Thread Number: 47404
Looking for a good used top load machine, advice?
[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# 688418   7/10/2013 at 09:38 (3,914 days old) by leica ()        

Hello, this is my first post in this forum, which I stumbled upon in my quest to find a dependable top load washer. I would LOVE to buy a new Speed Queen but unfortunately I cannot afford one, so I have been looking for used machines. I called a couple of local used appliance stores looking for Speed Queens, but got answers from "They are out of business" to "We throw the used ones out for scrap because of bad seals, bearings and brakes" and "SQ is made by Whirlpool". I got the feeling these guys don't like SQ machines so I took to craigslist and found these:

tampa.craigslist.org/hdo/app/3900...

The problem is the people selling have no idea what model and what year they were made because they do not live on the property, and the property is about a two hour drive from me. Is it worth the drive to pick these up? Also, since used SQ machines seem pretty scarce, what are some other good machines to look for?





Post# 688428 , Reply# 1   7/10/2013 at 10:04 (3,914 days old) by Yogitunes (New Jersey)        

yogitunes's profile picture
Speed Queen is very much still in business.....they are owned by Alliance, and thats what you want to see on the model number plate......

the models in your link from CL, these you want to tend to avoid, they are made by Raytheon, and are prone to seal failures, and belt chewing....not all are like that, but its the reputation that they have....

keep your eyes open, and you will be suprised, they do turn up from time to time, even on ebay.....

there could be a number of machines, vintage so to speak, that will outlast most anything made today....it's a matter of personal preference....Whirlpool, Maytag, Kenmore, GE, Frigidaire 1-18's......

a personal preference of a TLer for me would be a GeneralElectric FilterFlo with minibasket....prefer one close to top of the line.....if your gonna have one daily driver this would be my choice, with all the available cycles and options, the variations for any load is endless.......some consider them waterhogs, but it has great capacity and the rinsing is always clear......then again, everyone has an opinion of what they think is the best one to get.....weigh the results for yourself....


Post# 688434 , Reply# 2   7/10/2013 at 11:13 (3,914 days old) by leica ()        

Well basically I want a washer that does a good job, is dependable, but if something does break is easy to get parts for and easy to fix. I work on my cars, so I think I could handle a washing machine :)

I will look into the GE, but any other recommendations on good machines that are plentiful would be great, even rare machines to look out for also as I will be watching CL closely.

I have already found this, Amana "commercial quality" washer and dryer without a model number although it does look like it has a stainless tub. Opinions?

tampa.craigslist.org/pnl/app/3926...


Post# 688467 , Reply# 3   7/10/2013 at 13:48 (3,914 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)        

frigilux's profile picture
Parts are still available for Whirlpool/Kenmore direct drive machines, aren't they? I'd bet there are many available used. People must have liked them---a billion were sold.

Post# 688469 , Reply# 4   7/10/2013 at 14:08 (3,914 days old) by Kenmoreguy64 (Charlotte, NC)        

kenmoreguy64's profile picture
I was going to recommend a DD washer myself. Brands include Whirlpool, Kenmore, Estate, Roper, and some Maytag, Admiral, and Crosley. Maybe a few others too including Kirkland.

I suspect the DD machines are among if not THE most widely produced washer ever, anywhere. They are known for their ease of service and overall reliability.

Yes, parts are still available, in fact some models are still in limited production, so there won't be mass parts shortages for many years to come. Plus, since there is such a wide distribution network and consumption for these parts, there are a number of aftermarket companies making parts for these machines, so even if Whirlpool were to decide to stop making parts, ERP and Supco, others too probably, have many commonly used parts that could be used (I dont like aftermarket parts as a rule, but they're better than nothing).

For someone who isn't a washer enthusiast, just wants to reliably wash laundry, this is what I would suggest. Service for a DD should be available anywhere, and much more readily than service for a vintage unit that may require older, specialized knowledge.

Gordon


Post# 688484 , Reply# 5   7/10/2013 at 15:38 (3,914 days old) by leica ()        

How do I know which machines are direct drive?

Problem with CL is 80% of the listings don't include a model# or even a picture so it's kinda hard to tell what is what.


Post# 688487 , Reply# 6   7/10/2013 at 16:02 (3,914 days old) by Kenmoreguy64 (Charlotte, NC)        

kenmoreguy64's profile picture
Almost everything on Craigslist is direct drive right now. The first generation belt-drives ended production in 1987. You would know by the 1980s or older look of the machine that it was older. You might skip some early direct drives this way, but there are plenty of newer ones. Maybe start by looking only at color-matched console models, this will exclude machines from the mid 1990s and older.

There have been some of the newer belt-drive Whirlpool machines on C/L also, but not many.

Here in Charlotte anyway, so many machines are available, with pictures, that we can easily tell you if a washer is a direct drive or not. Just link us the ad and someone will undoubtedly let you know.

One thing on your side if you make your selection properly --- the area where you live has so many retirees and snow birds that the likelihood of finding a low mileage machine is probably much better than in areas where there are mostly families with kids, etc.

Gordon


Post# 688509 , Reply# 7   7/10/2013 at 17:29 (3,914 days old) by Yogitunes (New Jersey)        

yogitunes's profile picture
I don't how far a drive it would be for you......but check out ShoppersSquare....and look at the post "Pair of Queens"....real nice set at a real nice price

Post# 688544 , Reply# 8   7/10/2013 at 20:12 (3,913 days old) by dustin92 (Jackson, MI)        

Personally, I would say go for the Speed Queens you posted from c/l. We had almost the exact same machine from 1994-2007 and all it ever needed was one belt replacement. It went through heavy use, and abuse, plus 3 moves and it still worked when we replaced it. Kenmore/Whirlpool Direct drives are also good, but look for a model with a 2 speed motor and corkscrew style agitator, because they have a very fast, short agitation stroke, which can be hard on clothes at full speed. They have a deep, narrow tub, which, in my experience, performs better with a corkscrew agitator than a one piece. Older maytags are pretty much indestructable, but most have a somewhat small capacity.

Post# 688550 , Reply# 9   7/10/2013 at 20:33 (3,913 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

dadoes's profile picture
 
Even better, find a Whirly or Kenmore (or KitchenAid) with a 3-speed motor.


Post# 688561 , Reply# 10   7/10/2013 at 20:53 (3,913 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

Those Amana machines you linked to above are also Raytheon made and should be avoided.  I had a similar pair and they were junk.  The washer was on its third belt (not exactly a cinch to replace) when I got rid of both machines after nine years, and was absolutely horrible at rinsing.  The dryer was a rattle trap from day one and it had thermostatic issues that no technician could verify.  The exhaust would smell like the clothes were being ironed, and it cooked the dryer balls I'd throw in with towels to the point that they were hard as a rock.

 

I don't care what anyone says.  Raytheon-made SQ and Amana machines have a reputation for aggravation.  Steer clear of them.

 

Whirlpool/Kenmore/KitchenAid machines are your best bet.  Certain parts can still be found for Whirlpool and Kenmore machines that were made in the 50's.   You can still consider GE, but they'd have to be fairly old or they won't be very reliable.


Post# 688590 , Reply# 11   7/10/2013 at 23:26 (3,913 days old) by DigAPony ()        
How do I know which machines are direct drive?

Filter the CL search for something under $200, by owner, with photos. More expensive asking prices often yield many later model HE (high efficiency), i.e. low water usage washers.

Kenmore Direct Drives can be identified by their side opening lids:
tampa.craigslist.org/hil/app/3907...

Here is a nice DD Whirlpool 2 speed:
tampa.craigslist.org/psc/app/3926...



Post# 688702 , Reply# 12   7/11/2013 at 09:42 (3,913 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

dadoes's profile picture
 
Kenmore Direct Drives can be identified by their side opening lids:
Not necessarily.  Belt-drive Kenmores of years past also had side-opening lids, and some later direct-drive models went to a back-opening lid.

The Kenmore 90 in the link above likely has a 3-speed motor with these agitation/spin choices.  I refurbished a similar model (pictured below) last year that has 4 water levels instead of variable as on the machine in the link.
Heavy Duty = fast/fast
Regular = slow/fast
Delicate = slow/slow
Handwash / Casual = ex-slow/slow
Handwash Plus / Fine Delicates = intermittent ex-slow/slow


Post# 688703 , Reply# 13   7/11/2013 at 09:43 (3,913 days old) by leica ()        

Thanks DigAPony, that's the kind of help I need trying to sift through CL.

Those are great looking machines but I live in St.Pete and both are quite the drive away. The Whirlpool is very tempting though. I'm gonna keep searching my area and see what pops up. Thanks to rp2813 for steering me clear of the Amana. I read a few reviews and you confirmed that it was probably a bad idea.

I'm learning a lot about washing machines haha. I have a GE front loader that's going on ten years old and it's starting to give up, rather than get it fixed we decided on a top loader for ease of use. The new HE top loaders we looked at were either too expensive or had horrible reviews so here we are. I appreciate the help and I'm having fun learning about these machines :)


Post# 688726 , Reply# 14   7/11/2013 at 11:42 (3,913 days old) by Aldspinboy (Philadelphia, Pa)        

aldspinboy's profile picture
Also very easy too identifie is its round opening.
As such in this picture .
The second round tub cap is round in All DD washers .
Some may have a black & white or greyish basket which they call
( Speckled )
Or White ..which is preferoble.
Darren k


Post# 688731 , Reply# 15   7/11/2013 at 11:57 (3,913 days old) by leica ()        

Found this Roper washer locally.....tampa.craigslist.org/pnl/app/3928...

Post# 688732 , Reply# 16   7/11/2013 at 12:00 (3,913 days old) by Aldspinboy (Philadelphia, Pa)        

aldspinboy's profile picture
2. Another set of buttons look are the type here as
well just like Dadoes explaned in the later post.
without the toggle.
There rounded .
Master control .


Post# 688733 , Reply# 17   7/11/2013 at 12:03 (3,913 days old) by Aldspinboy (Philadelphia, Pa)        

aldspinboy's profile picture
3.

Post# 688734 , Reply# 18   7/11/2013 at 12:05 (3,913 days old) by Aldspinboy (Philadelphia, Pa)        

aldspinboy's profile picture
3. Full machine .

Post# 688756 , Reply# 19   7/11/2013 at 14:16 (3,913 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

That Roper looks like a good deal, particularly so if the seller will save you the trouble of picking it up yourself and having to get rid your GE somehow.  Seems like a win/win to me.

 

 


Post# 688766 , Reply# 20   7/11/2013 at 15:21 (3,913 days old) by Kenmoreguy64 (Charlotte, NC)        
The Roper...

kenmoreguy64's profile picture
Leica -

That ad sorta takes me on vacation just by reading it --- my grandparents lived on Honeymoon Island in Pinellas County for 15 years, I LOVED it there, loved it.

Anyway, on topic, I hate to be a nay-sayer, but I would use a bit of caution on that particular Roper. That is not a Super capacity machine, its a 2.5 cu ft. "extra large" and its basket is far more tall than it is wide, and there have been turnover issues with this capacity size vs. the similar height but MUCH wider 3.2 cu ft. Super capacity models. You can tell a 2.5 cu. ft. machine by looking at the agitator base when it has a corkscrew agitator -- it has an "up flip" wing at the edge of the skirt that the Super machines don't. This is necessary to help boost roll-over or try to prevent it from stalling due to the dimensions of that particular wash basket design.

I also somewhat suspect that the Gentle cycle is going to agitate at full speed and have pauses in the cycle to make up for not using the slow speed, since this machine has only two speed combos. If it had a slow wash and slow rinse, the panel would show at least three speed combinations.

Also I think the lid may have been partially painted due to surface rust from the Floridian environment. The lid hinges are usually unpainted stainless steel, but these are white like they got over-sprayed from a spray paint can.

On a good note, that sounds like a decent seller, so I bet they have some larger capacity models, OR you can go to their store and at least see the differences in person.

Gordon


Post# 688769 , Reply# 21   7/11/2013 at 15:33 (3,913 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

I was hoping someone with more expertise would comment on the Roper -- and I hit the jackpot!  Gordon is the authority on Kenmore (and other Whirlpool derivatives like Roper). 

 

I was questioning the capacity of the Roper as well, but am not good at translating the "extra large, super, super duper, stupendous" and other such capacity claims on machines from roughly 2000 on up. 

 

Gordon's suggestion to contact the seller about other machines he may have is a good one.  You might even get a limited warranty by purchasing from him as opposed to a private party.


Post# 688824 , Reply# 22   7/11/2013 at 20:51 (3,912 days old) by spookiness (Alexandria VA)        
youtube

If you think you might want to do your own repairs, there are a lot of videos on youtube. That would also be a good resource to check out "fan" videos to help you ID DD machines.

I have an "Admirpool" DD machine from Home Depot circa two or 3 years ago.


Post# 688836 , Reply# 23   7/11/2013 at 21:14 (3,912 days old) by neptunebob (Pittsburgh, PA)        
But watch out!

neptunebob's profile picture
As a thread a while back, some Roper machines do not fill up all the way for the rinse to save water. But this programming will leave your clothes unrinsed. Perhaps ask the seller if this washer fills up all the way for the rinse cycle.

Post# 688846 , Reply# 24   7/11/2013 at 21:30 (3,912 days old) by Kenmoreguy64 (Charlotte, NC)        
DD washers that don't have a full rinse fill...

kenmoreguy64's profile picture
Were actually models from Roper, Admiral, Estate, Amana, and probably others. These were made in 2011 and 2012 only.

BUT, they can be easily spotted vs. others as they have a huge pictoral "how to use" sticker under the lid which discusses how to dilute fabric softener, how to load etc. using that incidious rinse (or lack thereof).

Even if you end up with one of these, all is not lost because they do have an internal rinse level switch which can be re-set to provide a high rinse water level.

Gordon


Post# 688854 , Reply# 25   7/11/2013 at 22:24 (3,912 days old) by DigAPony ()        
Those are great looking machines but I live in St.Pete and b

Well, sometimes one gets lucky and a nice machine can be found locally, other times a little traveling is necessary.

Mapquest says its only a 1 hr drive and used washer pickings seem pretty slim down there.

I'd bite the bullet and grab that Whirlpool if still available, you don't see that style too often.


Post# 688858 , Reply# 26   7/11/2013 at 22:57 (3,912 days old) by leica ()        

Yeah that's what I've been thinking.....That Whirlpool is probably the closest thing I'm gonna get to a Speed Queen at that price. I'm gonna call the guy and see what I could work out.....Is it worth giving up my GE for crappy trade/delivery value? It needs work but it runs good, I figured I could get at least 100 bucks for it if I pit it on CL.

Post# 688864 , Reply# 27   7/11/2013 at 23:26 (3,912 days old) by leica ()        

Here are the specs of the Whirlpool:

Model: GCAM2792TQ

FEATURES
2007 Federal Energy Compliant On Premise Full Console Mechanical Washer
• 3.2 Cu Ft basket
• Automatic Electronic Temperature Controlled regular and gentle cycles
• 115F hot, 85F warm wash
• High speed spin on all cycles
• Powdered paint top, lid and wrap cabinet
• Reliable, Direct-Drive NO BELTS drive system
• Front and bottom serviceable
• Two-Speed Advantage with true gentle wash, high-speed spin only!
• 1/2-HP Motor with built-in Overload Protector: 120-volt, 60 Hz.
• AC Agitation Speed 180 spm/high 120 spm/low
• High Speed Spin 640 rpm (approx.)
• Residential-Grade, Water Inlet Hoses
• Corrugated polypropylene Drain Hose included
• Shipping Weight: 184 lbs.
• 90 Day Labor, 2 Year Limited Parts Warranty, US
Available in US and Canada


Post# 688865 , Reply# 28   7/11/2013 at 23:38 (3,912 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        
Automatic Temp Control

rp2813's profile picture

Just be warned -- a "very warm" 115F "Hot" is what you'll get regardless of how hot your water heater is set.   That's probably about the same as what you use when showering.  The 85F "Warm" is tepid at best. 

 

One of the things I don't like about my 2008 Frigidaire is that it determines the "Hot" temperature and will at some point start adding warm or cold water to lower it.  I prefer a good old fashioned washer that fills with water as hot as I have my water heater set for and doesn't interfere to cool it down.  This is one of the many reasons I'm seriously considering going back to an old-school top loader when my Frigidaire goes to pieces.


Post# 689576 , Reply# 29   7/15/2013 at 16:41 (3,909 days old) by leica ()        

Whirlpool is gone, back to the drawing board.

Post# 689613 , Reply# 30   7/15/2013 at 19:30 (3,909 days old) by Westie2 ()        
Fisher Patkel

Here is a good FP Ecosmart like the one I bought for my mother when her 40 year old Maytag 806 died on us. Very good washer and can use the spray rinse or full rinse.



CLICK HERE TO GO TO Westie2's LINK on Tampa Craigslist


Post# 689614 , Reply# 31   7/15/2013 at 19:34 (3,909 days old) by Westie2 ()        
pic

Here is the panel


Post# 689618 , Reply# 32   7/15/2013 at 19:52 (3,909 days old) by pierreandreply4 (St-Bruno de montarville (province of quebec) canada)        

pierreandreply4's profile picture
have you tryed looking in your local store if they have over stock direct drive washers and if you look at this link here is a direct drive inglis whirlpool washer idk if they are still made must be since its still listed on the inglis appliance website but must be on special order only but it would be worth asking if your local store could get one for you

CLICK HERE TO GO TO pierreandreply4's LINK


Post# 690353 , Reply# 33   7/18/2013 at 22:59 (3,905 days old) by DigAPony ()        

How about this nice Kitchen Aid set?

fortmyers.craigslist.org/chl/app/...




Post# 690361 , Reply# 34   7/18/2013 at 23:58 (3,905 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

Oh yeah, that KA set would satisfy every requirement on your checklist.


Post# 691797 , Reply# 35   7/24/2013 at 23:21 (3,899 days old) by leica ()        
Back in the hunt

Well after being broke for a bit then working long hours I finally have some cash and time to start looking again.

DigAPony, that KA set is way too far, almost three hours away. I don't need a dryer either, my GE works just fine for now.

I will post more machines as I'm looking. I'm in no hurry yet as my machine still works so I'm trying to be patient and find a good machine for under 200 and trying to keep it local.


Post# 691822 , Reply# 36   7/25/2013 at 03:13 (3,899 days old) by whirlcool (Just North Of Houston, Texas)        

Those KA machines are nice machines, circa 1993-95 or so. And you don't see them all that often. I have a Whirlpool all electronic set from 1993. Still chugging along just fine. And as others have said parts will still be available for years to come and since everything is modular in the machine they are probably the easiest washers to work on should you ever need to.

Sometimes when a vintage machine pops up somewhere in your region you just have to act on them immediately. Three hours away is pretty close for some vintage washers.

I'm willing to bet that if you offered $135.00 for that KA set, you'd get them.


Post# 691888 , Reply# 37   7/25/2013 at 11:06 (3,899 days old) by leica ()        

I'm patient, and I'm confident something will turn up near me because I live in a highly populated area. I'd drive an hour but any more than that just isn't worth it to me. I just have to keep an eye on CL and be ready to jump at the right washer.

I'm going to update this thread each time I find a good candidate, so keep an eye on the thread guys!


Post# 691924 , Reply# 38   7/25/2013 at 15:19 (3,899 days old) by DigAPony ()        

Two nice Whirly sets:

tampa.craigslist.org/hil/app/3951...

tampa.craigslist.org/hil/app/3953...




Post# 692073 , Reply# 39   7/26/2013 at 11:41 (3,898 days old) by leica ()        

Fouind this set localy, an Estate Whirlpool? What does the Estate part mean?

Also a funky looking all electronic GE dryer which looks to have a stainless barrel, what do you guys think of these?

tampa.craigslist.org/pnl/app/3959...

I'm also in contact with a guy that deals in only older DD Whirlpool an GE top loaders, he refurbishes them himself and says he sticks with them for ease of repair and cheap parts. He told me he knows only one guy localy that will repair front loaders and he charges 100 bucks just to look at them!


Post# 692079 , Reply# 40   7/26/2013 at 12:35 (3,898 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

dadoes's profile picture
 
Estate is a Whirlpool brand, sold at Home Depot, Lowe's, Best Buy and other big-box stores.  They're slightly less-deluxe than the main-line brands of the family (Whirlpool, Kenmore, KitchenAid, Maytag).


Post# 692086 , Reply# 41   7/26/2013 at 13:14 (3,898 days old) by leica ()        

Anyone know anything about that dryer? I don't really need one, but if I can get both at a good price I'll take it as long as it's not a model that has issues.

Post# 693578 , Reply# 42   8/1/2013 at 00:47 (3,892 days old) by leica ()        

Well so far I've failed to find a decent machine, have gone to look at a couple that turned out being not what I thought or ragged out. Still looking, and found this Kenmore Elite set. Opinions?

tampa.craigslist.org/pnl/app/3972...

Also a Whirlpool set:

tampa.craigslist.org/pnl/app/3971...


Post# 693586 , Reply# 43   8/1/2013 at 04:53 (3,892 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

dadoes's profile picture
 
The Kenmore set is good.  3-speed motor on the washer, although 4 water levels instead of fully variable.  Dryer likely has moisture sensing auto-dry.

The Whirlpool washer likely is 2-speed, and the dryer is "standard" capacity instead of "super-size" based on the pic of the interior.


Post# 693608 , Reply# 44   8/1/2013 at 10:34 (3,892 days old) by Kenmoreguy64 (Charlotte, NC)        

kenmoreguy64's profile picture
In addition to what Glenn said, I think the Kenmores are a better bet than the Whirlpools unless the WPs have some sort of warranty from the re-seller.

The Kenmores are possibly as much as 7-10 years newer than the Whirlpools, as these are mid to later 1990s consoles. I think the Kenmores are from the early to mid 2000s.

The Whirlpool dryer is a standard capacity, though the best way to tell on these is to look at the placement of the door. There is a side-swing door big-drum dryer that uses the same bulkhead -- its a 6.5 cu ft. version instead of their biggest one with the non-flat bulkhead, which is approximately 7.0 cu ft. The doors are an easy way to tell as the large drum door is closer to the top of the dryer, and the standard door is more centered.

Gordon


Post# 693615 , Reply# 45   8/1/2013 at 11:27 (3,892 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

dadoes's profile picture
 
This Kenmore 90 I refurbed a few years ago (the parents have it now) is very similar to the ad unit but without the auto-soak-advance function.  My machine is circa 1999 per the serial number so the ad unit with the updated console is definitely newer.


Post# 693618 , Reply# 46   8/1/2013 at 11:37 (3,892 days old) by leica ()        

The great thing about it is it's a front opening instead of left side opening which I cannot have unfortunately. Trying to get ahold of the guy now, hopefully he doesn't sell it to one of the many dealers around here.

Post# 693836 , Reply# 47   8/2/2013 at 19:05 (3,891 days old) by leica ()        

Well, lost that set to a "dealer" I'm sure. Any cheap top loaders have been going quick, cleaned up and then relisted at a higher price. Kinda frustrating but I may have to just get a machine from a "flipper".

That being said I have a line on a '08 Speed Queen for a hundred dollars but the seller isn't returning my emails, check your spam folder when selling on CL people! I'm gonna be so mad if I see it relisted for three times the price.


Post# 693845 , Reply# 48   8/2/2013 at 19:56 (3,891 days old) by pierreandreply4 (St-Bruno de montarville (province of quebec) canada)        
i do not know if your willing to pay for shiping from canada

pierreandreply4's profile picture
i do not know if your willing to pay for shiping from canada but here is a rebadge whirlpool roper brand washer dryer set but the set may need to be cleanup repainted as the pain has kind of yellowed abit and here is a kenmore set for sale as well direct drive kind of look brand new

montreal.kijiji.ca/c-acheter-et-v...


CLICK HERE TO GO TO pierreandreply4's LINK


Post# 693875 , Reply# 49   8/2/2013 at 22:57 (3,890 days old) by leica ()        

Finally got ahold of the Speed Queen seller!

Hopefully going to see it tomorrow, model# AWS44NW, and it's an Alliance not Raytheon! Wish me luck!

If anyone knows anything about this particular model# that would be awesome too. From the looks of a google image search it seems pretty standard.


Post# 693878 , Reply# 50   8/2/2013 at 23:44 (3,890 days old) by dustin92 (Jackson, MI)        

Pierre, I hate to say it, but those Ropers are probably trash. The yellowing looks like cigarette smoke, and there is no way you would ever get the smell out without replacing Every. Single. Part... Cigarette odor permeates everything, and there is no way I would even bring them into my house.

Post# 693880 , Reply# 51   8/2/2013 at 23:46 (3,890 days old) by dustin92 (Jackson, MI)        

Good Luck with the Speed Queen, those are excellent machines, and at a great price!

Post# 694002 , Reply# 52   8/3/2013 at 13:49 (3,890 days old) by leica ()        

Picked up the Speed Queen today, got it for $60!!!

I've never been so excited to do laundry before haha. Pics for you guys:

[IMG]i.imgur.com/u47b89X.jpg[/IMG]...

[IMG]i.imgur.com/PO1kfsj.jpg[/IMG]...

It's a bit dirty inside on top of the tub, Can I just go at it with a hose or is that a bad idea?


Post# 694004 , Reply# 53   8/3/2013 at 14:09 (3,890 days old) by whirlcool (Just North Of Houston, Texas)        

Those Roper's look VERY smoked up. How could somebody stand even looking at those like that?

Post# 694006 , Reply# 54   8/3/2013 at 14:27 (3,890 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        
Nice!

rp2813's profile picture

That SQ looks like new, and the tub just needs to be wiped out a little.  A steal at $60!

 

I'm looking forward to further reports on how this machine performs for you.


Post# 694010 , Reply# 55   8/3/2013 at 15:31 (3,890 days old) by mtn1584 (USA)        
You STOLE that washer for sixty bucks!!!!

She is a beauty, and no need to adjust the water level on this baby because she is pre-2007 water usage restrictions, clean her up, run a hot wash with soap to clean her out with an extra rinse, maybe take her front off, and give her a good dusting!!! Good luck,
Mike


Post# 694298 , Reply# 56   8/4/2013 at 18:58 (3,889 days old) by leica ()        
Any more suggestions?

Just wondering what I should be looking for when I get the cover off in terms of maintenance items, like which parts that typically get worn. I'd like to get it all sorted out and cleaned up before I plug it in and get to washing. Like for instance, how do I inspect the pump to see if it's still working like it should? Anything I should take apart and get a good look at? I'm not afraid to take things apart and put them back together, I imagine this machine is pretty simple.

Also, can I use HE detergent in it? I have a lot left over from my front loader.


Post# 694300 , Reply# 57   8/4/2013 at 19:09 (3,889 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

I'd say hook it up and give it a whirl -- without any clothing in it.  If anything looks or sounds strange, report in here (perhaps starting a new thread that addresses any problems) and you'll likely elicit expert advice.   This is presuming the seller advised it was in proper working order and didn't have any issues.  If you want to take the front panel off and do a visual inspection, the belt would be the first thing to check but even if it shows signs of wear the washer should still be able to run through all of its paces.  If there are no signs of leaks, let 'er rip.

 

He detergent will work, but it will produce less suds than the regular stuff.


Post# 694304 , Reply# 58   8/4/2013 at 20:12 (3,888 days old) by leica ()        

The seller said it hadn't been run for awhile but that it ran fine before that.

I'll take the cover off, clean it up good and run it then report back.


Post# 694335 , Reply# 59   8/4/2013 at 22:28 (3,888 days old) by billiedyer1954 (Ohio, USA)        

I believe you should put about a quart of water in the tub before you try it out. when I got mine new, the installer did that, he said the pump would be damaged without some water in there, since yours has not been in use for some time, I think the pump retains a little water between loades.


Post# 694429 , Reply# 60   8/5/2013 at 15:56 (3,888 days old) by leica ()        

Welp it works great. Took off the front cover and beside some dry soap that had to be cleaned up it looks brand new inside. Hooked it up, poured some water in for the pump and ran it through a cycle with hot water and some soap. It sure is quiet compared to the front loader haha. Still gotta run some clothes through it, but I'm thinking it will be fine. I really lucked out on this one.

Post# 694446 , Reply# 61   8/5/2013 at 16:41 (3,888 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

dadoes's profile picture
 
Yay!


Post# 694517 , Reply# 62   8/5/2013 at 21:25 (3,887 days old) by DigAPony ()        

That Speed Queen looks a lot like the belt eating 1990 Amana washer I gave away.

Post# 694778 , Reply# 63   8/6/2013 at 20:52 (3,886 days old) by mtn1584 (USA)        
Alliance built this washer.................

so it may look like the belt eating Amana you gave away, but it isn't/
Mike
GREAT DEAL ON A GREAT WASHER!!! GOOD LUCK!!!


Post# 694783 , Reply# 64   8/6/2013 at 21:18 (3,886 days old) by DirectDriveDave ()        
Belt Eating

From other posts I have seen, I think the Amana-labeled washers didn't have the motor directly attached to the outer tub (or the support, I am unsure of the exact piece) instead it was attached to the bottom, so when the tub would move from agitation or spin, the motor stayed stationary, so it would constantly stretch the belt, which is why they had to be replaced a lot. 


Post# 695050 , Reply# 65   8/8/2013 at 00:34 (3,885 days old) by leica ()        
Need a Dryer

Have done a bunch of loads so far and the Speed Queen works great, however I've realized that I'm probably going to need a better dryer now too. Any recommendations? I'd like to go high efficiency if possible.

Post# 695221 , Reply# 66   8/8/2013 at 19:59 (3,884 days old) by pierreandreply4 (St-Bruno de montarville (province of quebec) canada)        

pierreandreply4's profile picture
for high effency have you look at the duet dryer or a speed queen dryer as an exemple if you look at the set i have the dryer is on the right is a duet dryer very good drying power for a 2004 dryer that is newer models might be a bit more powerful

Post# 695337 , Reply# 67   8/9/2013 at 11:33 (3,884 days old) by combo52 (50 Year Repair Tech Beltsville,Md)        
Belt Eaters

combo52's profile picture

All SQ [ since about 1980 ], Amana and Amana-tag derivatives are hard on main drive belts ,it does not matter if the motor is mounted on the base plate or suspended from the tub assembly like current models, as the idler pulley keeps the belt tension constant as the tub rocks on the machines with the base mounted motor.

 

This design is hard on belts because there is no clutch and as the machine struggles to spin while it is pumping out the water the belt gets HOT, to make matters worse when compared to MT DC washers that do the same thing, the SQ belt is shorter than MTs, SQs have an idler pulley bending the belt backwards and SQs now use a plastic transmission pulley that does not dissipate heat like the large aluminum pulley MT used.


Post# 695345 , Reply# 68   8/9/2013 at 11:55 (3,884 days old) by leica ()        
Gas or Electric?

That Duet looks and sounds nice, but a quick search on CL came up with a few that need control boards and I don't want to go down that road. I'm going to try and stick with analog controls.

Also I was wondering if it's worth going gas? I don't have hookups, but I could get a tank from a local supplier, and it would also give me the option of a gas stove which I've always wanted.


Post# 695348 , Reply# 69   8/9/2013 at 12:23 (3,884 days old) by DigAPony ()        
Also I was wondering if it's worth going gas?

I think having gas (propane) is opens up a lot of possibilities. If for no other reason in power outage you can still cook and possibly have hot water as well via a gas hot water heater (with standing pilot).

A gas 29 inch top lint filter dryer would be a nice match to the Speed Queen washer, and they are simple to convert to propane.


Post# 695363 , Reply# 70   8/9/2013 at 13:41 (3,884 days old) by pierreandreply4 (St-Bruno de montarville (province of quebec) canada)        

pierreandreply4's profile picture
my duet dryer is electric 220 volt i am sure if you look on craiglist there a gas version if you went to have a gas version


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