Thread Number: 57924  /  Tag: Modern Automatic Washers
Got my new Speed Queen AWN542 but have some questions/issues...
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Post# 803778   1/13/2015 at 07:34 (3,362 days old) by DreamKeeper ()        

So I received my new washer but have a few observations and questions for you guys.

1. As the delivery guys were installing the washer I started looking over the installation manual and I realized that they may not have done a few things correctly. First the washer did not have the bottom shipping plug. So they moved the washer up a flight of stairs without the shipping plug installed. I questioned them about the bottom plug and they said that they took it out right before they put the washer on the dolly and brought it in the house. That once they unpackaged the washer on the truck that the shipping plug just falls out and there's no way to put it back in without taping it to the washer. They assured me that as long as the shipping brace was in place in the tub that the shipping plug was not really needed. Well I wish I had read the user manual first because it actually goes into more detail about the shipping plug than the installation manual. It clearly says that you should NOT move the washer without the plug installed and that it can be reinstalled and snaps into place. I'm not sure if these guys just didn't know what the hell they were talking about or were lying to me for some reason.

2. In the installation manual it says that you need to add water to the tub before using the machine. It has an illustration of adding water to the machine with a bucket. I asked them about this and they said that you don't need to add the water manually, that you just need to make sure that the washer is filled with water before it starts it's initial agitation. Is this true or should they have added water manually?

3. During agitation the washer is making a noise that doesn't sound right to me. The noise is sort of like a rattle. It only makes the noise when I run a cycle with clothes, if I run a cycle with just water there is no noise. I took the front panel off to see if anything looked abnormal and I found a black powdery substance under the belt in the front. I'm assuming the black powder came from the belt. Is it normal for a new washer to have this black powder? I'm attaching some pics I took. I did notice in the user manual that it says some new washers that have set in storage for a while may make a knocking sound for the first 4 or 5 washes because the belt settles. So I'm going to try doing a few more loads to see if the noise goes away, but it actually sounds more like rattle to me than a knock.

Thanks for your help...


  Photos...       <              >      Photo 1 of 3         View Full Size



Post# 803787 , Reply# 1   1/13/2015 at 08:07 (3,362 days old) by washman (o)        
Should be fine

The tub will index like crazy until the brake pads seat in.

It will squeak a tad bit also.

My shipping plug was removed before they dollied it 25 feet from the truck to my basement, no issues.

I did put the water in first before starting the machine.

Can you upload a vid with sound so we can hear it?


Post# 803857 , Reply# 2   1/13/2015 at 14:34 (3,361 days old) by DreamKeeper ()        
Video

Thanks for the info washman, that makes me feel better about the shipping plug. I did do a quick video so you can hear the noise I'm talking about. This is during the second full wash that I've done with clothes. Is this the noise that's caused by the tub indexing or is this something else? The spin cycle sounds fine, it's just during agitation that I get the noise and only if clothes are in the tub.





Thanks...


Post# 803861 , Reply# 3   1/13/2015 at 14:51 (3,361 days old) by washman (o)        
Yup

Mine does that too. Has since day one it is a bit louder on heavy loads. From what I have read, not a big deal. The indexing will settle down over time.

Post# 803867 , Reply# 4   1/13/2015 at 15:04 (3,361 days old) by henene4 (Heidenheim a.d. Brenz (Germany))        

It almost sounds like the agitator haveing that tiny amount of play in its seat that allows it to "scrape" along the metal surface it rests on. Just my humble opinion...

Post# 803882 , Reply# 5   1/13/2015 at 16:20 (3,361 days old) by mrb627 (Buford, GA)        
Noise

mrb627's profile picture
Is it the idler pulley against the belt causing that noise?
Perhaps the spring is vibrating?

Malcolm


Post# 803891 , Reply# 6   1/13/2015 at 17:12 (3,361 days old) by Yogitunes (New Jersey)        

yogitunes's profile picture
something ain't right.....

that noise is either the idler pulley doesn't have any lube.....

or the belt has a flat/wide spot in it......

at 1:05 you can see the idler arm shaking, which could be part of the rattle.....mine doesn't jiggle like that once the machine starts going and tension pulls the belt taught....

if you don't feel right about it...call for service, that's why their there...

as for the other stuff, like that shipping plug, did you keep it should you ever have to move the machine?.....I transported them on their side and back in a car and never had an off track issue....I do have the plastic tub support that goes in top....but no big deal if I didn't have it......besides, they always uncrate and pull all shipping braces and parts before bringing into your house....most likely would not fit through your doors while in the box, or crate attached to the bottom...

I just had a buddy pay movers to empty his house, and they carried a TL washer completely upside down from the basement.....shocked the heck out of me for that one, but it works fine...

the only issue of adding water is to lubricate the pump, and not run dry.....as long as the machine had water added before the motor started, again, your fine....

don't over analyze, concentrate on any real issues......yours most likely isn't the first one they ever installed....



Post# 804083 , Reply# 7   1/14/2015 at 14:08 (3,360 days old) by Chetlaham (United States)        

chetlaham's profile picture
As long as water is added somehow before the motor starts that's ok. The water is just to moisten the pump seal so it doesn't overheat and crack.

But, piece of advice, always install machines yourself. I always ask them to be dropped off in an unopened box. If the box comes opened or the machine taken out I refuse to take it.


A lot of places out source delivery, so you get a mixed bag of people. Some do it right others have no clue. My guess in terms of the plug is that they just don't know. They have a hundred different washers to worry about and chances are they don't read the manual for everyone one. They should at least be told take everything out at the spot of installation. But again, you get a mixed bag of results.



Post# 804096 , Reply# 8   1/14/2015 at 15:05 (3,360 days old) by Yogitunes (New Jersey)        

yogitunes's profile picture
installing a new appliance by yourself is "half the fun" of buying a new machine....

there are times when they install a new dryer, that they will disconnect the old hose, fully clogged, and hook it onto the new dryer......not their problem, or their job to check and clean this stuff....

this is all the more reason to 'do it yourself'.....remove the old, clean the area, flush the pipes, clean or replace venting, and use new hoses and cords....IF you want it done right.....OR, take your chances!....

many wont hook up a GAS dryer or dishwasher, you must contract a plumber for these things......


Post# 804255 , Reply# 9   1/15/2015 at 07:54 (3,360 days old) by combo52 (50 Year Repair Tech Beltsville,Md)        
Noise During Agitation On A New SQ TL Washer

combo52's profile picture
It doesn't sound too unusual to me, I would run it at least a year before calling for service unless it gets MUCH louder and if it stays the same ignore it.

These are good rugged washers, but no one ever said they were silent, you could install the sound insulation package that I used to silence a NOISY Frigidaire 1-18, doing what I did to the FD would make your new SQ almost silent.

I will post pictures of the sound reduction techniques used on the 1-18 when I get a chance.


Post# 804263 , Reply# 10   1/15/2015 at 08:12 (3,360 days old) by mrb627 (Buford, GA)        
post pictures of the sound reduction

mrb627's profile picture
Please do!

Malcolm


Post# 804378 , Reply# 11   1/15/2015 at 23:35 (3,359 days old) by cleanguy (earth)        
idler braket

my guess,,,, idler wheel bracket is touching motor shaft.
Thats why idler is moving !!! This is caused by belt being adjusted a little loose.
YOU should examine idler bracket where it gets real close to motor shaft,, i think it show in the video, but hard to see.
I once had this problem on a old SQ raytheon.


Post# 804402 , Reply# 12   1/16/2015 at 06:57 (3,359 days old) by cleanguy (earth)        
idler LEVER

correction,,,, correct part name might be idler "lever" :)
(sorry,, would not let me edit my previous post ???)


Post# 804434 , Reply# 13   1/16/2015 at 11:21 (3,358 days old) by DreamKeeper ()        
Noise

Thanks for all the info guys. I'm going to contact Speed Queen and see what they have to say about the noise. I've now ran 9 loads of clothes and the noise is still there and may have actually increases just a bit.

I did look again and I think you guys who are saying that it may be the idler pulley/lever may be correct. There is a slot in the bracket that the motor sets on and the idler arm has a little finger that sticks up and fits into that slot. From what I can see it looks like that little finger is setting right up against the far right end of the slot and when it moves back and forth it's hitting the end of that metal slot and that may be what's making the noise. When it goes into a spin cycle that lever gets popped out to the middle of the slot and that's why there is no noise during spin.

I wouldn't think that lever should be sitting right up against the end of the slot. I guess my question is why is it then? The belt doesn't feel loose to me but of course I'm not sure how tight it should be. There is no way to adjust the belt tension on this machine right? I think it's auto adjusting. I wonder if something is out of alignment internally with this machine?

Thanks...


Post# 804440 , Reply# 14   1/16/2015 at 11:54 (3,358 days old) by cleanguy (earth)        

exactly :),, idler lever touching shaft !!!!
If you want, it is easy to slightly tighten belt. The motor mounting bracket slides in and out slightly to adjust belt tension. It will get worse as belt stretches over time. Needs to be adjusted by you or repairman.
Glad i could help,, i know i have been helped here tooooo.


Post# 804446 , Reply# 15   1/16/2015 at 12:29 (3,358 days old) by washman (o)        
here's some pix of mine

www.automaticwasher.org/cgi-bin/T...

I put a tad bit of grease on the nib that sticks up in the slot. the noise is from that nib "bouncing" against the stop.


Post# 804449 , Reply# 16   1/16/2015 at 12:55 (3,358 days old) by DreamKeeper ()        

@cleanguy - thanks for the info. I did just go and look again but I don't see any way to slide the mounting bracket. It looks like it is solidly bolted into place. I just don't see any bolts that when loosened would allow the bracket to slide. Also, the motor is already very close to the front panel of the machine so I don't know it could even be slid out enough. Maybe I'm missing something though. I would probably have a service guy do it anyway just so I don't void the warranty.

@washman - thanks for the thread link. That looks like it's exactly what is happening on my machine, even the black dust from the belt that's talked about in that thread. It looks like others started having this issue over a period of time. What worries me is that mine is already exhibiting these issues from day one. I already had the black dust from the belt on the first day I got the machine. I'm wondering if I should try to get the dealer to swap this machine for another one. If this is already happening on this machine I worry about long term issues. Maybe I got a lemon?

Thanks...


Post# 804456 , Reply# 17   1/16/2015 at 13:54 (3,358 days old) by imperial70 (MA USA)        

You might do better just trying to sell it as fast as possible to someone that loves this design.


Post# 804460 , Reply# 18   1/16/2015 at 14:12 (3,358 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

I doubt SQ will take the machine back and give you a new one.  I think this problem can be easily fixed, although I haven't read anything above that indicates if it's just an annoyance or a sign of trouble down the line. 

 

You've got a good warranty, so go ahead and take advantage of it.  If a repair tech comes out, you might want to show him the clip from "washman" so he knows the source of the noise in case he's not familiar with this issue.


Post# 804462 , Reply# 19   1/16/2015 at 14:38 (3,358 days old) by mrb627 (Buford, GA)        
What's in a NUB?

mrb627's profile picture
That NUB that it is making contact with, what is it exactly? Is it part of the motor peeking through the mount plate? Or is it part of the mount plate itself? Could it be filed down a bit? Count you insert a spring washer on the idler access to help it clear the NUB?

Other than the annoyance, I don't think it is anything mechanically to get bent out of shape over.

Malcolm


Post# 804511 , Reply# 20   1/16/2015 at 21:37 (3,358 days old) by DreamKeeper ()        

@rp2813 - I actually meant getting a replacement from the dealer I bought it from. They say they have a 60 day return policy and will stand behind the products they sell so I'm under the impression they would be willing to take it back and give me a new one.

I realize that the issue may end up not being that big of a deal to fix, but I just hate the thought of spending so much money on something that is brand new and it having issues from the first day I use it. I bought a new car one time that had an issue the day after I drove it off the lot. That car ended up being a lemon and for the next few years until I was able to buy a different car I had nothing but problems with it.

I guess I'm just a little weary of this washer being like that car where I constantly need to have it serviced. If I wanted a washer like that I could have bought a GE top loader with the extended warranty for half of what I paid for the SQ.

But, I'm going to keep using the washer for a few more days and see how it does. if I can convince myself that having the washer serviced will fix this and that there isn't something more serious wrong with it that will cause more issues in the future l would be willing to keep it.

Thanks again for all your input guys...


Post# 804517 , Reply# 21   1/16/2015 at 22:32 (3,358 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

I doubt you have a lemon.  It seems like the noise isn't all that uncommon.  Ben (washman) has had his SQ for a while and it seems applying some grease to the trouble spot helped, and he hasn't had any other problems.

 

But -- I agree with you 100% that if you buy something new and pay a premium price for a quality item, it shouldn't sound like a bucket of bolts.  If the same thing happened to me, and if the dealer offered a 60-day return policy, I'd be placing a request for a service call regarding the noise.   I'm a stickler for annoying rattles.

 

I honestly think a minor adjustment is all that's needed.  As with many mechanical items, there's a break-in period as components mesh into place.  Your machine's issue could be a combination of both.   My mom's 2000 GE made a weird rhythmic sound during agitation when it was new.  I inquired about it and the service rep asked if it was a "sawing" sound, and she nailed it with that description.  She said it would go away, and after about a week or two, it did.

 


Post# 804626 , Reply# 22   1/17/2015 at 19:32 (3,357 days old) by washman (o)        
I think you'll be ok

One thing I hate besides eco-machines is learning a new member of the SQ family is upset or concerned with his purchase.

To that end, I want to alleviate your concerns.

You can rest assured that you have a machine that is that last of the old school TL machines that are among the best, if not the most water miserly, at cleaning laundry.

Backed by a company that is still independent and in business since 1908.

Made from good old fashioned strong steel and metal, not plastic.

Backed by the industry's best warranty.

Built in USA of US and globally sourced components.

I've had the same noise as yours for a while now. I have not noticed any degradation in performance. It has not gotten worse but slightly better when I greased up the nib on the idler assembly.

Black belt dust is same on mine. Due to fact the belt gets used on both sides (due to reversing motor), I expect this. And it is not a big deal to change it out.

By all means KEEP this machine! You'd be foolish to part ways with it after such a short time! Give it a chance! In the fullness of time, you will only grow more fond of the reasurring wooo wooo wooo as the patented 210 degree agitator stroke moves your clothes through the water with ease, powered by a mighty made in Mexico motor.

Stick with it. Don't give up so easily. I'm here for you and any other SQ owner. We are a unique group. Read again what the other senior members posted. They give good advice without all the BS.


Post# 804646 , Reply# 23   1/17/2015 at 22:17 (3,357 days old) by murando531 (Augusta, Georgia - US)        

murando531's profile picture
Dealing with a similar issue myself, I know exactly how you feel about your new machine. I'm a bit of a perfectionist myself, and it doesn't help that I've had a lifelong fascination with all machines, primarily washers and dishwashers, and with that I've analyzed all kinds of machines and become attuned to their various behaviors and sounds. I just bought a new Maytag Bravos XL in November, and in the time I've had it, I've been annoyed by various rattles and knocks and rackets that it's made. Some of them are to be expected, but some just don't sit well with me because of what I've been used to on previous washers before it. Still, I've learned to overlook certain things while still keeping close watch so that I can call for support at the first sign of trouble.

My advice would be what the others here have already given: should the noise your SQ is making feel completely wrong, call customer support. That's what your warranty is there for, and honestly I'd feel more trusting of their tech support than I do for Whirlpool's (ten years ago I wouldn't have believed that to be the case, about WP that is). If I were you, I'd give the machine at least a couple of months to work the newness out before I'd abandon it. That's what I'm doing for the Maytag. That belt dust is completely normal; even cars have that, except that the dust is blown away whereas that has nowhere to go. The rattle may alleviate itself as the belt settles in.


Post# 804690 , Reply# 24   1/18/2015 at 05:25 (3,357 days old) by mtn1584 (USA)        
AWN542

that machine is a WORK HORSE, I have one, bought one for my mother, both machines are going on six years old, and I talked my brother into buying one when their Kenmore Oasis crapped out for the last time.
I have changed the belt once. Black dust is normal on a new belt. This machine WILL make various noises, and you make think it sounds a bit odd, but remember the noises a General Electric Filter Flo Washer made? They too were also built like tanks!!!
Keep it, work with it, don't baby it, if it needs service you have a FIVE YEAR WARRANTY and this washer will last 5x that!! Remember these washers are used in a Commercial setting all the time.
LISTEN TO BEN, HE IS RIGHT!
Call Alliance, they are GREAT!!!!!!!
Mike


Post# 804693 , Reply# 25   1/18/2015 at 06:17 (3,357 days old) by Mrb627 (Buford, GA)        
Speed Queen Doubts

mrb627's profile picture
Some of the older members here may recall that I had some doubts about my Speed Queen purchase after the fact when my dryer stopped dead mid cycle. Well, a tech came out and ended up ordering a new motor and timer for it. Once those components were replaced, it was still dead. The tech and I began stepping through the schematic with a meter and determined there was a broken wire in a harness. Wire replaced. Dryer has been operating fine ever since.

So stick with it.

My question is, can you stop the noise by applying a little pressure with a finger to keep the lever away from the nub? If so, perhaps a spring washer would solve the problem once and for all?

Malcolm


Post# 804805 , Reply# 26   1/18/2015 at 20:40 (3,356 days old) by DigAPony ()        
Black belt dust

The belt dust is normal and also due to break-in. Speed Queen TL's are known to be hard on drive belts but it will be years before replacement is necessary and its an inexpensive repair.

As for the noise I would call customer service.


Post# 805102 , Reply# 27   1/20/2015 at 21:32 (3,354 days old) by DreamKeeper ()        

Thanks for all the feedback guys... I am definitely going to keep the machine for a while and see how it does. I actually do really like the machine. It cleans very well and aside from that one annoying rattle noise it is actually pretty quiet.

I did contact Alliance and they watched the video I shot. He confirmed what everyone in this thread has said that just from listening to the video he thinks that the noise is coming from the idler lever. He didn't want to go any further with a diagnosis without being able to physically see the machine but told me if the noise persists to go ahead and get it checked out.

Anyway, thanks for listening to my rants and for calming my over analytical mind...


Post# 810846 , Reply# 28   2/23/2015 at 21:35 (3,320 days old) by esty (New Jersey)        

Hi, curious if you had someone out to check your machine. I had the exact noise problem on my brand new awn 542. I also sent a video link of the sound to the technical support at speed queen. They new exactly what the problem was. It is the idler pully and the washers next to it. They have a fix for it with instructions. They sent it to a service provider in my area and they were here last week to fix it. They replaced the pully and added a washer and replaced another. Supposedly a fiberglass washer was added. So if you havent had it fixed yet, request the repair kit from them. All is quiet now except now I have some rattling in the spin cycle after my tub was leveled. My repair man noticed that the tub wasn't centered during agitation, so he centered it even though the outer box is no longer level. Now I have this rattling in the spin cycle. They are coming back out in two days to check it out.
Also I can't seem to get the suds to stay down from my standpipe even with the adapter on some keep coming out. Anyone have any solutions for me other than to keep a towel wrapped around the top of the standpipe? I do not overdose on soap at all.
Thank you.


Post# 810860 , Reply# 29   2/23/2015 at 23:58 (3,320 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        
Suds

rp2813's profile picture

My step-daughter has reported standpipe suds with her AWN412.  Her husband sawed off some of it when they had their previous (10 year-old Kenmore) machines and there was no problem.  I gave them a section of pvc pipe to extend it again with a rubber sleeve, but haven't heard yet whether that helped.

 

Interesting that SQ has a kit to fix the noise.  Why don't they just assemble the machines with those components in the first place?

 

After hearing some of the things people go through with their SQ washers, I have to wonder if they're a bit of a sloppy bunch over there at Alliance.


Post# 810887 , Reply# 30   2/24/2015 at 06:46 (3,320 days old) by combo52 (50 Year Repair Tech Beltsville,Md)        
Minor Issues With A New SQ TL Washer

combo52's profile picture

As a dealer that has sold over 400 of these washers I will say again that they are a little crude, they do get the job done however, but if you are looking for perfection you may be disappointed. This why I have said in the past that this is not the best machine for us folks whom are obsessed with washers and I will never have one in my personal laundry room. [ If you want perfection in a traditional TL washer get and restore a 10-15 YO WP built DD washer ]

 

SQ has some issues with idlers, belts , motor and main drive pulleys, this is made much worse because of their insistence of sticking with the inferior spin-drain operation of these washers. Even Frigidaire abandoned SD over 15 years ago as they could never get their idler-pulley, belt and suds-locking under control.  SQ does build neutral-drain washers for markets like Australia where consumers demand better performance. The suds backing up the drain standpipe is also made worse by the SD system.


Post# 810900 , Reply# 31   2/24/2015 at 09:09 (3,319 days old) by brucelucenta ()        

Solution is simple. Get a front load machine. They are efficient, quiet and do a better job washing and rinsing with virtually NO linting or redeposition at all along with superior water extraction. Personally, being obsessed with top load automatic washers for as far back as I can remember, a front load washer has little or no appeal to me as far as watching it do it's job. But it does do a much better job of what it is intended to do. Just the plain & simple truth of the matter.

Post# 810987 , Reply# 32   2/24/2015 at 23:30 (3,319 days old) by esty (New Jersey)        

Combo52, since you deal with these machines all the time, how does the speed queen compare to the hotpoint 3.7 and the GE 3.9? I don't know their model numbers off hand, but they are the ones without a locking lid and supposedly an old school washer. I have read mixed reviews. The speed queen that I have now is actually my second one. I had one for three years that needed a lot of repairs, bearings replaced and more. Probably a lemon. When three years were almost up I finally got it replaced. I did have to pay some for the new one. The new one had already one repair for the rattling and now the spin is making a noise. My laundry room is right off my kitchen, so I hear all the sounds the washer makes. I am so upset that I got rid of my old whirlpool. The tub was rusting, so I got the speed queen. I am happy at least I found this forum, so I know I am not the only one with washing machine issues. Any advice is appreciated.
Thank you.


Post# 811028 , Reply# 33   2/25/2015 at 07:04 (3,319 days old) by combo52 (50 Year Repair Tech Beltsville,Md)        
Best New Top Load Washers

combo52's profile picture

Hi Ellen, GE-HP TL washers have not held up well since at least 1995, I am quite sure that current SQ TL washers will out last most newer GE built top loaders are least 2 to 1 before you have major problems. Probably about the only other new TL washer I would recommend would be a Direct Drive Maytag or Whirlpool machine.

 

If you had seal and bearing failures on your last SQ it could have been a fluke, but more likely was related to your usage of the washer and if related to your usage you may repeat the same failure in a few years.

 

Be very sure you are using PLENTY of good detergent and water temperatures for washing of at least 70 dregrees at all times, and avoid extra rinses on a regular basis. Most of all if you see any signs of mineral build up around the top of the wash basket you really need to take these suggestions to heart.

 

Good Luck with your new washer, and I would not worry about little noises that these washers make.

 

John L.


Post# 811046 , Reply# 34   2/25/2015 at 08:44 (3,318 days old) by esty (New Jersey)        

Thank you John for responding. Please explain what you mean by plenty of good detergent, and avoid extra rinses.if I use a lot of detergent, then I will need extra rinses. I only use till line one on a full load. If I use more I get too much suds which leads to more rinses. I leave the second rinse switch on, on my machine because most of my family has sensitive skin and my doctor recommended second rinsing things. I use arm and hammer unscented on most loads or regular tide on my husband's things. In the other speed queen that I had the bearings started screaming after about four months after I got it. Is this machine so sensitive that I should be afraid to use it? I have four kids at home and I do laundry often. Thanks so much for taking your time to answer me.
Also, my technician is coming today. Something is hitting in the spin cycle on some cycles. The outer box is not level, because he tried to keep the center tub centered during agitation and that's what he felt he had to do to keep the tub centered. One front leg is higher than the other.
Thanks again,
Ellen


Post# 811048 , Reply# 35   2/25/2015 at 09:20 (3,318 days old) by esty (New Jersey)        

Sorry, one more question. Is it safe to use vinegar in a speed queen washer? I read that its a good way to remove excess detergent and good for helping retain colors. Will vinegar corrode the washer and components?
Ellen


Post# 811130 , Reply# 36   2/25/2015 at 18:50 (3,318 days old) by esty (New Jersey)        

Well, my repair man was here today. Spent a half hour and couldn't figure out what is causing the rattling in the spin cycle. It seems to mainly happen when the load goes a little off balance. Otherwise it is fairly quiet. very odd. I guess I have to bear with it. Somewhat annoying.

Post# 811140 , Reply# 37   2/25/2015 at 19:38 (3,318 days old) by washman (o)        
Not at all ellen

You see, SQ alone offers the best warranty in the business along with quality components. the SS inner tub and porcelain enamel outer tub will outlast the machine itself.

Having said that, I use vinegar in my rise especially when I do towels. I also used it my plastic fantastic GE for 14 years with nary a problem.

The SQ is a very well constructed machine. I would not be worried at all about using it.

For the record, my father and I have the same AWN 542. He does more laundry than I do as he washes curtains whereas I have blinds instead. Neither of us have had any issues whatsoever.

You made a wise choice in selecting a Speed Queen for your laundry needs.


Post# 812356 , Reply# 38   3/4/2015 at 20:15 (3,311 days old) by Spinmon (st. charles mo )        

esty,my 2 1/2 year old SQ AWN 542 used to rattle the side side cabinet at times. Pretty big noise and irritating. I'd stuff a Q-Tip between the top and cabinet,which seemed to help.

Noticed about a year ago the Q-Tip had fallen out,but the rattle hasn't returned.

My wife (who is usually very careful with cars,machines),recently turned the water level reset knob too hard(''resetting''),cracking the plastic under the knob AND over-riding the stop detent on the pressure valve! I opened the console and re-positioned the half-moon properly. Put tape on the knob insert till I can get a new part. LIGHT pressure on the ''Reset''Recommended!

My tub leans forward with the machine level and water level even in tub. Oh,well.

Finally,make sure you're not overloading. I've seen vids with a load of 11 pair jeans. Stupid. Load sensibly,enjoy one of the last gutsy washing machines we'll probably see. And I DO like the SQ's classic sounds.


Post# 812379 , Reply# 39   3/5/2015 at 00:43 (3,311 days old) by esty (New Jersey)        

Thank you, spinmon for answering. I really don't understand where you are explaining where you put the q tip. I realized that the rattling in the spin cycle is coming from the plastic white drain hose. When it shakes in the spin if the load gets slightly uneven in the tub (mainly on small loads) it makes that sound.I was hearing it also when the water stopped after agitation and realized it was coming from the hose moving against the back panel where the hose is attached. In the spin cycle it is coming from the part that I can't get to on the inside of the machine. I am wondering if when my technician tilted the washer way back to replace the pully and washers he loosened the hose to cause it to shake and create this rattling sound. My washer is in a very tight space so he couldn't movevthe machine over to repair it. So he leaned it over backwards. I duck taped the hose in place on the back panel and that seemed to help the rattling after agitation stops. I still have it in the spin cycle though. Any advice is appreciated.
Also my tub stopped indexing. Do you know if that is normal? I am very careful about not overloading my washer. I know that its not good for the washer, and the clothes don't get clean that way either.
Thank you.


Post# 812750 , Reply# 40   3/7/2015 at 18:29 (3,308 days old) by washman (o)        
Yes once the brake pads seat in

the tub will stop indexing.

I attached a vid of mine doing a small load. It exposes the stainless tub quite well.


CLICK HERE TO GO TO washman's LINK


Post# 812826 , Reply# 41   3/8/2015 at 10:30 (3,307 days old) by Yogitunes (New Jersey)        

yogitunes's profile picture
for some, the tub leans forward during wash, it comes from the torque during agitation, some do it, some don't...totally normal, doesn't affect anything else, and the tub always centers for the spin.....

I put extra foam padding attached to the front panel just to keep it centered at all times, but that's me.....

there should be a clip inside the machine to guide the drain hose from the pump to the outlet, but these are just clipped in place, not fully tightened down type of clamps, so a little rattle can be had from sitting in the wrong awkward position....

there were times on machines, the pressure hose would also rattle against the outter cabinet is it happen to set too close, especially during spin...

sometimes we would just use some duct tape or wire ties to secure things tighter....

a simple loose screw will make that rear control panel rattle like crazy.....annoying yes, but doesn't really hurt anything...

Vinegar has been used for years without complaints....it can clear up suds, and rinses away with no odor.....usually about 2 ounces in the dispenser is enough....its not like your pickling your clothes....but there is a recipe somewhere about bread and butter pickles soaking in your washer....hey, people have done stranger things....


Post# 1034152 , Reply# 42   6/1/2019 at 16:28 (1,761 days old) by IIIJohnnyMacIII (North Carolina)        
Rattling noise

iiijohnnymaciii's profile picture
Dreamkeeper, did you ever find out what the rattling noise was?


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