 , Reply# 24   9/6/2005 at 20:44 (6,778 days old) by Launderess (Quiet Please, There´s a Lady on Stage)        

launderess's profile picture
What sort of "oil" does this dryer run on anyway? Bunker fuel grade 4? *LOL*

Launderess


Post# 81917 , Reply# 25   9/6/2005 at 20:48 (6,778 days old) by toggleswitch (New York City, NY)        

toggleswitch's profile picture
Hi and WELCOME!

Oil-fired dryer?
STOP THIS MERRY-GO-ROUND RIGHT NOW! LOL


PLEASE describe the burner, and does the machine have a fuel storage tank within or like today's oil burners, is the oil supply just piped in?

Since early oil burners were not the cleanest burning and did not have complete combustion, carbon and soot and odors would in theory be a problem. I am guessing, therefore, that a heat-exchanger would be expected here. (Like a frigidaire filtator that used room air to cool the warm moist air that circulated though the clothes and drum. The two air streams did not mix).

I am theorizing, then, that cool dry clean air is heated by passing over the air-stream of the combustion, but the two air flows don't mix. The dryer then may have had a vent for the warm moist air and another for the products of comustion (or perhaps hey were combined before exiting the machine).

I would personally kiss your feet for pics of the guts of this dryer.

Thank you so much for posting and sharing you insights and discovery.


Post# 81920 , Reply# 26   9/6/2005 at 20:52 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        
Serial Number

The plate with the serial number is shiny like a mirror and I can't read the numbers in the current light. I tried putting thin paper over it and rubbing a pencil on it, but that didn't work. I think I'll have to wait until there is normal daylight to read it. The plate does say made in u.s.a. in appliance city, Kentucky. I'll try to get the serial number tomorrow in normal daylight.

Post# 81926 , Reply# 27   9/6/2005 at 20:59 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        
Oil Dryer

This place has two big honking oil tanks in the bomb shelter in the basement. You know, fuel oil tanks. And there's a little copper tube that snakes through the place somehow, somewhere and come out of the floor right behind the dryer. So, it's normal fuel oil.

For the nice fellow who wants to see some of my small appliances, I'm posting some pictures. I have maybe a dozen blenders. This is my all-time favorite. The Galaxie Ten Oyster. This isn't my favorite coffee maker, but it's in my top 3 and happens to be on display at the moment.


Post# 81930 , Reply# 28   9/6/2005 at 21:24 (6,778 days old) by veg-o-matic (Baltimore, Hon!)        
Well, butter my butt

veg-o-matic's profile picture
and call me a biscuit. An oil dryer. Never heeerd of such a thing!

Vers', I love your house! I have the same two-tier candy dish as you, but mine's in lovely Avocado green. Would that fabboo turquoise perc be a West Bend Fiesta (ole!) Perc? If so, I have a similar one in orange.

More pics, please! And welcome to the club!

veg


Post# 81934 , Reply# 29   9/6/2005 at 21:35 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        
West Bend

The candy dish is Haeger Mandarin Orange. I have that stuff all over my living room. I'm doing a red, orange, yellow thing in there. I can't tell you if the coffee pot is a "Fiesta" but it is a West Bend. I love West Bend stuff. I even have an old west bend automic drip coffee maker in yellow and brown which I actually use every day. Just for you, I pulled out my all-time favorite coffee pot. It is also, you guessed it, a West Bend. Check out the George Jetson styling on this beauty. That's a GE can opener in turquoise in the background. I have 2 in white as well, and god knows how many sunbeam and other can openers. It's sick, I know, but that's why I fit in here, I think. Anyway, survey says...

Post# 81941 , Reply# 30   9/6/2005 at 21:53 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        
Banquet

This is my last post for tonight. I never expected such an immediate and overwelmingly friendly response. Thanks to everyone for cheering me up as I recover from the kelvinator shock. I'll be checking back tomorrow and I'll try to get the serial number on the versatronic. I'll leave you with one angle of my kitchen. It's a section that has a built-in banquet. Naugahyde I believe. It was there when I moved in. On the side coming out from the wall, in the back, it has the heater/radiator or whatever you call it built right into it. The table matches the counters, although I know that the "legs" of the table weren't original. It originally had chrome legs. The walls of the kitchen are dripped porcelain on metal. A magnet sticks to the walls. The ceiling is all white shiny metal, like you would see for the ceiling of a diner. It's all in immaculate condition. I was very lucky to get the place and feel an obligation to preserve it.

Thanks again all.


Post# 81942 , Reply# 31   9/6/2005 at 21:54 (6,778 days old) by Launderess (Quiet Please, There´s a Lady on Stage)        
To Veg

launderess's profile picture
Will that be unsalted or salted butter?

*wink*

Launderess


Post# 81943 , Reply# 32   9/6/2005 at 21:58 (6,778 days old) by tlee618 ()        

You definitely fit in here. Thanks for sharing all the great pictures. Where in the world did you get the beautiful Sunbeam mixer in Turquoise? That sure is a beauty. An oil dryer, now I have heard of everything. Sure hope you can show us some inside shots sometime. Welcome to the club. Terry

Post# 81948 , Reply# 33   9/6/2005 at 22:17 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        
I lied...

...but I'm shutting down and going to bed now. I picked up the '57 Mixmaster at a flea market. I couldn't believe the condition it was in. No paint chips anywhere. Just gorgeous. I have another turquoise one is great shape but with no bowls. I have two chrome ones and one white one. One of the chrome ones had all kinds of great attachments with it. My favorite is the glass juicer that goes on top. I also have one chromed out dormeyer that is gorgeous. All flea market finds over the years. Sometimes I have two or three of the same thing. It's a disease. So if anybody ever wants to trade, I'm always up for that.

Post# 81950 , Reply# 34   9/6/2005 at 22:29 (6,778 days old) by appnut (TX)        

appnut's profile picture
I love all the pictures. Thanks a lot for taking them. That cooktop is breath taking as is the oven. Is there a dishwasher? I look forward to the rest of the interior too. I particularly love the turqoise period pieces.

Post# 81951 , Reply# 35   9/6/2005 at 22:39 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        
The Dishwasher

You guys have me wound up. Here's the diswasher. The whole kitchen was decked out in GE stuff. I manuals were left behind as well.

Post# 81952 , Reply# 36   9/6/2005 at 22:41 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        
Inside

Now here's the obigatory and gratuitous automaticwashers.org "pop-that-baby-open" shot.

Post# 81955 , Reply# 37   9/6/2005 at 22:51 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        
Stove Top Money Shot

Appnut, I thought you might be interested in seeing more of the Stovetop. The door in the middle of the stovetop opens to reveal a grittle. I pulled the grittle aside so you could see the heating elements underneath it. Pretty cool, huh? Notice that the grittle still has an original factory sticker on it, meaning, it's never been used!

Post# 81959 , Reply# 38   9/6/2005 at 23:38 (6,778 days old) by gansky1 (Omaha, The Home of the TV Dinner!)        

gansky1's profile picture
You have quite a treasure trove of appliances there - thanks for the pictures! How does the dishwasher clean?

There should be a wiring diagram on the back of the dryer, can you photo that? An oil-fired clothes dryer does seem highly unlikely given the nature of the fuel, its combustion and the ignition system needed to make it work, this will be interesting!


Post# 81961 , Reply# 39   9/6/2005 at 23:45 (6,778 days old) by appnut (TX)        

appnut's profile picture
Wow, that dishwasher is awesome. You do understand it's not the original dishwasher. But, this one appears to be 1970 or so, just before the PotScrubber cycle was released on the market. I could be wrong, but that's what I sense. and with it being the famous 2-speed, that's so cool. I can't quite make out the cycle buttons. Ideally, I would love for you to email me what the buttons say as well as cycle sequences (washes & rinses per button as well as cycle time). (I can make out china crystal on the far right) (that uses the more delicate washing speed--actually not a 2 speed motor, but the water is kinda aerated and gentler because it doesn't fill up with as much water as the normal fills do. But the automatic rinse-glo insignia on the panel does date the machine to at most 1971 or 1972. I'm fascinated by it.

In a way I can understand the griddle never being used. Our gas cooktop had one (including a built-in temperature indicator). My mom used it some, more for the novelty. She hated cleaning up the cooktop after frying bacon or sausage on it. It was never used to its full potential tho. Made pancakes some. But she eventually resorted back to her trusty cast iron skillet for those pancakes, fench toast, and grilled cheese (what a waste). Enough of my ranting.

Again, thankis for the pics. And send that email is ya can--it's in my profile.


Post# 81964 , Reply# 40   9/6/2005 at 23:52 (6,778 days old) by powerfin64 (Yakima, Washington)        
all I can say is..

powerfin64's profile picture
you got some serious friends on here now! Awesome pics!
Rich


Post# 81971 , Reply# 41   9/7/2005 at 00:30 (6,778 days old) by gansky1 (Omaha, The Home of the TV Dinner!)        

gansky1's profile picture
I think you're about right on that dishwasher, Bob. I have the brochure for this model year, the TOL model did have a "super wash" cycle for heavily soiled items and the split upper rack. It was the "Americana Versatronic" - quite regal sounding for a machine that didn't have a great reputation for cleaning ability. ;-)

That cooktop looks like a newer Thermador model, I had a friend whose parents built a new home with one and they used the griddle all the time.


Post# 81986 , Reply# 42   9/7/2005 at 06:14 (6,778 days old) by Tomturbomatic (Beltsville, MD)        

I also have the dryer. Mine is a 1968. I had to research that because the board was bad and the auto dry would not work. The great news from GE was that the board was NLA, but Larry rode to the rescue and I bought the one he had. The dryer is very quiet and I like the control panel far better than the 70s reconfiguration with orange and yellow markings on my GE Big Mouth dryer.

Have you looked behind this dryer to see where it is connected to an electrical outlet? Tell us about the plug.

Next time you are in the grocery store, look for Fruit Fresh. It should be readily available near the sugar and canning/freezing supplies since it will soon be time to "put up" apples. Fruit Fresh is citric acid and you should use it in your dishwasher to remove the iron stains. You start the machine with nothing in it and the detergent cup empty, but closed. Turn the timer dial until you hear the cup open, or just let it run until you hear the cup open because you want the main wash. Open the door and pour in the container of Fruit Fresh and restart the machine. That should remove the iron stains. Stupid "hints column" people have recommended using Tang for this, but wasting that much sugar is a crime just to get the citric acid.


Post# 81988 , Reply# 43   9/7/2005 at 06:25 (6,778 days old) by toggleswitch (New York City, NY)        

toggleswitch's profile picture
LOL

With the atomic symbol on it I was at first wondering if the damn dryer needed uranium.. HA HA

Quote "It's sick, I know, but that's why I fit in here, I think. Anyway, survey says..."

Hmmmmmmm NO COMMENT. LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL









Post# 81989 , Reply# 44   9/7/2005 at 06:26 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        
Answers

Thanks for all the info. I knew the stove top was not original because I have the paper work/manual on it and its dated and has a zip code on it and you're right, it's a thermador. I've come across some vintage cooktops but I never felt compelled to replace it. The styling fits right in with everything else. I'm really happy with it.

As for the dishwasher, it never ever crossed my mind that it might not be original to the building of the house. The lettering on it, like the rinse-glo insignia, man, that's right out of the fifties. But I don't doubt you guys. That's why I'm here, because of the expertise. I thought I had the manual around here somewhere, too, and it led me to believe it was a late fifties model. I'll have to see if I can dig it up again. I'll email more info about the dishwasher to you tonight appnut.

The washer that was in this place up until the day of my closing, I believe was a Magic Chef, because they left the manual behind. The graphics on the manual would lead me to believe it was a 70's washer. They were supposed to leave it here, but when I did my walk-thru, it was gone. Later when I asked about it, the guy said his daughter needed a washer.

The back of the dryer has some schematics and stuff. It would be really tough to get a pictures of it. I'd have to pull the dryer away from the wall and I am afraid to do that. I might end up with fuel oil all over the floor or something. The back of the dryer is enclosed and I can't get pictures of the inside works without pulling the dryer out, taking the back off, etc. As an amatuer, it's probably something I shouldn't attempt. Just so you know, there is zero percent soot problem from the oil burner. None whatsoever. It burns as clean as clean can be and works great. It takes less time to dry my clothers than with an electric or gas dryer. I've own both previously.


Post# 81992 , Reply# 45   9/7/2005 at 06:35 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        
The plug

There is no electric cord and plug visible. There is nothing coming out of the dryer except the exhaust and the copper fuel tube. The only thing I can figure is there's a hole in the floor under the dryer and a cord goes down through the floor and hooks into the electric somewhere. There is no sign of any cord coming through the floor underneath the dryer, which sits over my garage (garage is under the house). So, I can't tell you anything about the electric part of it. Nothing is exposed or easy to get to.

Post# 81994 , Reply# 46   9/7/2005 at 06:49 (6,778 days old) by toggleswitch (New York City, NY)        

toggleswitch's profile picture
OK Mike.

HA BE un-cooperative (wink).Don't be surprised when the Northeast contingent gets in a car and knocks on your door...

We may have to find a vintage GE electric replacement for you, run a 30a 220 line and do an emergency autopsy (ooopps I meant exploratory surgery) on the oil-fired dinosaur.


Just kidding.

*SIGH*

Maybe, just maybe, when you get your oil heat serviced in *AHEM* SEPTEMBER or OCTOBER for the season the oilman could be persuaded ($20) or enticed ($40) to move it for you so you could open it and "clean it" ...ya know all that lint.

Worst case scenario (to save face) tell him you want to make sure there is a valve back there and would he intall one for you? After all you'd HATE to call him back in January should the thing (gawd forbid) die and need to be relplaced.

Then, with a digital camera... snap the hell put of it.
Then the oilman can recover it and put it back in place.

BTW ONE standard 4" exhaust? or two "flues" ??



LOL who ME pushy? NO WAY. LOL





Post# 81995 , Reply# 47   9/7/2005 at 06:50 (6,778 days old) by toggleswitch (New York City, NY)        

toggleswitch's profile picture
I'd settle in the mean-time for a pic of the copper oil line going into the rear.

HINT HINT

Who loves ya baby?



Post# 81998 , Reply# 48   9/7/2005 at 06:53 (6,778 days old) by toggleswitch (New York City, NY)        

toggleswitch's profile picture
Your tea kettles, by the way, are fabulous.

Had the Farberware [back left] till my mother-in-law appropriated it. Gotta love her. It was OK. The kettle only worked on my gas stove, (bottom not flat) not the two other smooth-tops. LOL


Post# 82000 , Reply# 49   9/7/2005 at 07:17 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        
Pushy? The thought never crossed my mind...

I called in late for work since my "new" kelvinator leaked toxic waste all over the floor last night and buckled one of my kitchen tiles, the evil thing. So, here is a picture of the back showing the exhaust and tubing. I also attempted to take a picture of the schematic. There's another one back there also, but some of it is torn off.

Those are just some of my tea kettles. I have a little more expertise in small appliances and vintage kitchenware than I do with large appliances. The farberware piece is actually from the 70's and outside of the era that I collect. However, the styling is so wonderfully space age, it fits with everything else. I have two like the one you see and a smaller one. I pulled out another tea kettle for you to look at. This one gets the award for best jetsons styling (that I own, I'm on the hunt for the holy grail of tea kettles, I've seen pictures of it, and found a smaller version at a flea market once...but the full size has eluded me).

The camera says battery low...


Post# 82001 , Reply# 50   9/7/2005 at 07:20 (6,778 days old) by Versatronic ()        
Oh Well

The schematic picture got such a glare on it, that most of it is blanked out and not visible. Sorry for the tease. I'll try again at a later time.

Here's my favorite tea kettle. I haven't had a chance to clean this one up yet to get ready for display. This is the condition I found it in. This thing will clean right up and sparkle, though, when I get to it.


Post# 82009 , Reply# 51   9/7/2005 at 08:34 (6,778 days old) by Unimatic1140 (Minneapolis)        

unimatic1140's profile picture
Hi Mike, GE put Rinse-Glo on their dishwashers from about the mid 60's thru the early 70's.

As for that pipe sticking out of the dryer, are you sure that isn't a natural gas line? It sure looks that way.


Post# 82013 , Reply# 52   9/7/2005 at 08:51 (6,778 days old) by versatronic ()        
It's Oil

No, trust me, it's oil. I did find the tubing that goes from the oil tanks to the dryer. Plus, I don't get a gas bill. My home heating is oil as well. The oil heats water that flows through pipes throughout the house. I've been told it's about the most effecient heating system ever devised.

Post# 82017 , Reply# 53   9/7/2005 at 09:28 (6,777 days old) by veg-o-matic (Baltimore, Hon!)        

veg-o-matic's profile picture
I think that's the ONLY GE dishwasher I'd allow in my house. Can't help lovin' that Rinse Glo!

I've been looking for that "leafy" toaster for a while now. Nice to see one up-close and personal. Looks even better than I imagined.

Hmmm. Harrisburg isn't very far from Baltimore. Mike, I'm comin' for a visit!

veg


Post# 82020 , Reply# 54   9/7/2005 at 09:37 (6,777 days old) by toggleswitch (New York City, NY)        

toggleswitch's profile picture
What's a glo-rinse?

Do you know what a tresaure that dryer is?
I has GOT to be the rarest thing around.

Thank you Mike for your kind compliance. You are much appreciated and esteemed ALREADY. LOL




Post# 82026 , Reply# 55   9/7/2005 at 10:49 (6,777 days old) by hometechdoc ()        
Versatronic Series

GE has a long history of creating marketing buzz by launching appliance series, often associated with a specific appliance innovation. The "Americana" series was coined with the release of the ice and water dispensor refrigerator in the late 60's. Remember the Brady Bunch refrigerator. The Versatronic series was released around the same time. This series was at the launch of their combination microwave/conventional ovens marketed in free standing and hi/lo range versions.

I have never seen an oil fired dryer either, but I have seen several alternate energy source appliances marketed by speicialty retailers geared to the rural/remote customer. Often times these were retrofitted versions of standard models.

The Thermador cooktop you have is one of their standards and they manufactured a version of this cooktop for nearly fifty years.

I have seen this dryer (electric version)and its' matching washer in the equipment laboratory at SUNY Oneanta. The lab was remodeled in the late 60's. I last was there around 1992 and I am sure the lab has been dismanteled by now.


Post# 82027 , Reply# 56   9/7/2005 at 10:49 (6,777 days old) by hometechdoc ()        
Versatronic Series

GE has a long history of creating marketing buzz by launching appliance series, often associated with a specific appliance innovation. The "Americana" series was coined with the release of the ice and water dispensor refrigerator in the late 60's. Remember the Brady Bunch refrigerator. The Versatronic series was released around the same time. This series was at the launch of their combination microwave/conventional ovens marketed in free standing and hi/lo range versions.

I have never seen an oil fired dryer either, but I have seen several alternate energy source appliances marketed by speicialty retailers geared to the rural/remote customer. Often times these were retrofitted versions of standard models.

The Thermador cooktop you have is one of their standards and they manufactured a version of this cooktop for nearly fifty years.

I have seen this dryer (electric version)and its' matching washer in the equipment laboratory at SUNY Oneanta. The lab was remodeled in the late 60's. I last was there around 1992 and I am sure the lab has been dismanteled by now.


Post# 82030 , Reply# 57   9/7/2005 at 10:54 (6,777 days old) by Tomturbomatic (Beltsville, MD)        

I think that the dryer is direct wired and that is the conduit. There is no other connection to the dryer and it has to have electricity to run. If you take off the small cover over the terminal block, you will see that this tube sprouts 3 wires. Actually, if the circuit breaker panel or fuse box is not in the same room as the dryer, most modern code will not allow it to be direct wired like it is.

I have the 6 cup size of the Revere Designer's Group tea pot like in your picture. I knew that two sizes of tea kettles were made for the line, but did not know that the tea pot came in a larger size. So many of these little tea pots were ruined when people boiled water in them forgetting that water is boiled in the tea kettle and tea is brewed in the tea pot.


Post# 82039 , Reply# 58   9/7/2005 at 11:39 (6,777 days old) by Unimatic1140 (Minneapolis)        
As the Homeowner THIS IS IMPORTANT...

unimatic1140's profile picture
Hi Mike, as the homeowner you really need to know how that dryer works. I don't mean to be a stinker here, but for your saftey this is important. I'm sure Tom is correct that the pipe you see contains 220volt electrical wires. There would be no way to run the motor, timer or overhead console fluorescent lamp without electricity. An oil fired dryer would cause an incredible amount of soot and would be very against code in the USA. Can you take a picture of your circuit breaker box? The dryer is most likely hooked up to one of your 30amp breakers. It's important that you know how to cut power to the dryer just in case of an emergency. All GE gas dryers from that era have a little door at the bottom of the front of dryer, all electric ones are door free, such as your dryer.

Post# 82041 , Reply# 59   9/7/2005 at 11:45 (6,777 days old) by Tomturbomatic (Beltsville, MD)        

Allen, I think the first Americana product from GE was the range with the oven above the cooktop. It was offered with just the cooktop and upper oven that sat on a base cabinet and also with a larger oven below. It was introduced in the early 60s to compete with all of the ranges that followed Tappan's Fabulous 400: Frigidaire's Flair, Roper's Charmless, Westinghouse's Continental, Hotpoint's Hallmark and a host of ugly wannabees. We have the first GE Americana refrigerator with the countertop between the French-doors that opened to reveal the fresh food section above and the roll out freezer section below. The Americana dishwasher had, briefly in the early 70s, two detergent cups and infinite switches on the control panel that allowed selection of longer or shorter washing & drying times from the midpoint default setting. By increasing the time that current ran to the timer motor the cycle portions could be shortened and by decreasing the amount of time that current ran to the timer motor, the washing and drying times could be increased.

Post# 82044 , Reply# 60   9/7/2005 at 12:05 (6,777 days old) by Tomturbomatic (Beltsville, MD)        

Mike, Another thing about the dryer is that it looks like the 4 inch vent is adapted down to a three inch rigid vent pipe. I don't know where the vent travels on its way to the outside, but if you ever have the chance to increase the whole run to 4 inch rigid pipe, it should be done and, at the same time, the flexible duct behind the dryer should be greatly shortened or eliminated. It will mean removing a clamp before you can pull the dryer out for cleaning or service, but all of that vent tube behind there is not safe. Any restrictions in an electric dryer's vent system can cause early failure of the heating elements because they run hotter with the restricted air flow over them. This can be a factor in dryer fires, too. You want to keep this beauty working right for many years like all owners of fine appliance treasures.

Post# 82046 , Reply# 61   9/7/2005 at 12:58 (6,777 days old) by versatronic ()        
I hear you

I hear what you guys are saying. Could this oil dryer actually be an electric dryer? Well, yes, it could, despite the following items:

I bought the house from the sole heir of a deceased couple. The woman's husband seemed to know everything about the house. He told me the dryer was an oil dryer, which is the only reason he didn't pilfer the dryer before the house was sold. "I couldn't get 30 bucks for that dryer. Who wants an oil dryer?"

When I called the repair man to fix my dryer, I don't recall saying please come and fix my oil dryer. I recall just asking him to come and fix the belt. My recollection was that I just asked him to come fix it. I recall him saying, without provocation "Wow, I've never seen an oil dryer before." If I had said it was an oil dryer, he opened it up, replaced a belt and found nothing to dissuade him that it was indeed an oil dryer.

Obviously, the people who built the place overbuilt it and provided for just about every modern convenience that was available at the time. The guy who originally built the place was connected to the biz in someway and wasn't going to skimp anywhere. And he decided that rather than put a 220 plug in the laundry room for an electric dryer, he was going grab some spare copper tubing left over from connecting the oil tanks to the oil burner/heater unit, drill a hole in the floor, rip the plug out of the versatronic, direct wire a 220 line from the fuse box, through the hole in the floor, through the tube, and into the dryer.

Despite these events and oddities, could I in fact have an electric dryer rather than an oil dryer. Yes, and dammit, we're going to get to the bottom of it.


Post# 82049 , Reply# 62   9/7/2005 at 13:16 (6,777 days old) by toggleswitch (New York City, NY)        

toggleswitch's profile picture
I BELIEVE YOU!
I BELIEVE YOU!


so now the quesiton is is this thing home-brewed? probably not.

BUT DAMN it is thought-provoking.
Be forewarned there is already buzz as to distance to be traversed to get to you.

Beware of washer-heads bearing coffee cakes and inviting themselves in to inspect your...... toys..... and the parts that make them up.



Post# 82050 , Reply# 63   9/7/2005 at 13:18 (6,777 days old) by toggleswitch (New York City, NY)        

toggleswitch's profile picture
List Mikey

We all just heard from you (and have reasonably good proof) the earth is round, when we ALL knwo it is indeed flat. ("No such this as an oil-fiired dryer" HA) so cut us some slack ..

SO, that said.... when are YOU hostng the next wash-in?

LOL LOL LOL
Who loves ya baby?


Post# 82051 , Reply# 64   9/7/2005 at 13:24 (6,777 days old) by toggleswitch (New York City, NY)        

toggleswitch's profile picture
Listen.


Gete JasonL over there to make a video/ DVD with sound and sell it for $15 bucks a pop. I see money to be made here.I'm sure we'd all even chip in to get jason a round trip ticket. I'm sure he won't mind leaving Lousisiana just for a few days..

All you have to do is pry open the rear and stick the camera inside.. LOL

I'd loved just to hear the flame ignite (and the sequence of events leading to it) and figure out if the ffame size modulates, or like today's gas stuff cycles on and off.

I STILL belileve you Babe.



Post# 82053 , Reply# 65   9/7/2005 at 13:47 (6,777 days old) by thirtyater ()        

I want to believe! There has to be a 110 volt line out of that thing though if it is fuel oil. It is VERY unlikely that it runs out the bottom. Maybe there is a fuel oil generator in there too. ;) On the down side, on my 1957 GE dryer there is a recessed panel on the lower back side where the vent comes out and the power line goes in the top of that recessed panel. That fuel line looks like it goes in the exact same way and spot my power line goes in. Oil or electric I still love it though.

By-the-way, I had a relative that was a foreman at GE's appliance park in Louisville, KY in the late 50's thru late 60's. I remember him mentioning the defunct models museum at appliance park. Has anyone else heard of this? If so was it open to public or just for company research?


Post# 82055 , Reply# 66   9/7/2005 at 13:54 (6,777 days old) by toggleswitch (New York City, NY)        

toggleswitch's profile picture
I SO WANT TO BELIEVE TOO..


1) An oil line would not curve up like that, and would probably feed lower into the machine. and yes there would probably be a filter and a valve near the machine.


2) There would be a plug-and-cord for the 110v "accessories" and motor.

I WANT to believe I WANT to believe...

Could it be that the hubby was speaking in front of the wife, and continuing a decades old hoax? Did she have an aversion to the cost of running an electric dryer?

I am so confused...








Post# 82056 , Reply# 67   9/7/2005 at 13:58 (6,777 days old) by Petek (Ontari ari ari O )        

petek's profile picture
If it is oil fired wouldn't there be a pilot light somewhere as well with access? This machine would pre date electronic ignition wouldn't it, even for a gas model.

Post# 82062 , Reply# 68   9/7/2005 at 14:23 (6,777 days old) by toggleswitch (New York City, NY)        

toggleswitch's profile picture
IMHO usually oil-burners (in a domestic setting) have a sparking-gap electrode ignition system.

In large commercial /industrial seetings there is uaually a natural gas standing pilot light... (in theold days oil was burned due to its cheaper cost over natural gas.)

Rule of thumb #1, the dirtier the fuel is the less expensive it is.

Rule of thumb #2 the dirtier you want your paid companion to be the MORE they charge.


Post# 82064 , Reply# 69   9/7/2005 at 15:20 (6,777 days old) by deeptub (Carbondale, IL)        

deeptub's profile picture
I hope its an oil dryer too, but that fuel line looks a lot like the brownish braided cloth covered electrical cable I've become so familiar with at my partner's house. I can't imagine a copper line with such a bend in it.
T.


Post# 82065 , Reply# 70   9/7/2005 at 15:25 (6,777 days old) by versatronic ()        
The Silver Lining

I think some of you guys misunderstood my previous post. You really do have me convinced that it is an electric dryer. I believe. I was laying out the case why I thought it was an oil dryer so you could understand how someone like me could believe something like that. You know, so you wouldn't think I was a complete dumbass. Now I know that the excitment of discovering an oil dryer has now morphed into a room full of hollywood loafs, but there is a big sliver lining in all this, but only for me, not you guys. Had the guy who sold me the place not truly thought it was an oil dryer, he would have dragged it out of the place never to be seen again. He said he would leave a lot of stuff behind but didn't, only the stuff that I was smart enough to put into the contract, like the kitchen table for instance, except for the dryer. So it was the misconception that allowed me to gain possession of this wonderful machine. And I won't love it any more or less because of how its powered. And it's still the best dryer I ever owned. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.


Post# 82067 , Reply# 71   9/7/2005 at 15:33 (6,777 days old) by veg-o-matic (Baltimore, Hon!)        

veg-o-matic's profile picture
Gas, oil, hamster in a wheel. Who cares? It's still a cool looking machine!

veg


Post# 82068 , Reply# 72   9/7/2005 at 15:44 (6,777 days old) by Launderess (Quiet Please, There´s a Lady on Stage)        
There is really only one way

launderess's profile picture
To settle this hash! *LOL*

Someone is going to have to either have a peep at the back of the dryer (away from the wall), or get the model and serial number so things can be researched.

Would LOVE for this to be an oil fired dryer, but several things come to mind:

Being that the oil is downstairs in the basment,and the dryer on the ground floor, wouldn't some sort of pump be required to push the oil up from the tanks?

Next is the problem of soot and emissions. Oil is not very clean buring, and can imagine there might be a whiff about whenever the dryer was operating.

Burner maintainence, sooner or later most oil burners would need to be cleaned, so how would one do this with a dryer.

Again, not trying to rain on anyone's parade, but inquiring minds want to know. Maybe a few members could offer to come out and help you carefully and safely pull the dryer away from the wall to better suss this thing out. Even if it is an oil burning dryer, the above suggestions regarding the swapping out of the vent hosing should be done, and probably a good cleaning out of link/gunk from inside the machine as well.

Just my two bobs worth

Launderess


Post# 82069 , Reply# 73   9/7/2005 at 15:46 (6,777 days old) by toggleswitch (New York City, NY)        
Adding more fuel to the fire.

toggleswitch's profile picture
Could the guy have said "Old-tired" not "oil-fired?" dryer

oooh a tongue twister.

LOL


Post# 82071 , Reply# 74   9/7/2005 at 15:50 (6,777 days old) by toggleswitch (New York City, NY)        

toggleswitch's profile picture
ah and what does the badge/label/nameplate inside the door say?


120/240 volts
60hz AC
5,600 watts (or 5.6KW)
3-wire

or similar?


Post# 82072 , Reply# 75   9/7/2005 at 15:52 (6,777 days old) by gansky1 (Omaha, The Home of the TV Dinner!)        
Easy to see...

gansky1's profile picture
Turn the dryer to run on a heat-cycle, open the door while pressing the door switch and start the machine. If it glows red behind the revolving drum, it's electric.

It makes sense, many early dryers were hard-wired and had three inch vents - this one was just adapted to the existing connections.


Post# 82080 , Reply# 76   9/7/2005 at 16:30 (6,777 days old) by GEExtraRinse (Hudson Valley, New York )        
has anyone ever heard of...

geextrarinse's profile picture
an oil fired dryer? - I didn't think such a thing even existed - I too am hopeful as the wonders never cease on here - but I think that one of you guys would have known of such a thing - were there ever any made or could this just be an adaptation or fluke if at all?

Just curious.... not downplaying anyone!

Hey Mike - btw... where in Harrisburg are you - I'll be passing thru next week on weds morn on my way to Ohio - will you be around?


Post# 82081 , Reply# 77   9/7/2005 at 16:36 (6,777 days old) by Versatronic ()        
It's time to butter my butt

Now that I'm home from work, I reached back and that is not a copper tube, although it is the same size as the copper tubing elsewhere in my house. It is flexible. It is electric. I really believed what I was told. The only time I ever had a fleeting doubt was when doing something in that area and I'd think it was odd there was no cord plugged into a receptable to power the lights and buzzer and such. That did puzzle me.

There a number on the serial plate that appears to say 122002 V but it's hard to make out. Another number says MC228 587 and that number I'm pretty much sure of. It also say 240 Volts a few time, gives the wattage, and mentions Appliance Park, Louiville Kentucky.

I guess if oil dryers never really existed, it would explain why this got peoples attention.


Post# 82083 , Reply# 78   9/7/2005 at 17:03 (6,777 days old) by Versatronic ()        
A Preview

For all the people who want a tour of my place, in this thread, and the other one I accidently started, here's the scoop. First, I will take complete pictures of the place at some point and you can get a virtual tour. I'll put the pics in the Super forum when I do. But not until I deal with the Kelvinator issue.

As far as having a get together here, that sounds great. One of my best friends who works for one of the best breweries in America has offered to supply the beer free of charge. He might want to put a little up a little sign that says "This space age bachelor pad sponsored by Troegs" or something, but that's it. However, none of this can be done until after I deal with this Kelvinator issue. I've got to deal with that now.

Now, if you happen to be in the Harrisburg area, well of course you can stop in and I'll give you tour, we can pull out the toys and check them out, tip some Mai Tais in the tiki bar, whatever you want to do. Just email me if you'll be in town and I'll make every effort to meet up with you.

Also, at some point in the near future, I will post pictures of what I believe to be a '50's GE Oven/Stove combo that blew me away. It's at my friend's sister-in-laws place and we stopped in to see it on the way back from picking up the Kelvinator. I was completely floored.

If you are going to be in town, below is the kind of thing you can expect to find here.


Post# 82094 , Reply# 79   9/7/2005 at 18:26 (6,777 days old) by goatfarmer (South Bend, home of Champions)        

goatfarmer's profile picture
You're in Harrisburg,and you don't drink Yuengling?
Like Veg sez,it's still a neat dryer no matter how the heating system works.

kennyGF


Post# 82098 , Reply# 80   9/7/2005 at 19:02 (6,777 days old) by goatfarmer (South Bend, home of Champions)        

goatfarmer's profile picture
Tell us more about the Kelvy experience.

kennyGF


Post# 82103 , Reply# 81   9/7/2005 at 19:38 (6,777 days old) by Tomturbomatic (Beltsville, MD)        

Now that I'm home, I checked my dryer's #s and the model is 1220D2W. The W is the color. I caught hell for missing that D the first time I went to look it up for parts and the serial is RC219 386. Pretty soon it will be time to switch from the gas outdoor dryers to the electric inside ones as I do everything to keep the heating bills down and the temperature inside up.

Post# 82104 , Reply# 82   9/7/2005 at 19:42 (6,777 days old) by appnut (TX)        

appnut's profile picture
Mike, each picture just keeps gettin better & better & more interesting--that last one above.

NOW FOR THE DISHWASHER. Yes, use the substance Tomturbomatic told you to use to rid the iron. But, do the following because the detergent dispenser cup does NOT open until after the main wash fill. So, here's what ya do. Put in that ctric stuff in the dispenser cup and close it. Then, START the dishwasher and let it fill with water as normal. Once the filling water has stopped, unlatch the door and have it stop. Then advance the timer knob until you hear the cup plop open. Then restart the machine. If there's that much iron, I'm somewhat concerne3d the solenoid may be full of debris and it's not getting it's full allotment of 1.5+ gallons per fill. Bob


Post# 82113 , Reply# 83   9/7/2005 at 20:07 (6,777 days old) by Versatronic ()        
The Kelvy Experience

The Kelvinator story. I been snooping around for a new vintage fridge for years. I've been close to purchasing a fridge several times, and each time something went bad. Like I purchased a fridge in the Midwest. A beautiful turquoise fridge. Had everything I was looking for. I arranged for the shipping which cost a fortune since the guy didn't live near any major arteries. The owner offered to crate it for me. When he tried to move it with a handtruck, it fell off the handtruck and damaged it. I cancelled the sale. The next one was about an hour and a half away from me. White GE with the lazy susan shelves. It was beautiful. That fell through. You get the idea. So, before I was a member here, I surfed this place and someone pointed out an eBay listing for three matching turquoise kelvinator appliances. I really only was interested in the fridge, although I would have picked up the matching dishwasher for a good price.

Well this story gets long and involved. Apparently the buyer I was buying from bought the appliance on eBay from the custodian. Then her new house deal fell through and she couldn't use them. These appliances were still in the custody of the original seller and they were in a shed in the backyard among a pile of debris and for all intents and purposes, completely open to the elements. They have been in complete squalor for months or possibly as much as two years. So, based on the listing, I'm expecting a fridge that is in terrific shape that's ready to plug in and use. I drive two and a half hours to pick it up and find these three appliances in this condition. I was mortified. I had to dig around in the debris to find the bottom grate cover. It was covered in crap, was rusting, had white house paint all over it. It was unreal. I was torn over whether to just drive back without it or not. I chose to bring it back for a number of reasons. I had already moved my working fridge down into the basement. Oh, and when they were stored, they didn't crack open the doors, so the inside is overwhelmed with mold and mildew and smells horrible.

There's a lot more to this story, but those are the basics. I now have this beast in my kitchen, where it's been leaking for 3 days now. It buckled one of my kitchen floor tiles, like huge bubbles coming up out of the tile. I put a heavy garden stone over it this morning flatten it and pray it will dry back into shape. I have tried various cleaners on the outside. Some are too strong and are taking a thin layer of turquoise paint off. Fantastic seems to be working the best for me but even with that, to get it fairly clean of the crap on it, I'm thinning the paint. I'm afraid that this thing is going to require a repaint for it to truly look great again. The white house paint splattered all over it will not come off easily. I posted one pic of the inside of the fridge in the Super forum. Well, the moderator moved the thread there, but the name of the thread is "Thanks". I have other pics to document the condition. I didn't contact the seller yet, but I'm very unhappy. And the woman who bought the stove, I contacted her and warned her about the actual condition of these appliances. She cancelled the pick-up by craters and freighters, but she sent a blank check to the woman and the bank won't put a stop payment on it.

There's more to this bad experience, but those are the basics. If I'm lucky, I'll have refrigeration in my main floor in a couple of weeks. Until them, I have to go to the basement. I plugged in a fridge down there to use until I either get this thing cleaned up for use or decide to scrap it.


CLICK HERE TO GO TO Versatronic's LINK on eBay


Post# 82116 , Reply# 84   9/7/2005 at 20:19 (6,777 days old) by Versatronic ()        
The Dishwasher

Here's the info you wanted appnut. The four buttons say, from left to right, daily loads, pots pans, rinse hold, and china crystal.

Thanks for the comments on the house. Outside of my circle of friends, nobody's really seen this place. It's just my private little hobby/getaway. Speaking of getaway's, if the battery holds out, I may be able to post some pictures of another room.


Post# 82118 , Reply# 85   9/7/2005 at 20:26 (6,777 days old) by fixerman ()        
Serial Number to tell age

There is not a "C" for the date code on the web site I posted earlier. Could the second digit be a "G"? If so it was probably manufactured in 1968 if the code repeats every 12 years. As for the model no. it seems to be missing the first letters. GE's usually begin with DDE or DDG. The older ones sometimes with the numeral 1 (on washers anyway). If the plate was worn off maybe the prefix letters were no longer visible, and only the stamped characters remained.

Post# 82122 , Reply# 86   9/7/2005 at 20:41 (6,777 days old) by Versatronic ()        

Fixerman, I looked at it again and yes, it could be a G instead of a C, so it is probably MG228 587. Does that date it to 68? Who would have believed that an appliance built in '68 would still have an atomic symbol on it?

Kenny, Yuengling is ok, but once you try a Troegs, you'll never yearn for a Yuengling again. Rated as one of the top microbreweries in the world at rateabeer.com, they make that necktar of the God's right here in good old Harrisburg PA. If you like beer, they make it best.

Nobody's yelled at me yet, so here's a pic of a little corner of the homestead.



Post# 82124 , Reply# 87   9/7/2005 at 20:47 (6,777 days old) by Versatronic ()        

And as for that other number I posted, 122002 V, there are definitely no characters in front of that. The serial plate is acutally in terrific condition, just hard to read because of the glare, and maybe my eyes are going bad.

Post# 82131 , Reply# 88   9/7/2005 at 21:15 (6,777 days old) by cybrvanr ()        

I've got family in the Harrisburg area...look for "Winner" in the phone book. Chances are they are descandants of me from long down the family tree. I'm usually passing thru the Harrisburg area on my way to Williamsport during the summer for the yearly family re-union.

NEAT HOME! I love the retro / 50's stuff you have! I'll hafta drop in sometime as I pass thru!


Post# 82132 , Reply# 89   9/7/2005 at 21:21 (6,777 days old) by tlee618 ()        

Hi Mike, The pictures of your place are just amazing. How long have you been collecting? Thanks so much for sharing with us. Terry

Post# 82133 , Reply# 90   9/7/2005 at 21:22 (6,777 days old) by veg-o-matic (Baltimore, Hon!)        

veg-o-matic's profile picture
Oh, my! I just...just...dang, get me a tissue!

veg


Post# 82139 , Reply# 91   9/7/2005 at 21:42 (6,777 days old) by Versatronic ()        
Collecting

I checked out your place in the "crap" thread veg, and your place looks great.

I started collecting stuff about 15 years ago now. Or more. I just have really loved the style. When I saw this place, I was just blown away by it and I thought how good some of my stuff would look against this great canvas. This new house was much bigger than my old house, so I didn't have nearly enough furniture and other stuff to furnish the entire, so I stepped up the hunt, scouring flea markets, use furniture stores, and now look for bargains on eBay as well. Some of my favorite stuff that I bought years before I found this place still have a permanent place in the bachelor pad. Like that leopard skin love seat or whatever you call it. I was on South Street in Philly and walked into a used clothing store and there it was. It was just for people to sit and rest on, not for sale. I made her an offer for it and she took it. We were in my friends compact car with no way to get it home. She offered to meet me halfway the next weekend. We met at a diner halfway on the turnpike, ate and talked to each other, went out to my van, made wild hot monkey love in the back, loaded the coach in my van, and years later, it seemed at home in the tiki lounge. Every piece has a story to it. Well, OK, I made up the part about the monkey love, but we did eat at Zinn's diner together and I was attracted to her.



Post# 82142 , Reply# 92   9/7/2005 at 21:48 (6,777 days old) by Versatronic ()        
Grand Server

See that "coffee table" above. That's the "Grand Server". I could give you the history on it. The top swings open and inside there is a removable boomerang with legs that serves as a tray. Then you reach in and pull up the middle to reveal your stash of fine bottles of liquor. It's pretty much a bar. Don't want the kids to raid your liquor supply? It comes with a key that allows you to a) open up a side door where you keep the glasses and b) prevents the top from sliding open. You don't see these around too often. There were a couple of color variations on this one. I've only seen two ever in this color scheme and in my opinion, this is the best one of the bunch.

Post# 82165 , Reply# 93   9/7/2005 at 22:56 (6,777 days old) by rickr (.)        

rickr's profile picture
Very nice collection there Mike! And welcome to the club! You have found the right group,that will appreciate your fantastic collection. Thanks for sharing the photos,and the detailed descriptions with us! (:
Rick


Post# 82177 , Reply# 94   9/8/2005 at 00:07 (6,777 days old) by Petek (Ontari ari ari O )        

petek's profile picture
Seems like we have the very same tastes in furniture and accessories and lamps. LOL
Now comes the question!!!!
What kind of vacuum cleaner do you have?


Post# 82214 , Reply# 95   9/8/2005 at 06:09 (6,777 days old) by toggleswitch (New York City, NY)        

toggleswitch's profile picture
Actually my dear sir,

IMHO, people are like water and elecricity. They take the path of least resistance. I'm thinking the dryer remained in the house BECAUSE it was hard-wired and the lazy-@$$ owner did not want to disconnect it. Lucky you!


Post# 82249 , Reply# 96   9/8/2005 at 09:04 (6,777 days old) by versatronic ()        
Vacuum Cleaners

Well, my answer to the vacuum cleaner question will probably disappoint you. When I bought this place, I spent a lot of time picking out the rugs I wanted for each room and given today's carpet styles and available colors, it wasn't easy. It took me weeks to do this before I moved one item into the place. And it was at a tremendous expense. I had 2 old vacuums of my own, an old Electrolux canister type and an upright sears. The people who sold me the house left behind a crazy little vacuum cleaner that doesn't have a bag (as I recall, it's still sitting in a bedroom closet) but a cone of some type the the dirt goes into. The thing is old. When I tried to vacuum the rugs, none of these things would pick up everything and do a good job. The Electrolux had lost its power for some reason. It just wasn't sucking up the stuff. I have two cats, by the way. The Sears wasn't doing it. So I bought a Phantom used and allegedly reconditioned at a flea market. This seemed to be working pretty well but it suddenly stopped doing the job. The brush inside had stopped turning. Well, I've replaced the belts on the Sears upright before, so I set out to try to fix it. It seems that the bottom of the Phantom upright was hermetically sealed, never to be opened up again. And when I unscrewed screws hoping to open up the contraption, all I managed to do was dislodge important operating parts from this designation location. But could not and am convinced that there was no way to get inside.

I just couldn't take it anymore. I was sick of underperforming vacuum cleaners and cleaners that required tinkering every time you used it. All I wanted was clean rugs. I went to the oreck dealer and traded in the Phantom for their 2 speed upright that comes with a portable canister set. 8 year warranty. And it will suck the testicles off a rhino from 6 feet away. I works great.

I made a solemn vow to myself when I bought my house to work as long as it takes to have NOTHING in the place that is not a classic, vintage, yet usable item. And that's still my goal and I get closer to this goal all the time. However, I'm making one exception. I want a damn vacuum cleaner that just works. I don't care about the styling anymore (the Electrolux is sweet looking!) or what year it was made. I just want one that's hassle free and vacuums all the varying types of carpet I have throughout the bachelor pad, from Astroturf, to commercial, to thick plush 2 inch thick Karastan.

I still have the Electrolux and the weird canister vac with the cone in it. If you back your wood paneled station wagon up to my house, I'll carry them outside and put them in myself.



Post# 82303 , Reply# 97   9/8/2005 at 17:58 (6,776 days old) by tolivac (greenville nc)        

versatronic:Could the Vacuum you have "that has a cone in it" be a filter Queen?The Filter Queen vacuum is a canister vac with a paper filter cone under the top motor housing.The dirt is collected under the paper cone in the base container.Filter Queens can loose their power from a clogged main paper cone-which is usually replaced every month.Another filter in the machine is under the cone guard-metal or plastic cone shaped part that rests in the main paper cone--There is a screw in "point" of the cone guard on the power dome-Remove the screw and the coneguard.Under this is another filter-a paper disc type filter-this is a "safety" filter that protects the motor in case the regular one leaks or someone tries to use the machine without the paper cone.Any good vacuum cleaner store would have packages of the filter cones-and the pack contains a flat filter.Usually the flat filter is replaced once a year.The Filter Queen is a good vacuum-esp the vintage ones-all metal and a more powerful motor than current ones.

Post# 82373 , Reply# 98   9/9/2005 at 00:36 (6,776 days old) by kenmore1978 ()        
vacuum cleaners

Post pics of the vacuums and maybe we cna diagnose them

Post# 82388 , Reply# 99   9/9/2005 at 04:13 (6,776 days old) by Petek (Ontari ari ari O )        

petek's profile picture
Hmmm..an Oreck, you're just going to have to hide it and get a decent vintage vacuum that works properly like a good old Hoover or Eureka or a Kirby..I'd drop one off if I was closer. They make vacuuming fun, like it's supposed to be.

Post# 82402 , Reply# 100   9/9/2005 at 06:48 (6,776 days old) by toggleswitch (New York City, NY)        

toggleswitch's profile picture
Vacuuming is fun?

Personally I think it sucks.. LOL LOL LOL LOL


Post# 82405 , Reply# 101   9/9/2005 at 06:51 (6,776 days old) by Versatronic ()        
The Filter Queen

I went to look at the filter queen. It wasn't there. I forgot. Not long ago, in my frustration, I realized I had 4 vacuum cleaners, count 'em 4, vacuum cleaners, and not one of them would be nice to me. And I banned them from my house forever. I rolled the Filter Queen to the end of my drive-way and it now lives in a land fill. I wish I would have joined this club earlier. I would have gladly mailed it to someone who would appreciate it.

So my inventory now is the Oreck and a 1964 Electrolux Model 6. The manual is dated 1964 (cool graphics). I kept it for sentimental reasons.


Post# 82406 , Reply# 102   9/9/2005 at 06:53 (6,776 days old) by Mayken4now (Panama City, Florida)        

mayken4now's profile picture
Love all the fun vintage home pics. But I do have a question..........

Where is a pic of the vintage computer that you are using to communicate all these beauties? ( I know you don't have one, so it's not all vintage in every room is it?)

Steve


Post# 82413 , Reply# 103   9/9/2005 at 07:48 (6,776 days old) by Tomturbomatic (Beltsville, MD)        

Vacuuming is fun??!?! Not even with a central vac. One thing about it is nice, though. I have hoses and attachments on all three floors. When I spot a non-resident life form flying or crawling around, the first thing I do is connect the hose and fire up that big unit in the shop. Then it's a one way trip to the big bug bin to which I have thoughtfully added a few moth balls so that if they have survived the travel arrangements, they won't have to endure the accommodations.

Post# 82414 , Reply# 104   9/9/2005 at 07:51 (6,776 days old) by toggleswitch (New York City, NY)        

toggleswitch's profile picture
SURE...

Use it, abuse it, and when you dont get what you need immeidaltely, you kick the Queen to the curb.

You expect a Queen to be nice? Poor disillusioned man..


HRUMMMMPHHHHHH!


LOL ROFL LMAO




Post# 82418 , Reply# 105   9/9/2005 at 08:33 (6,776 days old) by versatronic ()        
My computer

I'm at work so I can't take a pic of the computer but you can see the same model in the link I provided. It was hell trying to get this thing into my office.

CLICK HERE TO GO TO versatronic's LINK


Post# 82712 , Reply# 106   9/10/2005 at 20:17 (6,774 days old) by Timonator ()        
HAHAHA!!!

This post just keeps getting better everyday....I cant wait to read...whats posted here tomorrow....Tim

Post# 82817 , Reply# 107   9/11/2005 at 19:23 (6,773 days old) by lightedcontrols ()        
WHOA!!!!!!!!!!!!!

GOTTA TELL YA...............YOU GOT IT GOIN OOOOOOOONNNNNNN!!! MArk

Post# 83430 , Reply# 108   9/15/2005 at 15:58 (6,769 days old) by veg-o-matic (Baltimore, Hon!)        

veg-o-matic's profile picture
Vers, where do you find your curtains?

veg


Post# 83463 , Reply# 109   9/15/2005 at 21:20 (6,769 days old) by versatronic ()        
Curtains

Either at flea markets or on eBay.

Post# 952016 , Reply# 110   8/7/2017 at 20:10 (2,425 days old) by DWSpiro (Boston)        
Versatronic Wiring

I know this is an old post, but I'm hoping someone with this (or similar) model can help me out. We have a Versatronic - but the completely electric one (not oil). When I took the top off last week to get to the drum and replace the belt, about four of the wires from the pin block came out. Problem is, there were quite a off options on where to re-connect. Did the best I could and it's working, but not heating - so I'm sure I haven't connected everything properly.

If someone has a similar model, I'd appreciate a photo (or several) of the pin block so I can compare the colored wires. There is a schematic on the back of the dryer, but that really doesn't help me too much.

Thanks!!


Post# 952158 , Reply# 111   8/8/2017 at 11:46 (2,424 days old) by combo52 (50 Year Repair Tech Beltsville,Md)        
Reconnecting Wires On A GE Dryer

combo52's profile picture

The label does show where the wires go, if that does not help you post a picture of the junction area where the wires came apart and I may be able to help you get them back in the correct places.

 

John L.

 

 



Forum Index:       Other Forums:                      



Comes to the Rescue!

The Discuss-o-Mat has stopped, buzzer is sounding!!!
If you would like to reply to this thread please log-in...

Discuss-O-MAT Log-In



New Members
Click Here To Sign Up.



                     


automaticwasher.org home
Discuss-o-Mat Forums
Vintage Brochures, Service and Owners Manuals
Fun Vintage Washer Ephemera
See It Wash!
Video Downloads
Audio Downloads
Picture of the Day
Patent of the Day
Photos of our Collections
The Old Aberdeen Farm
Vintage Service Manuals
Vintage washer/dryer/dishwasher to sell?
Technical/service questions?
Looking for Parts?
Website related questions?
Digital Millennium Copyright Act Policy
Our Privacy Policy