Thread Number: 69708  /  Tag: Modern Automatic Washers
Speed Queen Front Loader Dead in the Water: Round Three
[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# 926250   3/11/2017 at 15:35 (2,574 days old) by Stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
.
Round one: www.automaticwasher.org/cgi-bin/T...
Round two: www.automaticwasher.org/c...


Yes folks the infamous motor board eater is back up to it's old tricks.
Same situation, stops mid load and an electrical burning smell fills the air and two of four green lights are flashing...seems like, well seems like just a few weeks ago all over again doesn't it?
One or two new wrinkles to the tired tale, so don't go away...
This time I called SQ and got their parts guy on the line. He gave me the direct number AND the name of the best SQ parts distributor in my area.
Then I called the SQ dealer who put in the first board and told them to come with a new board AND pump cause...well history often repeats on this machine doesn't it? I told him the info SQ gave me cause, like the last place he had no clue about SQ over nighting parts, as they will do if you know how to order them to take advantage of their speedy parts delivery program.
Great(!), parts can in a flash but his repairmen were slammed and I'd have to wait until the weekend. So FLer from H-E double hockey sticks was down another full week. Okay i can live with that having waited twice as long in each of the previous go rounds.
So guy shows up and determines yes the board is toast:
He puts in the new one- machine still not working.
He reattaches a loose wire to start switch-progress!
Machine proceeds to over-fill- crap!
He determines the pump is not working right and goes to truck for the new one- so glad I made sure they would be prepared for the Satan of suds that lives in my laundry room!
He vacuums out buckets of water.
He removes old (3 weeks old, hah!) pump-clean as a whistle, no debris this time!
New pump in- machine up and running!

So for those keeping score this machine has fried it's first board, and was fixed by replacing the board.
It smoked another board and pump wherein the machine over filled and sock debris was found. And it has now eaten it's third board and second pump, but on this ocassion the machine again overfilled, however no debris or sign of clogging was found anywhere...we looked.
Calgon take it away!

Okay some info the tech told me:
If the pump is faulty it effects many other things operationally on the machine.
Also, i am not alone, he is replacing these boards OFTEN.
Whirlpool charges a core for Motor Boards, SQ doesn't. His shop is told to keep this board for three months then trash it.
He doubts they will replace my machine. Me, "is that something SQ does? Him, "not really".

I believe their is an electric issue in the wiring of this machine that will probably continue to fry vulnerable components until found.
I will be calling SQ this week to give me an outline of what they plan on doing WHEN THIS MACHINE FAILS AGAIN in the near future. We get an average of 30 loads per board/pump and that number is shrinking.







  Photos...       <              >      Photo 1 of 4         View Full Size



Post# 926252 , Reply# 1   3/11/2017 at 15:49 (2,574 days old) by ea56 (Cotati, Calif.)        

ea56's profile picture
All I can say Robert is that you have WAY more patience than I do, and what you do have is by this time surely exhausted! You have my sympathy! Good luck with getting a satisfactory outcome.
Eddie


Post# 926315 , Reply# 2   3/11/2017 at 22:03 (2,573 days old) by Stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
.
Thanks Eddie I appreciate the support. This has actually taken a bit of a toll on me.
My 88 year-old mother now doesn't want to do her wash because she is, "afraid she might break something."
My rich older brother thinks I can't do anything right...even buy a washing machine for our mother. His family's LG pair, which he researched zero about like most things he buys, suffers no problems.
Our guest was sent out to do her laundry yesterday.
My children can't wear their favorite cloths as much as they would like because we cannot wash them very frequently...the Speed Queen is simply too often broken waiting for parts/repairs.
I spend a lot of time learning about washers, yet our neighbors and friends know virtually nothing and still have their washers work normally.
My wife is kind enough, but probably wishes I would get another hobby and get us a regular brand that works. I hadn't heard of Speed Queen for the home until this website, nobody in our family had. We probably would have bought a nice comparably dependable Whirlpool, LG or Electrolux that, if it somehow broke nearly as often as our SQ would certainly have been replaced by now with a new unit from the manufacturer.




This post was last edited 03/11/2017 at 23:44
Post# 926331 , Reply# 3   3/12/2017 at 03:03 (2,573 days old) by Launderess (Quiet Please, There´s a Lady on Stage)        
I could die for you!

launderess's profile picture
At this point wonder if it isn't kinder not to take that washer out to the back yard, and put it out of it's misery. *LOL*

Shouldn't laugh I know but how much more can anyone person stand from one appliance? At this point SQ should take back that hot mess and give you a brand new washing machine.



Post# 926338 , Reply# 4   3/12/2017 at 04:06 (2,573 days old) by rapunzel (Sydney)        

Robert you've bought a dud. Unfortunately it happens (very randomly), and leaves a very bitter taste. I'd be so angry and frustrated if it were me. However, apart from your dud, there are thousands of SQ customers who don't have (major) issues and are very happy with their product.

Next time I would contact SQ for a complete replacement. Go past middle-management, right up to the top level. Tell them your tale and that you expect there to be a better solution than having repair people traipsing through your house for the same recurring problem.

In fact, even if your washer currently works after this last repair. Contact SQ top management right now to make them conscious of your existence and problem.


Post# 926359 , Reply# 5   3/12/2017 at 08:03 (2,573 days old) by Steved (Guilderland, New York)        

Contact your states consumer protection agency www.dca.ca.gov... and see how to file a complaint.

Post# 926435 , Reply# 6   3/12/2017 at 20:13 (2,572 days old) by Launderess (Quiet Please, There´s a Lady on Stage)        
With all due respect

launderess's profile picture
Reflecting upon one's previous comments think you should really take a firm line and demand SQ replace this washer. Tell them you'll make such a stink they've never seen unless they do so.

Far too many repairs on parts that should last far longer than a few months, especially for a washer marketed as built to "commercial laundry" standards.

There is something quite wrong when an appliance toasts motherboards like housewife making breakfast for a family of five. That is IMHO something is causing this washer to damage newly installed motherboards quickly. Personally after the first I'd have requested a new machine, but that is just me.

Get on the telephone with Alliance and ask to speak with someone high in the food chain. Don't be fobbed off to a low level functionary and state your case.




This post was last edited 03/12/2017 at 20:40
Post# 926444 , Reply# 7   3/12/2017 at 20:44 (2,572 days old) by ea56 (Cotati, Calif.)        

ea56's profile picture
Ditto Laundress! I would have done this after the second time it required major work. I know that many people feel that Alliance can do no wrong, but I don't think any of them would feel the same loyalty if they'd gone thru this run around. Any manufacture can produce a lemon, even the very best. The right thing to do would be for Alliance to send a new machine, along with a sincere letter of apology and call it even. It also seems that they need to provide a service providers in Robert's area that are more familar with the SQ products.

So Robert get on the phone first thing on Monday add go to the top of the ladder at Alliance to state your case and request a replacement.
Eddie


Post# 926445 , Reply# 8   3/12/2017 at 20:45 (2,572 days old) by Launderess (Quiet Please, There´s a Lady on Stage)        
Maybe you've got Gremlins

launderess's profile picture
Who wreck appliances with "di-a-bo-lick-al sab-oh-tay-gee" (diabolical sabotage).




  View Full Size
Post# 926458 , Reply# 9   3/12/2017 at 21:56 (2,572 days old) by nmassman44 (Brooksville Florida)        

nmassman44's profile picture
I was thinking that you might have an issue with power surges in your area causing the boards to fry on you. If thats not the case, there could very well be an issue with wiring in your machine or worse.
If you get no satisfaction from the dealer or SQ about replacing your lemon of a front loader, call your state Consumer Bureau and find out what your rights are in this matter. I know here in Massachusetts our consumer protection laws are quite robust and had to go to Consumer Affairs bureau for advice and they told me that state law will supersede any warranty exclusions that a manufacturer tries to immune themselves with. Here in Mass there is an "implied warranty" where the product should do what its supposed to do like wash clothes, freeze, cook, etc. If it doesn't and you have contacted the dealer and manufacturer and still got no where, then you can contact the state and you will get action. Once a dealer hears that you have gone that route, its better for them to give you what you want to remedy the issue right away or else the state will step in...and they don't want that.


Post# 926476 , Reply# 10   3/12/2017 at 23:52 (2,572 days old) by mark_wpduet (Lexington KY)        
I thought I remembered readin

mark_wpduet's profile picture
the OP's other posts where he in fact "TRIED TO CONTACT" the powers the be at SQ, but he kept getting the run around. There MUST be a way to get through to someone with power at SQ and bypass all of the rep's that are of zero help! I'm sure if he could get in touch with someone with power at SQ this would be resolved quickly.

Post# 926481 , Reply# 11   3/13/2017 at 00:54 (2,572 days old) by Launderess (Quiet Please, There´s a Lady on Stage)        
Years ago now

launderess's profile picture
When Alliance was just beginning to dip their toes into the residential/OPL market it was easier to reach top people. You just called in to the main office, asked and that was that; you got put through.

Now that Alliance has gotten all grown up it seems that they've gone "corporate" and thus you can no longer reach anyone other than "customer service".

Still shouldn't let that deter; keep telephoning and writing letters until someone in authority contacts in return. I'd surely light a fire under that dealer to see what he can do about a replacement machine. Again threatening to make life a tornado until satisfaction is reached.



Post# 926483 , Reply# 12   3/13/2017 at 01:24 (2,572 days old) by rapunzel (Sydney)        

Michael D. Schoeb - Chief Executive Officer and President, Alliance Laundry Systems.
William Bittner - vice president, North American Sales. Scott Chiavetta - Vice President, Customer One and Chief Information Officer.

All should be reachable at the ALS worldwide headquarters in Shepard Street, Ripon, WI. Phone # 920 748 3121.

Or you can send a personally addressed letter, outlining your concerns and dissatisfaction, to any or all of these people and they should get it on their desk.


Post# 926485 , Reply# 13   3/13/2017 at 02:20 (2,572 days old) by man114 (Buffalo)        
Had this happen to my less than 4 year old Haier

The machine was only $200 I got it from a local liquidator that gets stuff that's scratched and such from other local dealers. This one had a minor dent in the lid nothing that would physically harm it in any way. It was used as a secondary machine and I thought it did a decent job for just over 3 years, it wasn't used a heck of a lot. I do a ton of laundry though and probably got $200 worth of use out of the thing but the pump kept going. I replaced it twice, the third time it seemed there was something wrong with the controls and it wouldn't enter the pump phase I just ended up tossing it. Haier was less than helpful since it was out of warranty. Take into account this was normally a fairly expensive machine. Had I paid the $500 they were asking I'd have been livid. I lost both my washers this past summer, my 7 year old GE had its bearings go, and the the Haier.

I ended up with a Speed Queen top loader and Samsung Addwash. I originally was going to get a Kenmore Elite that I believe was an LG but I went to a local store and told my wife we should try a Speed Queen, then as luck would have it I found a local place getting out of the sales side as the owner was retiring and his kids were simply going to handle service so I got a heck of a deal on a new Speed Queen. I was somewhat hungover from a long day of grass cutting (I tend to have a few beers while riding around on the tractor as the dust bother my allergies) so I knew Sears had the Kenmore on clearance and I told her "watch this, they'll have marked them down" so I went over to Sears anyway and they had a TOTL Samsung Addwash with a dented top for $499. It was basically too good to refuse and I got $147 or so back in rewards points. Not my first choice but here I am hoping for better luck.

As far as the Haier I disassembled it, kept stuff I might be able to use and chucked it. I chalked it up to Lemons happen. It was built like garbage but still should have lasted more than what I put it through. I really hope they don't stoop to that level with GE. That GE front loader was decently built, I mean I beat the heck out of it.

Hopefully Speed Queen is better about it, defects can happen.

I've said before, my parents have a digital control Amana from 2000/2001 which is basically a Raytheon version of the current Speed Queen top loader as well as one of the last true Maytags. I convinced my dad to buy it when Circuit City stopped carrying appliances, he paid maybe $450. The Maytag is having issues, but that Amana has held up amazingly. The belt went once. Now they did my sister's laundry and mine for years. My wife, son and I lived there for a year while trying to purchase our house, they still do our overflow laundry when our work schedules get us backed up because they're retired, my sister is having a baby and will likely be backlogged a lot and my mother plans on doing the babysitting like my grandmother did. If that machine could tiniest to hold up as it has it really is a testament to the quality of the design.

Incidentally my aunt just bought a Speed Queen after using a Calypso for years (which never had an issue for her). Her husband died several years ago and she's always worried about service calls and such. I recommended the SQ to her after buying mine.

None of ours have been in the least bit problematic thus far and I do a ton of laundry. Lemons happen. It isn't pleasant when it happens to you but it does happen. I've as of now been doing 3-4 loads a day for months. My biggest issue has been a dryer which sat a long time, and has less than 2 years of use on it.


Post# 926503 , Reply# 14   3/13/2017 at 05:52 (2,572 days old) by retro-man (- boston,ma)        

Yes what Rapunzel stated. Fire off an email explaining your plight to the top board members. You WILL get a response, usually within that day. Their secretaries receive their e-mails and filter them, but as you know its these people that get things done. Have had to go this route with Whirlpool on a 2 refrigerators and 3 years later they are still covering 1 that has had the same problem since new.

Jon


Post# 926553 , Reply# 15   3/13/2017 at 11:01 (2,572 days old) by Stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
.
I called SQ again and was told, nicely this time at least, "we do NOT and will NOT replace your washer from this end...call your dealer and work through them."

We kibitzed back and forth about wiring harnesses and pumps...'stuck pumps burn out both the pump and the motor board every time' is my summation. He also speculated that in the last failure perhaps the pump was obstructed and burned out both itself and the board, but did manage to pass through the something it was choking on so there is no evidence of the clog remaining. I reminded him the first board failure didn't happen while the machine was in operation and the pump did not in that instance need to be replaced. He then noted, "it is a new design blah blah blah..."
Let me at this point reiterate, he wasn't snotty like the last SQ rep I spoke with, but was nice and we spoke at legenth trying to trouble shoot all these board failures.

My take away: how in the hell do these Speed Queen front loaders possibly function in a demanding environment if they are so ready to fail in our comparatively undemanding one?
Why would you not protect the motor board with a buffer of some sort?
How can I, in any scenario, replace this unit with another SQ like it knowing how prone to life ending failure they are?
Because remember, to have a motor board and pump replaced out of warranty is upwards of a $1,000 repair bill.

So next I called the dealer in Michigan. The customer service rep was no nonsense, knew her stuff, and got straight to it. They are seeking a return authorization from SQ now...

At least the machine is currently working so the wait will be far more bearable.




This post was last edited 03/13/2017 at 15:52
Post# 926559 , Reply# 16   3/13/2017 at 11:36 (2,572 days old) by Iheartmaytag (Wichita, Kansas)        
Just a suggestion:

iheartmaytag's profile picture

Maybe you should file with the Better Business Bureau, and the State Attorney General, Consumer protection unit just in case there is a lemon law in effect that may help you. 

 

As always, document, document, document.


Post# 926560 , Reply# 17   3/13/2017 at 11:46 (2,572 days old) by johnb300m (Chicago)        

johnb300m's profile picture
I've said it before and I'll say it again.
All my Speed Queen experiences from apartments and college dorms.

They are indeed durable machines that will last a long time.
But I have not seen them really hold up to "abuse" as well as others may say they do.
Under very normal use conditions, they will likely perform fine for a long while.
But I've used many SQ machines through the years in dorms and apartments, and there are always a number of units that are broken for one reason or another. Likely from abuse of course.
CoinMach still owes me about $5.00 in quarters from broken SQ machines that they've refused to repay me since 2006.
That's when I switched to a local laundromat that used all Maytag top loaders and Neptune front loaders.
In the two years I went there, surrounded by some unsavory people who knew nothing about laundry, there was maybe 1 broken dryer in the dryer banks. And 1 broken Neptune that I saw.

So yeah......compared to where a lot of name brand appliances have gone in recent years, SQ has seen itself emerge as "the most durable."
But historically speaking, I think they're pretty average.
The cult following will continue to perplex me :)


Post# 926575 , Reply# 18   3/13/2017 at 13:03 (2,572 days old) by brucelucenta ()        

You can get a lemon in ANYTHING and that is what this appears to be.

Post# 926576 , Reply# 19   3/13/2017 at 13:09 (2,572 days old) by Pierreandreply4 (St-Bruno de montarville (province of quebec) canada)        
you should ask speed queen to exchange your washer

pierreandreply4's profile picture
well its written in the legal warrenty that if the washer is a lemon your in right to ask speed queen to replace and exchange your washer aspecaly if the washer had 3 repairs and is in the lemon category

Post# 926766 , Reply# 20   3/14/2017 at 10:10 (2,571 days old) by askolover (South of Nash Vegas, TN)        

askolover's profile picture

don't give up....as they say, "the squeaky wheel gets the grease"!


Post# 926781 , Reply# 21   3/14/2017 at 11:57 (2,571 days old) by mrb627 (Buford, GA)        
Line Filter

mrb627's profile picture

Sounds like the line filter may be failing to clean the incoming voltage. Or there is a grounding problem causing static to build up.

Malcolm


Post# 926784 , Reply# 22   3/14/2017 at 12:07 (2,571 days old) by henene4 (Heidenheim a.d. Brenz (Germany))        

Weired that the drain pump causes the MCU to fail. Or that the drain pump burns out at all. And that it overfills because of that.

Just so much about this screams 'bad electrical edesign' to me.
I mean, if the drain pump burns out one could imagine that an overcurrent causes the triac of it to burn out, but not that it basicly burns out an entirely different controll system.
And once the drain pump dosen't drain the machine anymore, it should not keep adding water.
And, for the absurd case they put everything onto one board: WHY?



Post# 926795 , Reply# 23   3/14/2017 at 12:40 (2,571 days old) by stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
.
Ironically Speed Queen extols the ability of their machines to handle power grid voltage iregularities with built in protection. The last repairman even said as much and made a point to plug the machine into the wall directly rather than use the surge protector available in the socket below.

One theory is that the original board was early build and faulty...and was replaced with another faulty early run board...ahem, then another.
The board protects, controls, and powers the pump...seemed to be what the SQ tech guy told me on the phone.



Post# 926799 , Reply# 24   3/14/2017 at 12:54 (2,571 days old) by mrb627 (Buford, GA)        
Well...

mrb627's profile picture
There is a line filter and transformer involved. It would seem that one or both of them could be causing this issue. I have essentially the same machine from 2009 and it hasn't had any control problems.

Malcolm


Post# 926800 , Reply# 25   3/14/2017 at 13:07 (2,571 days old) by stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
.
Yes transformer! That thought had occured to me as well and i had forgotten. Is that on the motor board though? If so i have repIaced it 3 times now lol.
I was also told there is also an "upper board"..so even if the culprit is found would i want this machine whose innards may be functioning now, but have been exposed to excess/improper power since jump street?
The repair guys are not electrical engineer types as a general rule it seems, and *for some reason* SQ keeps okaying board replacements without further inquiry. On the second replacement i even told the service manager to make sure they (SQ) wanted to throw another board in this unit without a deeper look see as to what may be causing the problem. I was surprised to find out they were fine with that one AND THE NEXT board as well.
I suspected they know they have a bad design and/or quality control on these.


Post# 926817 , Reply# 26   3/14/2017 at 13:49 (2,571 days old) by Iheartmaytag (Wichita, Kansas)        
Slight drift:

iheartmaytag's profile picture

RE: pumps and circuit boards

A co-worker had the pump go out on her F&P top loader, which in turn also knocked out the circuit board.  Repairman said it is a common occurrence. 

 

Another, non-washer related, the light bulb blew out in the Whirlpool Side/Side refrigerator here at work.  It subsequently knocked out the circuit board for the ice-maker. 

 

Something in the design is allowing a failed component to have an effect on the electronics of these machines.  I do know that when I bought my Maytag pair, and then later my Kitchenaid dishwasher, the sales person said the best money I could spend is buy a surge protector. 


Post# 926839 , Reply# 27   3/14/2017 at 16:07 (2,571 days old) by henene4 (Heidenheim a.d. Brenz (Germany))        

I know that these kind of failures can occur. Happend to us a few weeks ago on the AEG of us.

BUT these motors should be - if I'm not mistaken - some kind of inverter driven contraption. They are brushless varaiable speed motors, aren't they?
If so, a TON of filtering and converting of line power is done before it goes to the motor. That involves a lot of delicate electronic components.

Now, for example, ELux in Europe does use inverters, but locates them on a different board then the main control structures.

But if SQ boasts about durability and serviceability, and knows about a pump burning out likely causeing some (fatal) feedback to the MCU, they'd take care of seperating the components controling the pump from other components, both physicly and electricly.


You can call everything serviceable. If it is is something else.


Post# 926847 , Reply# 28   3/14/2017 at 16:19 (2,571 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

dadoes's profile picture
 
Iheartmaytag: RE: pumps and circuit boards

A co-worker had the pump go out on her F&P top loader, which in turn also knocked out the circuit board. Repairman said it is a common occurrence.
That's true but several years ago F&P issued a service bulletin and retrofit fuse kit to protect the board.  Replacement pumps include the fuse kit.


Post# 926917 , Reply# 29   3/14/2017 at 22:12 (2,570 days old) by panthera (Rocky Mountains)        
I think there is a reason

panthera's profile picture

GE installed massive diodes on the circuit boards and quick-blow fuses just over the rated capacity on heating elements on their Twenty-Eight Hundred series dishwashers, adding extra protection for the motor running the detergent dispenser on the "D" version - the last one.

I've read nothing in the ensuing 30+ years to suggest that modern electronics are less sensitive to heat, humidity, corrosive vapors, static discharge, dirt, grease....

In short, Speed Queen has clearly neglected to protect some vulnerable circuit against one of the above - I'm guessing the idiots ran the pump directly off a marginally adequate transistor instead of using a proper solid-state relay or, heaven's above, a mechanical relay.

So - until they bite the bullet and accept their design failure, this machine is a very expensive piece of junk.

Good luck - I'd make noise everywhere possible until they cave and refund your money.

Use it to buy a mechanical Speed Queen. They're good.


Post# 926928 , Reply# 30   3/14/2017 at 23:07 (2,570 days old) by kb0nes (Burnsville, MN)        
modern electronics are better

kb0nes's profile picture
Modern electronics as a generalization are more resistant to damage from heat, moisture and spikes etc. But of course there is cost cutting which leads to poor design which causes failures, likely far more often then fragility of the components.

I often run across electronics that survive FAR more then I ever thought they could. Our radio club used to have a 100w 144Mhz RF amplifier that was used on one of our repeaters. That amp would sometimes see 3 or more hours of continuous transmit time and it wasn't very efficient. Even with 3 fans on it there were about 5 times that it just quit working. The poor RF transistors would get so hot they would melt the solder and detach from the PC board! The fix was always to just solder the transistor tabs back to the board and it would work again. After the first time I switched to silver bearing solder, and it still did it although less frequently, that solder melts at almost 600 deg F. The transistors never failed.

As for the failures of this particular machine, I don't know enough of the story to be able to even hazard a guess at the failure mode(s). I will surmise that anytime I hear of the same part failing 3 times in succession, I have to bet there was a problem that was missed during service. The SQ electronics are as good or better then anything else on the market today. But it is sure appearing that the SQ customer service and the technicians available to Robert have been an enormous letdown. Speed Queen really needs to step up their game in this regard.


Post# 926963 , Reply# 31   3/15/2017 at 07:33 (2,570 days old) by panthera (Rocky Mountains)        
Phil,

panthera's profile picture

It's true that we have enormously better electronic products/logic systems available today than before. Unfortunately, the people cutting corners haven't been upgraded in, well, basically ever. Big Clive did a 'tube about copies of a commonly used logic chip which didn't have diode protection - and were running inductive loads - just recently. 

 

You're right about SQ dropping the ball here. It reminds me of Maytag's reaction to the first reports of the massive Neptune and Amanananatag problems.

 

 


Post# 927450 , Reply# 32   3/17/2017 at 11:55 (2,568 days old) by Stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
.
And the hits just keep on coming...

Weeell just got off the phone with the local appliance repair outfit that did the most recent work on our SQ FL washer...
seems they installed the *wrong* pump.

The machine has been working fine...I knew something was up!

Yes the washer I hope to have loaded on a truck and waved goodbye to in the not too distant future will be getting it's third pump...to match the three replacement motor boards it has also received I guess.

To clarify, the washer currently and atypically ;-] works fine, but the shop somehow realized the tech install the incorrect pump for my machine and need to R & R it to receive credit from SQ.

{Sigh} No...you cannot make this stuff up.




This post was last edited 03/17/2017 at 12:23
Post# 927469 , Reply# 33   3/17/2017 at 15:38 (2,568 days old) by lotsosudz (Sacramento, CA)        
TV Station

lotsosudz's profile picture
If you do not receive a timely response from Allied, check with your local broadcasting companies. A lot of TV stations, have their own consumer advocate. Try them. Most companies do not want bad publicity, and will do anything to avoid media coverage that is negative. We have a local station that has one, and he seems to get immediate results, no matter what the circumstances may be!
David


Post# 927470 , Reply# 34   3/17/2017 at 15:41 (2,568 days old) by stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
.
And now comes the message that SQ will NOT replace my machine but rather continue attempting to repair it...
until the warranty runs out in less than a year whereupon presumably they will simply stop taking my calls.




This post was last edited 03/17/2017 at 18:56
Post# 927499 , Reply# 35   3/17/2017 at 18:49 (2,567 days old) by criswan (South Bend)        
Snobby

Unfortunately Speed Queen thinks their product is better than it really is. Our experience with SQ is well documented here and tbh I knew as soon as you said that you were waiting to see if they would replace it, the answer would be no. They wouldn't replace our unit which was less than 10 days old and assembled incorrectly at the factory. They simply offered to repair it. I in turn offered to charge the dealer back for my credit card charge of $2k and the dealer ate the entire pair. I hated to do that to my dealer but even they agreed that SQ should have replaced a washer that was less than 10 days old and assembled incorrectly at the factory. I will personally never own another SQ product. Service and pride in your product goes further with me that cult following and perceived reputation.

Post# 927508 , Reply# 36   3/17/2017 at 19:53 (2,567 days old) by earthling177 (Boston, MA)        

Well, I'm sorry you are going thru all of this -- no one deserves this kind of bad service.

On the other hand, thank you for letting us know. You can even point SQ to this thread. Let them know that a lot of potential customers saw this, and we all think that, while anyone can make a defective product every once in a while, it's the actions that follow that that speak louder.

They could have fixed it or replaced it. That would put people like me more at ease spending the cash.

There's still time for them to do it.

But me, I will remember this and how they treated you.

Best of luck,
   -- Paulo.


Post# 927552 , Reply# 37   3/18/2017 at 01:28 (2,567 days old) by speedqueen (Metro-Detroit)        

speedqueen's profile picture
Very unfortunate, indeed. Everyone can make a lemon but they really should have replaced your machine. It is good to know that at least you have that MT dependable care as a backup. SQ is the the highest quality defacto, because all others have cut so many corners. Nothing to do with having the best design ever but due to having not changed it to cheapen. Even an old WCI could be said to have better quality than almost all on the market today.

Today you need someone who is not a washer tech but someone who can diagnose electrical problems like Shango066, RadioTvPhonoNut and Big Clive.

P.S. If you want videos on vintage TVs and radios they(Shango066&RadioTvPhonoNut) are the people to watch.



Post# 927740 , Reply# 38   3/19/2017 at 07:56 (2,566 days old) by askolover (South of Nash Vegas, TN)        

askolover's profile picture

I'm surprised and appalled at all of this.  I'm glad we went the Miele route for now.....but when/if it breaks down I'm sure I'll be singing a different tune.


Post# 927745 , Reply# 39   3/19/2017 at 08:49 (2,566 days old) by brucelucenta ()        

It is a real shame that there is really not one single washer/dryer manufacturer that is truly dependable and/or have a good backing by the company for repair/replacement. I know that my LG made machines may not be the best, but I would be appalled to have this much trouble with that new of a machine. The ONLY thing I can see that SQ has going for it, is that the top loaders are made basically the same as typical top loaders in the past. Is that a good thing? I don't know. It seems that IF some of the new agitator models would fill fuller on wash and rinse they might do the same. The front loaders are heavier built like the commercial units. Is that better or necessary for home units? I can't see any indication of that, so perhaps not. It obviously doesn't make them last longer, since they have the same type of electronics that other machines have.

Post# 927936 , Reply# 40   3/20/2017 at 13:35 (2,565 days old) by norgeway (mocksville n c )        
I have always said

Electronic controls DO NOT BELONG on ranges, refrigerators or washing machines!!!Good old fashioned mechanical switches and timers give much less trouble, I WILL NEVER own a touch pad controlled anything!

Post# 927941 , Reply# 41   3/20/2017 at 15:21 (2,565 days old) by Pierreandreply4 (St-Bruno de montarville (province of quebec) canada)        
kind of controls i would see on modern topload and front loa

pierreandreply4's profile picture
i can not put the d in the title but its topload and front load but here are the kind of controls i would see if not electronic and for those that went a white on white control panel.

  Photos...       <              >      Photo 1 of 3         View Full Size
Post# 928094 , Reply# 42   3/21/2017 at 17:10 (2,564 days old) by Stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
.
This just in...no warranty extension will be considered in my case.

From my dealer:

I have made our distributor and Speed Queen aware three times that your laundry room has filled with smoke until the washer was unplugged twice.
They responded, "The current warranty is until 3/9/2018 Parts and Labor. 5 Years on the Motor, Bearings, and rust through and lifetime on outer tub and wash basket. Notes have been added. "


Lol...i remember GM dicking me around like this over a defective batterey on our Saturn. They went bankrupt within a year or two as I recall.







Post# 928100 , Reply# 43   3/21/2017 at 17:30 (2,564 days old) by Launderess (Quiet Please, There´s a Lady on Stage)        
Time to up your game and go public.

launderess's profile picture
Write to Consumer Reports, local media, etc... No one should have to suffer through a major appliance needing this much repair every other week or so it seems.

If you paid for the thing via credit card see if the company can do something. Does the card offer extended warranty and or any other "customer service or dispute" benefits?

Personally think the ball is in dealer's court now, they should step in and offer to take back the machine, issue a credit for something else, and then sort out Alliance/SQ later. If it means eating a loss, then so be it; maybe if they threatened to drop Alliance unless they did the right thing by them it would light a fire.


Post# 928107 , Reply# 44   3/21/2017 at 17:42 (2,563 days old) by ea56 (Cotati, Calif.)        

ea56's profile picture
Well, so much for Alliance's superior warranty on their SQ washers. What you have been through is not my idea of customer care. It's more like, couldn't care less. I agree with Launderess, go public, contact your credit card company. BTW, did you ever try contacting the CEO in corporate, like another poster suggested? This couldn't hurt, and you may be pleasantly surprised that this will get you satisfaction. Good luck to you.
Eddie


Post# 928110 , Reply# 45   3/21/2017 at 18:08 (2,563 days old) by Stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
.
I just notified my dealer customer care rep that I would happily accept a store credit on the total purchase.
Although the dryer has not had any issues, we want a matching pair...and SQ has taken their brand out of the running for us...for-evah.




This post was last edited 03/21/2017 at 19:16
Post# 928118 , Reply# 46   3/21/2017 at 18:56 (2,563 days old) by mark_wpduet (Lexington KY)        
Ugh

mark_wpduet's profile picture
I keep coming back to this post to see if your problem was ever resolved - and still nothing! Crazy!

I had a similar experience YEARS ago with DirecTV. I posted on the Satellite forums and someone responded to send an email to a certain person in power at DirecTV. I did, and suddenly, everything was fixed in 24 hrs.

If giving SQ bad publicity is what it takes, then I say do what the others say. Go public.


Post# 928199 , Reply# 47   3/22/2017 at 07:38 (2,563 days old) by mrb627 (Buford, GA)        
Wonder...

mrb627's profile picture

If the dealer did reach out to Alliance or are feeding you a line.
A reputable dealer would have stepped up to the plate by now... IMO.

Malcolm


Post# 928267 , Reply# 48   3/22/2017 at 13:29 (2,563 days old) by kb0nes (Burnsville, MN)        

kb0nes's profile picture
I for one wouldn't be talking to the dealer at all at this point. This should be taken in a reasonable, non-confrontational manner directly to the Alliance higher up's. The name of their product is being sullied by this authorized dealer that is there to properly represent their product. For whatever reason they seem unable to do so. Malcolm's point is valid and Speed Queen needs to know the scoop.

I wouldn't listen to the dealers story concerning their communications with the distributor or Alliance. Unless I saw it in writing I wouldn't trust their word to be accurate. They may just be trying to step away from this whole deal :(


Post# 928268 , Reply# 49   3/22/2017 at 13:35 (2,563 days old) by earthling177 (Boston, MA)        

I would be surprised if CA didn't have some law to protect consumers in cases like this.

Ask the Attorney General's office (they usually love easy cases like this) about a law along the lines of "product has to work well for a reasonable amount of time", like we have here in MA.

A friend of ours was given the run around and told his cellphone was "old" by one and half years, that's why it had broken -- then he told the vendor about the law in MA that expects a product to work well for a reasonable amount of time, which in case of cellphones was at least 3 years, they exchanged the phone on the spot.

Good luck!
   -- Paulo.


Post# 928272 , Reply# 50   3/22/2017 at 13:45 (2,563 days old) by Stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
.
Actually it was SQ who sent me to the dealer.
I did not go to the dealer once until after the third major break down. That was only a week ago.
The dealer was, as I have said, straight forward, tactful, and on it. When these machines were delivered far later than they initially expected, they, at my request, quickly refunded a substantial sum that equaled a lower price on the pair I had found in the mean time elsewhere.

In further news the dealer now says they need an "RA" -return authorization- from SQ to do anything more. Meaning no "store credit" will be happening...just yet.
My rep said to notify them immediately of any further breakdowns and she will promptly re-apply for an RA, which if accepted would open the doors to a full resolution of my sad situation.

One thing that happened whilst SQ was looking through my documentation, they realized the last pump installed was for the older model FL machine. Works the same but got me to thinking if other parts LIKE THE HARD TO FIND BOARDS were also an incorrect part substituted for the correct one...much to my chagrin as this time they almost certainly would not be functional equivalents, and could therefore have been the source of my machine's repeated failures.

Hard tellin' not knowin'...the view from the coffee shop where I sit.


  View Full Size


This post was last edited 03/22/2017 at 18:54
Post# 928274 , Reply# 51   3/22/2017 at 14:01 (2,563 days old) by ea56 (Cotati, Calif.)        
Robert,

ea56's profile picture
"I just notified my dealer customer care rep that I would happily accept a store credit on the total purchase."


I have to agree with Phil in reply #48, this dealer can't be depended upon to have your best interests in this matter. And notifiying them that you will happily accept a store credit has likely sent them into roars of laughter. If you had requested this remedy soon after delivery, you may have had some success. At this point it is an issue for Alliance to resolve. Go right to the top and contact the CEO of Alliance. Then if he or she won't authorize replacement, go the the State of California Dept of Consumer Affairs like Paulo suggested.

In 1991 I purchased a new 1991 Mercury Capri that had nothing but problems from day one. I was able to document that it had been in service dept for 31 days in the first 3 mo. and the problems had still not been resolved. This was pre computer for me. I sat down at my IBM typewriter and wrote a 4 page letter, single spaced, to the owner of the dealership, enumerating each and every visit to the service dept and the negative outcomes. I mailed it and 2 days later I received a call from this owner, and he arranged a meeting with himself, I and a Lincoln Mercury rep. They bought the car back under the California Lemon Law, and it cost me zero dollars, but endless aggravation up to that point. It is the squeeky wheel that gets the grease. But you need go to the top and deal with someone that can actually help you. And in your case at this point the selling dealer is not the party that can help you.
Eddie


Post# 928277 , Reply# 52   3/22/2017 at 14:34 (2,563 days old) by Stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
.
I am giving the parties involved every chance I can to do the right thing...
I don't have an axe to grind here, I really wanted my SQ machines to be everything the "lucky" owners say.

Regardless of what their product is or is not, it's SQ's almost steadfast refusal to replace my SQ lemon...or show any interest as to why my machine is such a POS...that grates the most.
But to know that unquestionably takes a few go rounds.
Each of these go rounds will cost them more future customers when I put this story out there more broadly.
SQ looks increasingly like a poster-child for the disconnected-money-grubbing-corporate-greedsters that have laid waste to the heart and soul of this country.

Don't fall for the 'Ruse from Ripon' is what I have learned in all this.
Get proper modern engineering...not warmed over, also ran, low tech from yesteryear...waving an American flag while selling a made in the USA box full of Mexican electronics.

Does Apple have their computers made south of the boarder?
No they do not. As Steve Jobs famously told President Obama after being asked, "why can't Apple make more stuff here"...he answered simply that the skill to do so now lies across the Pacific. The manufacturing eco-system there is too many generations of evolution past ours...or Mexico's.

I'm not happy about that and wanted to do something about it. I feel I was taken advantage of and should have just stuck to what I already know about cars. Don't buy American and expect a Toyota or Honda...it probably just ain't gonna work out the same way in the end.





This post was last edited 03/22/2017 at 18:49
Post# 928332 , Reply# 53   3/22/2017 at 18:49 (2,562 days old) by ryanm (New York)        

When I had my issues with Speed Queen, my dealer told me that they really don't care about home laundry customers because their main focus is on commercial laundry. I never got them to help me with issues on my dryer or washer either. The parts for my washer are still covered under their warranty, BUT the LABOR will cost more than the machine is worth to replace all the parts according to my dealer, so what is the sense of parts having coverage for long term after main warranty wears out? Of course that holds true for any brand. I know many on the site here may not agree with what my dealer told me, but in my experience I didn't feel like a well taken care of customer either.

Post# 928395 , Reply# 54   3/23/2017 at 01:12 (2,562 days old) by kb0nes (Burnsville, MN)        
Does Apple have their computers made south of the boarder?

kb0nes's profile picture
Nope...

Apple computers are 100% made in China. Which is easily as bad or worse then anything Mexico does. Please note, I say this both as an electronics technician and an Apple fan.

The problem you have experienced has zero to do with Mexican electronics. You have dealt with bad service and a bad service company. The same part doesn't fail in one machine 3 times unless there was a problem that was missed by the tech that serviced it. If the electronics themselves were so horrible, then every machine would have this much trouble, they don't.

I'm not absolving the dealer of SQ of wrong doing, they have treated you poorly. But blaming the electronics country of origin is equally wrong.


Post# 928398 , Reply# 55   3/23/2017 at 02:15 (2,562 days old) by Stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
.
First i should say my comments were off the cuff and generally ancillary to my situation.
My point is, and I should clarify, for what SQ is perhaps willing to pay for their computers, or Apple for that matter, only China can produce a decent product...again, for that price. They have the infrastructure, cost structure, and experience to consistently get the results needed to keep a company like Apple coming back year after year for the parts they need. And of course they can and do produce lots of junk too....e.g spin-sploding TL Samsung's or their spontaneously combusting phones.
Nevertheless I think LG and Samsung are overall ahead on this with their FL washers because what we have here when you get down to it is a computer that washes cloths. Not the other way around cause a motor board replaced is upwards of $1,000 and the machine only costs a few hundred more.
It's the critical link, with it's fuzzy logic and other wiz bang capabilities that can be tapped for the performance consumers are demanding.
We see these two companies scoring overall highest with the critics (Consumer Reports, Reviewed.com, CNET etc.) and the general public. I see the popularity in the used market where LG and Samsung command the highest prices for used FL machines...they hold their value much better, at least in my area. Much like Hondas and Toyotas do in the used car market. Resale value is a strong indicator of overall value in a product and not easily manipulated.
Stuff i knew but failed to adequetly consider before i made the leap and threw down the cash for new SQ's.
The story i bought fits better with the mechanical TL machines, not the FL machines imo.

I too strongly suspect my machine has an undiagnosed fault and have said so earlier.
But I think SQ knows it has quality control problems with it's electrical parts suppliers cause all they want to do is R and R part after part in my washer with literally no end in sight. Maybe for what they want to pay they need to look elswhere to achieve a better level of quality.




This post was last edited 03/23/2017 at 04:19
Post# 928418 , Reply# 56   3/23/2017 at 08:34 (2,562 days old) by mtn1584 (USA)        
Robert,

I am sorry for your troubles, I lost track. At this point in time is the machine working?
You have three repairs to date for the same part?
Check this out about the California Lemon Law.
Good luck,
Mike

www.hg.org/article.aspQUE...


CLICK HERE TO GO TO mtn1584's LINK


Post# 928434 , Reply# 57   3/23/2017 at 10:03 (2,562 days old) by johnb300m (Chicago)        
mis dos centavos

johnb300m's profile picture
I'll just chime in and say that the origin of the electronics or components no longer matters. (I know, I know, I'd love for us to make everything again too, it just ain't happening, no matter what the Big Orange says)

Our products are made in Mexico. Our electronics are made in Mexico.
Sure, we have our problems from time to time, but by and large, the products our MX plant puts out are excellent and dependable.
Our Mexican managers and engineers are some of the nicest and smartest people I've dealt with in my career.
It comes down to how you manage your factory, and who you hire and what company culture is instilled.

I've seen and dealt with great products from China, Mexico etc, as well as absolute garbage.
I've also dealt with absolute garbage from the US.....and it's disheartening. No matter how many times we try to source domestic.

However, I'm proud to say, when we find a good US supplier, they hold their tolerances nice and tight, and consistent, more so than overseas could even try if their lives depended on it.


Post# 928439 , Reply# 58   3/23/2017 at 10:15 (2,562 days old) by henene4 (Heidenheim a.d. Brenz (Germany))        
So, just to fact check

With everyone on this site:

Can we now all agree the SQ as whole for the consumer grade market is NO different then most other brands?

They have a few lemons (maybe a few less then others), service sometimes sucks, their components are certanly not any cheaper to replace, and their performance is ok?

Cause if you still deny that, you should certanly reconsider your way of thinking.


Post# 928448 , Reply# 59   3/23/2017 at 11:17 (2,562 days old) by Stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
.
Yes Henrik, like you said...except I would add, if you get a lemon prepare to figh SQ tooth-and-nail for a replacement...cause that is how they roll.

My machine does work at the moment, cause it has less than 10 loads on the latest board/pump, but I realized I haven't heard it go into high speed spin for SOME time.
Hmm...
lemon law here I come, thx mtn.


Post# 928668 , Reply# 60   3/24/2017 at 14:45 (2,561 days old) by mtn1584 (USA)        
Not so fast Germany!!!

I'm not going to throw the baby out with the bath water on an American company that has thousands of happy customers because of a few lemons and bad customer service, however it may have been received. The same goes for Whirlpool Corporation.
Alliance and Whirlpool are the last two TRUE AMERICAN appliance companies and I'm not throwing the towel in on either one.
1. Many folks have had an excellent experience with Alliance myself included.
2. High demand for their products has sent this company into expansion mode thus creating more jobs.
3. Bojack did get jerked around but his machine is working (for now) hopefully it will continue to do so.
He has every right not to want another SQ, that's his choice. I personally would've handled it differently. I'd have gone to Alliance and only Alliance after the third repair and taken it to the top. They do stand behind their products. I've dealt with them myself and have 3 W/D sets made by them in the family and several others who purchased based on my recommendation and none have had any issues.
An American company who employs Americans and puts the money back into America will always get my support!
Yes even Honda, Toyota and Nissan all have factories in the USA and they employ Americans!
I do not see LG or Samsung having any factories in the USA or employing any Americans . Money spent on their products goes out of the country and the only one benefitting is LG or Samsung, no matter how pretty or up to date their products are.
I've even suggested to a friend that has an older SQ which he's going to replace, to take a look at Maytag or Whirlpool. So while this was a bad experience, mom and pop stores cannot take back items the way Big Bic stores like Sears, Best Buy and Lowes can, simple as that. There is more to it than flat out saying that Alliance is no better than others. Walk into any independent appliance store any they will ALL recommend SQ Washers and Dryers.
Bojack, you know I'm sorry for your issues and this rebuttal has nothing to do with you.
Mike


Post# 928671 , Reply# 61   3/24/2017 at 14:54 (2,561 days old) by washman (o)        

no henene4 we can't.


Post# 928674 , Reply# 62   3/24/2017 at 15:12 (2,561 days old) by Yogitunes (New Jersey)        

yogitunes's profile picture
not to add ill-will.....but something to keep in the back of your mind.....

there could be something in your homes wiring causing odd issues......

my sister has a Historical home....and most of it is knob-tube wiring....I don't know what it is, but she has burnt through more mother boards on 2 electronic washers than I can count....she went back to an old school machine, and no issues since....there is something in that house, makes me think its haunted...

note: these same 2 broken machines work fine at my house.....with the same boards that would not work at her house....


I was hoping Alliance would replace your units with new ones....if the new one works without issues, your good to go, but if it happens to a second set, I might think there is something in the house/wiring causing issues....


Post# 928675 , Reply# 63   3/24/2017 at 15:23 (2,561 days old) by johnb300m (Chicago)        
LG to TN

johnb300m's profile picture
www.lg.com/us/press-release/lg-el...

Personally, this annoys me.
Another foreign transplant here, offering low wage jobs while all the profits go overseas.
Yay......


Post# 928680 , Reply# 64   3/24/2017 at 16:43 (2,561 days old) by RevvinKevin (Tinseltown - Shakey Town - La-La Land)        
Echoing Eddie's (ea56) comments in reply #47.....

revvinkevin's profile picture

 

Go right to the top and contact the CEO of Alliance.

 

Years ago when Maytag was still a real company (unlike now), my co-worker had a Maytag Neptune FL washer & dryer he bought new.  It had been repaired once under warranty, then once out of pocket and when it failed again 3 months later, out of sheer frustration, he was at a loss what to do next (not wanting to put more $$$ into it) and was ready to kick it to the curb.  

 

I suggested he contact the president of Maytag directly, but he was reluctant.  I took it upon myself to find out who Maytags president was, then composed a letter, describing his history of growing up with Maytags and being a loyal Maytag customer, the problems with this machine (not long out of warranty) and the fact that his faith in Maytag had now almost completely vanished.  I printed the letter, he signed it and mailed it.

 

About 10-12 days later a "Maytag repairman" called to schedule time to come repair the machine, all with no cost to him.   It worked for a few more years, but I can't remember now why he replaced them.  They've been using a 1980 A806 & DG808 (that I found for them) since and they've been very happy.

 

Obviously the point to my story is, take a chance and write to the CEO of Alliance, what have you got to loose?  They may just buy them back or replace them (if you're willing).

 

Kevin 

 


Post# 928682 , Reply# 65   3/24/2017 at 16:56 (2,561 days old) by mrb627 (Buford, GA)        
If you do....

mrb627's profile picture
Decide to write to upper management at Alliance, avoid opinions, attitudes, and adjectives. Stick to the factual account of everything that has happened. Make no demands.... Simply ask for help resolving your issues...

Malcolm


Post# 928684 , Reply# 66   3/24/2017 at 17:00 (2,561 days old) by RevvinKevin (Tinseltown - Shakey Town - La-La Land)        
I agree Malcolm

revvinkevin's profile picture

 

 

That's how I wrote this letter for my coworker, very professional / polite, only the history and facts.  


Post# 928686 , Reply# 67   3/24/2017 at 17:05 (2,561 days old) by Pierreandreply4 (St-Bruno de montarville (province of quebec) canada)        
if you write to speed queen upper management here my advice

pierreandreply4's profile picture
if you do write to speed queen upper management when your ready to send your letter i would recomend that you send your letter as a registered letter.

Post# 928696 , Reply# 68   3/24/2017 at 18:44 (2,560 days old) by ea56 (Cotati, Calif.)        

ea56's profile picture
Thanks Kevin reply #64! All my life I've spoken for myself whenever I have purchased a product or service that turns out to be unsatisfactory. And I always go to the highest level I can from the start. And I totally agree with Malcolm reply#65, stick to the facts and leave the nastiness out of your letter or telephone conversation. But be clear on what your expectations were when you originally made the purchase and explain and document how those expectations weren't met. Speak for yourself! I was taught this at home, this is how my parents always handled any situation like this, and they were always successful and so have I always been successful using this practice. People always want to "lawyer up" when they feel they've been wronged. Nine times out of ten any rational communication with the person that is most likely to have the power to fix your problem works. If it doesn't then you can pursue legal avenues for a resolution. Why make things more difficult than they already are? Keep you eye on the ball. BTW, Olav "Rapunzel" l gave name and phone number of the CEO for Alliance in an earlier post, it couldn't hurt to make a positive contact with this person.

One more pointer that has served me well in these kinds of situations. I learned this at a supervisors training seminar in 89', and I've used it every since. Write your letter of complaint or request using the KKK formula. In this case the letters stand for kiss, kick, kiss. Start out with something positive, and sometimes this is difficult, then state clearly what your expectation is and end with something positive , for instance ,"I'm thanking you in advance for your attention to my concern". I always used this approach whenever I needed to have a conference with a worker that was having problems. This really works very well most of the time. Everybody wants to be treated with respect.

Good Luck!
Eddie


Post# 928698 , Reply# 69   3/24/2017 at 18:59 (2,560 days old) by Lorainfurniture (Cleveland )        

Not to hijack the thread, but 600 jobs is 600 jobs. Contrary to popular belief, some, (arguably the majority,) people are idiots and are only capable of a $10/ hr job. I think it's good news.

If you want to discuss this further please start a new thread.


Post# 928800 , Reply# 70   3/25/2017 at 04:14 (2,560 days old) by askolover (South of Nash Vegas, TN)        
Reply #63

askolover's profile picture

Johnb300m,

I used to work for LG (Lucky Goldstar) in Huntsville, AL 25 years ago (it was a Goldstar TV plant back then).  They didn't pay much then either, but they had good insurance benefits that started on day 1 of employment.  They had the Asian work mentality...work work work, 12 hours a day 5 and 6 days a week.  The building is still in Huntsville and is the head office for customer service and operations support.

 

We now return to our regularly scheduled program already in progress....



CLICK HERE TO GO TO askolover's LINK

Post# 928882 , Reply# 71   3/25/2017 at 16:53 (2,560 days old) by alr2903 (TN)        

Our Amana Fridge was assembled in America. I  think most of the electronic controls are imported.  Times are tough and when a community suffers a reversal of fortune the population is not necessarily a bunch of mouth breathers.  People suffer when a major employer absconds with the jobs.  I think there are some intelligent people in Newton Iowa, Herrin IL, Louisville Ky.  $10 bucks/hr. looks good when you do not have a job. Many times people get "stuck" when the employer leaves and they are stuck with a house they can no longer sell.


Post# 933657 , Reply# 72   4/21/2017 at 07:16 (2,533 days old) by combo52 (50 Year Repair Tech Beltsville,Md)        
New Speed Queen FL Washer Problems

combo52's profile picture

I almost hate to reopen this thread, But hears my take on what happened.

 

1 The service company was terrible.

 

2 This washer is NOT a Lemon and SQ should NOT replace it.

 

3 From my count this washer only broke down once do to a component failure. The first failure was likley a faulty main motor-relay board. I checked with our parts distributor [ the only authorized parts source for an area of over 6 million people ] and they have only supplied 3 of these motor boards in the last year.

 

4 The second difficulty Robert had could have easily been fixed by the user, page 25 in the owners instructions tells how to remove items stuck in the drain pump or trap. The only tool required is a 5/16" nut driver to remove the lower front panel. The small sock that got stuck in the pump CAN NOT damage either the pump or motor board. The only thing that will happen is a failure for the washer to drain and maybe a slight hot smell of the pump trying to run [ this washer DID NOT fill the laundry room with smoke, nothing burned ]

 

Note; the drain pump is driven by a relay on the board so a stuck pump CAN NOT damage the board.

 

5 the third problem was apparently something in the pump that dissapeared when they tried replacing it, remember they tried replacing the board again and it did not fix the problem.

 

Note, SQ is selling their machines through self-servicing dealers, they DO NOT approve of on line sales.

 

If Robert had bought this washer from a local dealer and they had given this type of lousy service he would have a claim against the local dealer.

 

John L.


Post# 933705 , Reply# 73   4/21/2017 at 12:15 (2,533 days old) by brucelucenta ()        

Well, nothing like having a sympathetic ear! LOL Aside from that, what kind of a washing machine allows a sock to get stuck in the pump in this day and age? Even the old Westinghouse machines guarded against that. It re affirms my opinion that they aren't that great of a machine. Perhaps no worse than any other, but certainly no better.



This post was last edited 04/21/2017 at 12:47
Post# 933922 , Reply# 74   4/22/2017 at 16:22 (2,532 days old) by jkbff (Happy Rock, ND)        

jkbff's profile picture
Alliance/Speed Queen makes the product. They depend on the retailers/independent servicers to keep things running.

We are a platinum speed queen dealer. We get called with problems, we diagnose the issue and Alliance sends us the part. The tech goes to the customer and installs the part. If that doesn't fix the original complaint, they send us another part.

We have never had an issue of a lemon machine. We've replaced nearly everything in one machine because it was damaged in shipping, but we've never had a machine that Alliance just flat out refused to service.

That being said, a retailer/servicer with a good working relationship with Alliance is going to get further with them than ... people that are less than ideal to work with.

As an appliance/furniture store, we have a warranty/service department with two people that are paid to only work with our distributors/manufactures and maintain those relationships. We have a service writer as well as 5 techs. They all go through the training programs the manufactures/distributors offer so that when a customer calls with a complaint, they can pull up the schematics and know what they are looking at and what they are dealing with.

More often than not, we have the part in hand the first time we walk in the door because of this which has stream-lined our service process.

That being said, in the last three years, there have been less than 10 service calls on Speed Queen. We service 57 counties between our two locations.

What I am saying is if one retailer/service place is not giving you the service you think you should be getting, call another one. Keep calling them until you get the service you expect. You shouldn't have to do that, but that is the only way you are going to get decent service is to find somewhere with decent people out in the field.

Oh, and Apple makes the Mac Pro in the USA.


Post# 933938 , Reply# 75   4/22/2017 at 17:54 (2,531 days old) by whirlykenmore78 (Prior Lake MN (GMT-0500 CDT.))        
For God's sake Bruce:

whirlykenmore78's profile picture
Robert is NOT a Dog that took a dump on the carpet. He doesn't need his nose rubbed in it! We know you don't like SQ FLs. Please out of common decency, LET IT GO.
WK78


Post# 933943 , Reply# 76   4/22/2017 at 18:13 (2,531 days old) by mtn1584 (USA)        

LG products: Made in Korea
SQ products Made in USA

LG Appliance Manufacturing Jobs in USA : ZERO
SQ Appliance Manufacturing Jobs in USA: Several hundred
Plus supporting Independant Businesses such as Appliance Dealers, Laundromats, etc....
More People employed.

TOTAL INVESTMENT BY LG IN AMERICA: ZERO
TOTAL INVESTMENT BY ALLIANCE IN AMERICA: $$$$$

Not to mention jobs lost at WP because Sears now uses Korean mfg. to save money.

If you had an American made washer, SQ, WP, GE or even Frigidaire I could have a one on one with you Bruce, but you don't and the only person you helped was yourself. I don't care if LG has plans to build s USA plant. The point is that SQ is a highly regarded American made consumer product with an overall sterling reputation based on consumer reviews online and they have excellent warranty coverage. IWe know you bought your LG/Kenmore to wash your king size comforter. Who gives a crap!!! I'm for the little guy, right or wrong Alliance has invested in America, returns money to America, and makes a product that folks want. I hope your LG lasts 100 years!!! I don't care, none of us care, the guy got a raw deal, it's like you get physically excited when someone bad mouths SQ. Yes I support SQ, but also WP the last American appliance companies.


Post# 933979 , Reply# 77   4/23/2017 at 00:44 (2,531 days old) by tolivac (greenville nc)        

I am with MTN1584--SQ has got to be the last of the US major appliance builders-WP is now an international maker-not all of their machines are built here.SQ is!And Korean built machines-or other places-Do the people building these really care?They are NOT likely to buy any of the products they are making.SQ realizes their machines are going to be bought and used by AMERICANS!So their workers are going to build them as though they were going to buy the machine for themselves.They could own the machines they are building!

Post# 934005 , Reply# 78   4/23/2017 at 07:31 (2,531 days old) by brucelucenta ()        
whirlykenmore78 & mtn1584

Ok, so you are saying that because speed queen is built in the us and because they employ people who live here we should buy them to be patriotic and supportive of our country? There was a time when I would have expected more from a manufacturing company in the USA. Unfortunately that is no longer true. I just think that it is wrong to blame the user for a problem with a machine that should never have been a problem to begin with! It seems to me that many are blaming everyone except good old speed queen and that is where the problem lies. I am doing nothing but pointing out what should be obvious to anyone and not trying to rub anyone's nose in anything! And I very much resent you saying that! Robert is who I was defending, since he is the innocent victim who had the misfortune of buying this machine. I really have no great love of korean or any other foreign made machines, but I do want something that meets the requirements I need in a washer and dryer and I would like them to be as trouble free as possible. That is why I quit buying American made automobiles and have a trouble free Toyota. It is sad but true. I wish things were different. And btw, I think it RIDICULOUS that a front load speed queen could EVER end up with a sock stuck in the pump! That is not something that should even be possible with proper designing!



This post was last edited 04/23/2017 at 07:53
Post# 934027 , Reply# 79   4/23/2017 at 10:18 (2,531 days old) by whirlykenmore78 (Prior Lake MN (GMT-0500 CDT.))        
Right you are Bruce:

whirlykenmore78's profile picture
It does not make any sense how a sock got caught in the pump. I was looking at my machine last night and I can't figure out how it got in there. Robert has had the misfortune of buying a machine that had a defect and that can happen with any MFR. What made matters much worse is the HORRIBLE service and botched repairs(IIRC wrong parts used. I misunderstood you when I thought that you were rubbing Roberts nose in anything. For that and for my harsh post I apologize.
WK78


Post# 934062 , Reply# 80   4/23/2017 at 14:22 (2,531 days old) by combo52 (50 Year Repair Tech Beltsville,Md)        
Socks and Other Forign Objects Caught in washers

combo52's profile picture
I have never seen any washer where can not get into the outer tub, especially FL washers, we see it every week with any brand and model washer you can name, there is nothing wrong with Roberts washer.

We worked on 24 SQ FL washers that were used at a youth training facility, the young people did their own laundry and I know that we pulled ID cards out of everyone of those washers outer tubs.




This post was last edited 04/23/2017 at 16:08
Post# 934065 , Reply# 81   4/23/2017 at 14:33 (2,531 days old) by Stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
.
I agree with Bruce's basic point throughout...that whatever SQ machines are, they are not different in KIND to other machines, but simply different versions.
Or said another way, pick your poison. What works for one may not for another.

Unfortunately, given my washer's repeated and essentially identical break downs, I can no longer have confidence regarding this machine. E.g., recently I paused before leaving the house BECAUSE the washer was still operating...didn't feel confident something might not happen again and i might return wondering what all those fire trucks are doing on my block.

And if that's not bad enough, I now KNOW the company feels no compunction to act beyond what they legally are required.
Yes I could politely lobby the CEO, but that wouldn't change the fact I paid a premium to a company wherein ONE HAS TO POLITELY LOBBY THE CEO for a shot at reasonable consideration. It's the expectation, the rule is sadly otherwise.
That people who love SQ implore you to, "buy from a tip-top dealer, or else"...MAKES MY POINT.

It is working now, and the longer it does so the more I feel the issue was incorrect and/or faulty early run parts or firmware.
If it remains working, for say another DECADE before needing ANYTHING, I may finally be where "regret" will not be how I characterize my total SQ ownership experience.
It is a solid machine, when it works, no doubt, and I like that...but every pause of the wash drum sets my mind on edge until I hear it in motion again...not what one wishes for after paying nearly 2x the going rate in hopes of experiencing the opposite ownership sensation.








This post was last edited 04/23/2017 at 15:20
Post# 934185 , Reply# 82   4/24/2017 at 04:46 (2,530 days old) by brucelucenta ()        

My entire point is that IF someone should buy an American made machine and spend WAY more $$$ than what they normally would in the hopes that because it is made in the USA they will have a better made machine and better service in addition to supporting our own COUNTRY by buying it, then they would naturally expect it to be a decent machine and to be able to get decent service if it needs repairs. He has gotten NEITHER. And to top things off, he was basically told that it was HIS fault because he didn't buy it from a local dealer and bought it on line! Does anyone think that is reasonable? I certainly do not! Obviously it is just a giant crap shoot when you buy appliances these days and there are none better than the other. IF I lived in the area where "combo" is, I am sure I would probably buy a speed queen machine because I would know that there was a competent and reputable company besides the manufacture behind my purchase. But anywhere else, I would be very hesitant to do so and would probably not. It all stems back to being as good as the company who will service and take care of it. In this particular case, that company did not do a very good job. Just having listened to the few people who have had problems with both their top and front load speed queen washers I do not think speed queen is any better than any other brand. They are just geared toward a more commercial application, which is not always better in a regular household machine. They lack flexibility in many ways in comparison to other machines also.

Post# 934207 , Reply# 83   4/24/2017 at 07:29 (2,530 days old) by mtn1584 (USA)        
I prefer to take the word of COMBO52.........

Ever heard the expression 'one bad apple don't spoil the whole bunch?"
Bruce, when you buy an Alliance built washer or dryer then maybe you can be taken seriously. Meanwhile endlessly posting negativity about Alliance based on others experiences when the overwhelming majority of reviews have been nothing but positive make you look like nothing but a fool.
Your comments are based on heresay and no one wants to hear your opinion on the matter over and over and over and over again.
When you own a product then you can complain or praise it all you want. Meanwhile please give your first hand opinions a rest, they are really annoying and you are turning people away from this forum with your know it all attiutude!
We get it, you don't like Alliance, you've never owned one!
I don't like LG, I HAVE owned one and have had it flood my family room not once but twice. My comments are based on ownership, what are your based on?
Please DON'T ANSWER SINCE YOU PERPETUALLY HAVE TO HAVE THE LAST WORD.


Post# 934213 , Reply# 84   4/24/2017 at 08:41 (2,530 days old) by Iheartmaytag (Wichita, Kansas)        
mtn1584

iheartmaytag's profile picture

You have to forgive some of the posters here.  Effects of Long term exposure to cleaning fluids, don't you know.


Post# 934233 , Reply# 85   4/24/2017 at 10:25 (2,530 days old) by Repair-man (Pittsburgh PA)        
Not sure why I would want to get involved in this debate but

Since it was suggested that the only people who should comment on a product are those who own them I happen to have 42 Alliance built washers / dryers. All slightly less than two years old obviously in a laundromat. My experience so far has not been that great. Long term they may prove to be better. I have 10 of the 20# Horizon soft mount washers that are mechanically identical to the residential washer that is the topic of this thread. I find it amazing that the parts distributor mentioned earlier in this thread has only ever sold 3 boards. I myself have needed 6. At one time I needed 3 at the same time and there was such demand for them that I had to wait two weeks. I do my own repairs. I have been in the appliance service business since 1990. They send me the parts free of charge while under the three year part warranty. I have had several other problems as well. I find the people to be somewhat rude and condescending when you question them. When my dryers were new the doors would randomly pop open. Customer would start the dryer and leave only to return to wet clothes sometimes on the floor. The official fix was to stick a wooden broom handle in the hinge while forcing the door shut effectively springing the hinge enough to take the pressure off of one side. It worked but seemed a bit odd for a $7000 stack dryer. Like I said they may end up being more reliable as older machines but initially I have had a lot of issues.

Post# 934254 , Reply# 86   4/24/2017 at 13:23 (2,530 days old) by brucelucenta ()        

Sounds like I'm not the only one with the same opinion.


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