Thread Number: 21889
1991 Kenmore DD portable
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Post# 344016   4/21/2009 at 21:16 (5,454 days old) by davek ()        

I recently bought a Kenmore portable, which is direct drive. It otherwise looks VERY similar to the Whirlpool belt drive that's in another thread. It now works perfectly after replacing the agitator dogs and putting a new faucet hose to again make it a portable (no W/D hookup). I paid $100 for the mismatched pair, then $170 on parts, hoses, and the rack! A couple of questions:

1. Can I put the softener dispenser on instead of the cap to add this "feature" that I miss from my big washer?

2. What was the model number of the Whirlpool version of this washer? I usually buy my appliance parts from the local Whirlpool dealer where I got my big washer, and I would rather give them a Whirlpool model number than a Sears one.

3. This is the last US portable before the "World Washer," but I think that they still use this for the lower part of the Thin Twin. Can I use the parts list and diagrams for that? I can print Whirlpool's Thin Twin PDF, but Sears' online views of this model are old scans and look bad.

Click the link for a video of the washer running.


CLICK HERE TO GO TO davek's LINK





Post# 344083 , Reply# 1   4/22/2009 at 07:38 (5,454 days old) by norfolksouthern ()        

First, they made the direct drive portables up until around 1998 at least, from my best memory. As for the fabric softener, you could probably use one of the Downy balls. Otherwise, just get used to a little more interaction. This will help you bond with the little Kenmore, and it will actually start liking you. An actual dispenser on the agitator will probably make it too tall for the lid to completely close. Unfortunately, I don't have the Whirlpool model number, so I can't really help you there. But, I can try to look up some parts on a web site and maybe I can come up with something. No guarantees.

And another thing: NEVER EVER part with that little machine. It may be tempting when you find another place with a hookup, but just don't do it! You will find yourself very sorry you bought one of the shiny new full-sized HE top loaders, only to find that it won't perform up to the level of the portable you have now.

Also, I have one of those world washers that was made prior to 2007, and I aim to preserve it with new spare parts for just in case my belt drive needs service again, as it's one of the last decent models they made. Whirlpool imposed some revisions that severely limit the capability of their latest version. For one, it only has two water levels: Low, and High. Plus, there's no extra rinse, no drain/spin, nothing but the push button spartan basics and no dials!

Now enjoy that Kenmore, and be sure to take good care of it!

NorfolkSouthern


Post# 344086 , Reply# 2   4/22/2009 at 07:52 (5,454 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        

...But if you still don't want it, I can take a good care of it LOL

I love these whirlpool compacts. Here in Brazil we had only the Brastemp Minimatica in 1979 (I have one) and the Brastemp Baby World Washer, which is almost 50% smaller than the american World washer.

Unfortunately they don't have the front panel, which is charming.


I'll try to find and post some pictures of the Brazilian World Washer and Baby World Washer


Post# 344106 , Reply# 3   4/22/2009 at 09:17 (5,454 days old) by davek ()        

Portables are so expensive! I didn't know that they existed until recently, or I would've had one a couple of years ago when I first moved. Once I started looking into them, I had ruled out American brands as being far too expensive to buy new, even though all were made overseas (Whirlpool/Kenmore in Brazil, GE in Thailand). 110v dryers are awfully expensive for what they are, too. I was about ready to buy a (gulp) Haier washer for $300 and rack dry when I found this mismatched set online "as-is" for $100 for both pieces. Growing up, we had always had Kenmores, and the first washer I bought was a Whirlpool (in storage), so this is what I would've preferred anyway.

Someone had cut the hoses of the washer, but it still had the cap on the valve, so it must've been semi-installed before. They were priced as separate items, and I told them that I would buy the dryer only if it was 110v, and they also knocked sales tax off the whole deal. $100 out the door. I then drove 35 miles with the washer in my CAR, and the dryer in the trunk with the lid open (I have pictures to prove it). I'm not sorry that I took the dryer, too, as it's been impressive for its size.

I figured that the current Kenmore/Whirlpool portable was a Brastemp, but I've not seen a similar one on Brastemp's page. It's pretty big for a portable, and even has a stainless tub, so I thought it must be a newer design than the "world washer," which still looks like a Whirlpool to me. Looking at the Brastemp site, I think that the Eggo is cute, though. I'm surprised that they don't sell that globally at Victoria's Secret as it would be perfect for delicate and expensive women's lingerie. I was impressed that Brastemp's largest top-loader looks bigger than Whirlpool's and has a massive 11kg capacity.


Post# 344128 , Reply# 4   4/22/2009 at 11:22 (5,454 days old) by supremewhirlpol ()        

It may be possible to put the agitator of the Whirlpool version in your Kenmore and use the dispenser attachment. The agitator to a DD whirlpool portable may still be near my trash can, if it is I will save it for you.

Post# 344141 , Reply# 5   4/22/2009 at 12:16 (5,454 days old) by mistereric (New Jersey (Taylor Ham))        

mistereric's profile picture
I also have the mini-surgilator from a belt drive portable whirlpool, if anyone needs it.

Post# 344154 , Reply# 6   4/22/2009 at 13:34 (5,454 days old) by davek ()        
Thanks

Cool, Supremewhirlpol, I might like to give that a shot. I often start the wash and watch tv or go to bed, so I like the dispenser.

Would it still have the massive rollover with the WP agitator (see video link above)? I was surprised at how effective it was at turning stuff over. Even in that brief video clip, you can see a grey towel disappear and come back. That towel is not a mere mortal towel, but a thick "bath sheet."

For what it would've ended up costing, there's no way I would've been as happy with the Haier stuff as I have been with these. Add to that the confidence of finding parts when the repairs are necessary, and used wins over Chinese every time.


CLICK HERE TO GO TO davek's LINK


Post# 344234 , Reply# 7   4/22/2009 at 20:35 (5,453 days old) by supremewhirlpol ()        

Well Davek, I have good news and bad news. I do still have the agitator, replacement inner and outer tub, however there is not enough clearance inside of the agitator for the dispenser of a full size machine. I thought that it would work, I'm sorry for the false info. But I do still have the agitator, it has a filter inside and the top part of the agitator can be removed. My guess for removing the top part is for cleaning the filter and providing more space for bigger objects to fit into the machine. The agitator does not have the auger. Look at my thread in the Imperial section titled "Well I decided the clean out my shed" I have a picture of my machine in there, and what the agitator looks like. As far as rollover, I can't tell you which is better. I have had the Kenmore that you have only in almond, and I don't remember which machine has the better rollover. When I had the Kenmore, I liked it a lot, and the agitator was a constant reminder of a mini version of a Dual Action agitator. You have a very nice and cute machine. The mini Kenmore 70 series (as I used to call it).

Post# 344254 , Reply# 8   4/22/2009 at 21:57 (5,453 days old) by davek ()        

Yeah, it is like a little series 70 (my parents had one when I was in high school). I'm still a little miffed at how they treat the portable market-overpriced and plain machines, but at least it isn't like a little Galaxy instead. They sold those through at least 2001, and I always felt they made them look cheap on purpose to encourage the purchase of a slightly better machine. I don't think they had water temp or level selections at all! It's like how the increased volume of front-loaders hasn't brought the prices down, and top loaders still have dial controls even though electronic panels are probably cheaper to make. In a couple of years, you can bet the top loaders will be made cheaper looking. Ultimately, it will bring the average purchase price of a laundry pair way up.

As for the dispenser, I thought that the one like is on the next machine down from the portable would fit under the lid, but it's moot if it won't fit over the internal cap. That's the dispenser that my big Whirlpool has (same agitator, too). My parents' machine has the taller dispenser that I think is usually on Kenmores, which I'm sure would not clear under the lid. My portable's agitator does not have a filter in it, so I guess my washer is actually a little different from that one.

Anyway, if you're just throwing that machine out, I would like the cycle knob and control panel from it. The knob looks easier to read than mine and the almond panel would make it match my dryer a little better. If you think the timer is good, I probably ought to go ahead and buy that, too. Send me an email with your prices and I'll see what I can do.


Post# 344257 , Reply# 9   4/22/2009 at 22:12 (5,453 days old) by lebron (Minnesota)        

lebron's profile picture
Hey Dave, nice machine and nice video. I see you're new here, but you're already broken one of the most coveted rules. POST A PICTURE OF THE INSIDE OF THE MACHINE

Post# 344260 , Reply# 10   4/22/2009 at 22:41 (5,453 days old) by norfolksouthern ()        

I have had the Kenmore that you have only in almond, and I don't remember which machine has the better rollover.

I had both the Whirlpool standard, and Kenmore dual action version of this machine. The Kenmore dual action has MUCH better rollover than the Whirlpool.

it has a filter inside and the top part of the agitator can be removed. My guess for removing the top part is for cleaning the filter and providing more space for bigger objects to fit into the machine

You are correct about the lint filter. However, I don't recall it being designed for the top part to be removed for bigger items. In either case, either of them work very well for their intended purpose and have demonstrated outstanding durability. I think I'll try adding a couple more to my collection!

NorfolkSouthern


Post# 344269 , Reply# 11   4/23/2009 at 05:30 (5,453 days old) by davek ()        

Lebron, I posted a VIDEO of the inside of the machine. Anyway, here's the picture, officially by request. I ran it once mostly empty to make sure it worked before I spent the $65 for the hose, and this is the only still picture I have of the inside of it.

Post# 344270 , Reply# 12   4/23/2009 at 05:58 (5,453 days old) by jdinstl ()        
Yay! Another portable washer!

And I vote with NorfolkSouthern....do not, under any circumstances (unless it's to me) get rid of this machine! Here in the apartment, I have my World Washer and a cheesy 110v Sanyo dryer. (I also have 2 full sized units downstairs).

Currently, these two are doing most of my laundry. The spin on the washer is robust enough to that dry times in the cheesy Sanyo are quite reasonable. And we're talking blue jeans here! I'm surprised at the turnover these little guys do as well -- I tossed a white shop towel in with the jeans...it was rather funny to watch it work down close to the agitator, then come back up the side of the tub.

I'd suggest the Downy ball as well for the fabric softener.

Happy porta-washing!

John


Post# 344273 , Reply# 13   4/23/2009 at 06:43 (5,453 days old) by norfolksouthern ()        

supremewhirlpol: Didn't you mention that you have a Surgilator agitator for a belt-drive portable? If so, I will gladly take it off your hands as a spare. Let me know.

NorfolkSouthern


Post# 344278 , Reply# 14   4/23/2009 at 07:32 (5,453 days old) by supremewhirlpol ()        

The agitator is for a Direct Drive portable Whirlpool. I also have the plastic outer tub and speckled inner tub. Sorry for the confusion. I wish I had a Belt drive portable. I will post pictures of them.

Post# 344283 , Reply# 15   4/23/2009 at 08:14 (5,453 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        
Dave

Don't be impressed by the size of that Brastemp.
Here in Brazil there's a ridiculous standard that even the manufacturers hate it.

It's impossible to wash 11kg in a machine which drum is smaller than an average heavy duty whirlpool.

By the way, 11kg is the biggest top loader Brastemp has. Electrolux has a 15.2kg model (that is huge) and son will have a 16.9kg washer. (And I still don't understand why the hell the standards change, the manufacturers get mad to remake everything year after year and make an elephant fit inside a Fiat 500)


Post# 344284 , Reply# 16   4/23/2009 at 08:16 (5,453 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        

I'm not used to the Kenmore top loaders... do you have a pic of it?

If it's a machine which has a " glass smile" on the lid, it's a Consul, the "cheap" version of Whirlpool in Brazil.

By the way, brastemp sucks! Its expensive and not reliable. while Consul is much cheaper (sometimes up to 60%) and the products are much better.



Post# 344286 , Reply# 17   4/23/2009 at 08:29 (5,453 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        

I have an Eggo and I love it. (Well, i have some problems with it and Brastemp is ignoring me, but it still working.)


I still dream of having one of those american portables with the front panel.

The closest of it's design I reached was an argentinian Semi-automatic whirlpool.

It uses the same cabinet, but a solid plastic tub, does not has a spin, only a 15 minutes timer (looks like a kitchen timer) and a on off switch for the drain pump.

The fill had to be made manually, using a bucket, a hose or placing the machine under a faucet.


Post# 344290 , Reply# 18   4/23/2009 at 08:59 (5,453 days old) by davek ()        

Thomasortega, I'll try to get a picture of it the next time I'm at Sears. The one on their webpage is not sufficient to identify it. It's made in Brazil by Whirlpool, and they sell the same model. It has controls behind the lid and has a plastic lid. It does not have a glass top, but the handle to open the lid is sort of a "smile." All of the similar size Brastemp models have the controls down the right side. It is priced at $640 US usually, about 1,430 Reais.

As for the "Elephant in Fiat 500," obviously a washer that holds nearly 17kg of clothes would have to be huge. I thought 11 sounded good, but I seriously doubt 17. Washers here are sized by drum volume, not load weight. A large top load washer is 3.5 cubic feet (99 liters). Crammed full of jeans, that would probably be about 10kg. I rather like the Fiat 500, I wish it were sold here.

Picture: Old & new Fiat 500s. Taken at the Lane Motor Museum in Nashville.


Post# 344293 , Reply# 19   4/23/2009 at 09:09 (5,453 days old) by davek ()        

Here's a link to the Kenmore Brazil portable. Ignore the picture of the inside of it as that is a picture of a different model. It's on sale right now.

CLICK HERE TO GO TO davek's LINK


Post# 344316 , Reply# 20   4/23/2009 at 12:26 (5,453 days old) by vivalalavatrice ()        
La 500!!!

Oh quanti bei ricordi!!!!

My father had got one in red, and my uncle stil has got one stored in a second house, just to be used in holiday with the roof (here's called "capotta") opend going to seaside in summer!!!

I remember really several adventures to tell about with that machine... once stil got fired!! The motor was a 2 cilynder (2 phase) air-cooled!!
I would have liked to ride one but now they're rare indeed. Then is not so easy due to the "doppietta" you have to do with both pedal and gears lever because is not automatic!!!

That old one is not exaclty the first one, which had the lid handle on behind side ( was called "aprtura controvento"), and there was a rather ugly model (I remember 1991-1992) between those over there.

THANKS!
Diomede

PS: listen to what is happening between Hobama and Marchionne maybe in future you could found over there in USA machine FIAT just like 500 either!



Post# 344320 , Reply# 21   4/23/2009 at 12:37 (5,453 days old) by davek ()        
Fiat 500

Vivalalavatrice: if Chrysler has to semi-merge with Fiat as is apparently required, I think we might see the new 500 here. It sure is cute.

Post# 344341 , Reply# 22   4/23/2009 at 14:45 (5,453 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        

I love the 500, unfortunately we don't have it here in Brazil


The machine mentioned above is a Consul, Unfortunately this model isn't available here in Brazi lanymore.

Theoretically, it was supposed to have less options and less quality than the Brastemp, as Consul is the "cheap Whirlpool", but happened exactly the opposite. This machine is much better than the Brastemps (it has the same mechanics as the other Brastemp, all based on the big World washer)

A few years ago, (When the world washer was being sold) a Brazilian manufacturer "Enxuta" almost killed the brand Brastemp, because all the Brastemps were big machines, while they offered a very small front loader (looks like an european compact Bendix). As many people here in brazil used to live in small apartments, a big washing machine wasn't the best solution.

Whirlpool immediatelly decided, in an emergency plan, to launch the "Baby Mondial", which is a ultra compact top loader
NOTHING WAS MADE LIKE THIS BEFORE. That machine was really small, but with the same design and cycles of the standard World Washer, but without the water level selector.

Who has the "Baby Mondial" won't sell it even if you offer a million dollars. They are really great machines and probably one of the best made by Whirlpool corporation.

After the "mondial" family (World washer with a top back panel, I'll post the pictures when I find), Whirlpool launched the "Clean" family. It just changed the cosmetic design. the mechanics was the same "Mondial". It still a good machine, but not as good as the mondial.

Finally, they decided to launch the electronic family. They are the worst machines available today in brazil. They are dumb, they destroy the clothes and don't clean.

When Electrolux arrived here in Brazil (1997), Whirlpool decided to "enhance" their design. brastemps are thousands of times more beautiful than the Electrolux, but they forgot to enhance the dependability, efficiency and all the other positive points. A few years ago, Brastemps looked like space ships while the electroluxes looked like a square box that you put the clothes inside to be washed.

Now Brastemp decided to change their agitator, from a dual action (with sharp edges) to a 8 vanes (they call it multifunctional) agitator. We call them "Multiprocessor", because the vanes can cut, slice, grind, shred, etc...

probably someday Whirlpool will ask Victorinox or Sabatier to make their new agitators for a new model that could be called in-laundy-erator


Post# 344345 , Reply# 23   4/23/2009 at 15:00 (5,453 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        
Brastemp Baby Mondial (The Brazilian Mini World Washer)

By the picture is a little difficult to realize how small is this model.

Two versions, white and Almond. There was a third option, dark grey, which is my favorite.


Post# 344346 , Reply# 24   4/23/2009 at 15:02 (5,453 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        
Drum

Drum and agitator

Post# 344348 , Reply# 25   4/23/2009 at 15:07 (5,453 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        
Brastemp clean

This family (many models, including a very rare digital model with LCD)

Post# 344349 , Reply# 26   4/23/2009 at 15:09 (5,453 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        
Electronic Brastemp

This model came after the "clean"

the worst Brastemp.


Post# 344350 , Reply# 27   4/23/2009 at 15:12 (5,453 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        
Brastemp "V-Design"

much better than the previous version, but still not good.

nice design, looks like a space ship... inside, the old world washer with "enhanced dumbness".


Post# 344352 , Reply# 28   4/23/2009 at 15:18 (5,453 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        
Brastemp "Ative"

This machine was launched a few months ago and still on the market.

Inside, again the world washer, without any differences, except for the "multiprocessor agitator"

Outside, the wierd design. the lid looks like a toilet seat.

A can of soda can be much more resistant than it's cabinet.


Post# 344354 , Reply# 29   4/23/2009 at 15:26 (5,453 days old) by davek ()        
Brastemp

I can see why the grey Baby Mondial is your favorite. The brown one is ugly! If it has the same mechanicals as the big ones, it would be tougher than nails to break since none of it would be under strain. That little tub is obviously shallow.

I know what you could mean about Brastemp looking good but being bad. They look amazing. I love the glass tops. It's too bad though. I prefer Whirlpool's stuff to any other brand in general, but it sounds like they're dropping the ball down there in Brazil.

I still think this is a cool looking machine.


CLICK HERE TO GO TO davek's LINK


Post# 344368 , Reply# 30   4/23/2009 at 17:01 (5,453 days old) by brastemp (Brazil)        

The "multiprocessor agitator" is designed by North America Whirlpool!! The are really similar to agitators used at the basic models on whirlpool.

I have something to say:

Brastemp (Whirlpool) it is the one that more seel in Brazil. They have the best service, and the biggest Market Share.

Thomas don't like Brastemp because seels 2 time more than electrolux (his favorite brand).
That's just Thomas opinion, not a reality here!


Post# 344369 , Reply# 31   4/23/2009 at 17:07 (5,453 days old) by brastemp (Brazil)        

Davek, this is my favorite model. Extremely efficiente washer.. Take a perfect clean fabrics and at moment is the favorite Brazilian Washer..
The appliances store always need to wait for more pieces like that cause this washer seels a lot!


Post# 344396 , Reply# 32   4/23/2009 at 20:06 (5,452 days old) by norfolksouthern ()        

The Brastemps I see on this thread have more options and settings than the new American Whirlpool or Kenmore portables I've seen lately. My newer portable was made in 2002 with dials and electronic controls, but no mechanical timer. It has the Brastemp agitator, but with a fabric softener dispensor. It will do two blankets with no problem, while my belt-drive Whirlpool made in 1978 can't because of its smaller capacity.

My belt drive Whirlpool and davec's Kenmore are both older models, long discontinued. The difference is that davec's is a direct drive, with a dual action agitator. Mine has a miniature version of the full-sized super surgilator agitator found on Whirlpool's older machines that were made back in the 1970s. Both of these are fairly difficult to find, especially the ones with belt drive.

NorfolkSouthern


Post# 344498 , Reply# 33   4/24/2009 at 09:05 (5,452 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        

Drovetto is partially correct.

Whirlpool has a higher market share here in Brazil, because it's divided in two. Brastemp and Consul.

Consul has excellent products (and some ridiculous very cheap models), and it's one of the favorites for the "middle class".

Brastemp still sells a lot, because of it's fame. Many people still have the "Brastemp Luxo", which is nothing more than a Lady Kenmore, and most of that machines still running after 2, 30 or even 40 years.

Electrolux arrived in Brazil only in 1997. Most people still afraid of the "new" brand, and there still some people that don't know Electrolux bought Prosdocimo and absorved all it's tradition, plus the more than 100 years of experience in europe (considering Wascator)

Somebody has to be nuts to say the Brastemps available today are better than the old Brastemps. It's not a question of "my" preference.

People who buy Brastemp today, are looking for status (It's the most expensive brand and also the most beautiful design)
Who buy a "new" Brastemp and buy the second "new" Brastemp is crazy, dumb, rich enough to don't care about the money spent in a machine that won't last or never cares about the machine or the destroyed clothes.

Here in brazil happens exactly the same as in the US with the "shredmores".

The best washer I had (still have it stored in my sister's house) was a Brastemp and I bought it in 1980. The only problem it had was a broken belt.



Post# 344504 , Reply# 34   4/24/2009 at 09:43 (5,452 days old) by brastemp (Brazil)        
Most famous 80's Washer!






Post# 344505 , Reply# 35   4/24/2009 at 09:44 (5,452 days old) by brastemp (Brazil)        
Most famous 90's Washer!

.

CLICK HERE TO GO TO brastemp's LINK


Post# 344506 , Reply# 36   4/24/2009 at 09:46 (5,452 days old) by brastemp (Brazil)        
Brastemp with Dual Action Agitator.

.

CLICK HERE TO GO TO brastemp's LINK


Post# 344507 , Reply# 37   4/24/2009 at 09:59 (5,452 days old) by davek ()        
Brastemp

We might need a new subject for this. Having watched some of the videos on YouTube, it appears that the higher Brastemp models just a few years ago were the same as big American Whirlpools. They have the same tubs and agitators, and sound the same as the direct drive models, see video link below. That machine is obviously identical to Kenmore/Whirlpool large basic models from the late 90s.

I can see what Thomas is saying here: today's models of theirs, no matter how expensive, are apparently different versions of the World Washer. That's belt-drive, and certainly wasn't designed to wash a huge load. People here dog Shredmores, but I would guess that eliminating the belt made a huge difference in customer satisfaction with the machine. A washer might be tough for years of use, but it will sometimes need a belt. Kids grow out of clothes before most get worn out anyway, so being easy on the clothes wasn't something many family buyers would've even noticed about the Shredmore. They may have been tough on the clothes, but they were tough all around and last a long time. They often ran for years with little or no repair. My parents had at least two that were replaced over their first problem, in one case it was rust perforation of the outer tub! Family of 5 wears them out. Stretching the World Washer mechanism beyond its original design and adding more complicated electronics doesn't make for a dependable machine. Unless all of their models are "portables" at least nominally, (doubtful) they would be better served by styling the direct drive mechanism and putting a glass lid on it. The "Baby Mondial" is mentioned before as being really tough...it's overbuilt for its tiny tub. The "15kg" machine of today, apparently sharing at least part of its mech with the Baby, is overworked.

I'm slowly working on a degree in ME, so I know how something at 85% of its rated capacity can last forever and wear quickly at 105%. Perhaps Brastemp has that sort of problem with machine dependability right now.


CLICK HERE TO GO TO davek's LINK


Post# 344513 , Reply# 38   4/24/2009 at 10:49 (5,452 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        

Not only Brastemp, but all the Brazilian manufacturers have problems with dependability.

If we see only by the capacity point of view, the manufacturers has absolutely no fault over it.

Here in Brazil the machines are designed and the prototypes are sent to the INMETRO, which is the government regulation agency that cares about all the standards. The standards follow the ABNT (National Agency of Technical Standards).

Unfortunately ABNT created a wierd way to designate the washer's capacity.

For example a Lady Kenmore, which is a machine that both Brazil and US have exactly the same model. In the 50's, 60's 70's and 80's it was a 4kg capacity washing machine. 4 kg is perfectly acceptable, no matter if you wash jeans or cotton T-shirts, right?

Well, by the new standards, exactly the same machine, today, would have a 8kg capacity and we can find a huge observation on the owner's manual saying 8kg* is based on the ABNT standards, considering a load consisted by 100% cotton towels, shirts and pillowcases, simulated by 50x50cm squares and 50x10cm stripes.

Some consumers are so stupid (of course they don't read the manual) that they think: "Well, I have a 10kg capacity machine, my king size duvets that look like a parachute weight only 2 kg each, so I can toss 5 king size duvets inside the machine and it must wash, rinse and spin perfectly and last forever."


Post# 344515 , Reply# 39   4/24/2009 at 10:54 (5,452 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        

By the way, this new 11kg Brastemp Ative has exactly the same tub as the 5kg Brastemp Mondial.


The machine that has the capacity rating most close to the real capacity is only the Electrolux 15.2Kg Acquajet, recently launched. It's real capacity is up to 14.8kg (400g mistake)


Post# 344518 , Reply# 40   4/24/2009 at 10:59 (5,452 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        

Whirlpool Cabrio, if launched in Brazil would be a 21kg capacity washer...
that's more than ridiculous, but there's nothing we can do.


My recommendations to everyone is use the brain and ignore the capacity rating when loading the machine. If there's no rollover, you can hear the motor being forced or the agitator bending, MAYBE, the machine is overloaded LOL.


Post# 344528 , Reply# 41   4/24/2009 at 12:21 (5,452 days old) by davek ()        

21kg?! I believe that I agree with you about their standard being bad. Good luck cramming 21kg of stuff in the tub.

Post# 344529 , Reply# 42   4/24/2009 at 12:24 (5,452 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        

LOL
maybe we'll have to sit on the lid to keep it closed.


Post# 344534 , Reply# 43   4/24/2009 at 14:06 (5,452 days old) by brastemp (Brazil)        

"By the way, this new 11kg Brastemp Ative has exactly the same tub as the 5kg Brastemp Mondial."

Thomas, you get a mistake again.

Brastemp clean was a 22" cabinet - Cabrio have 24" whit tall tub inside and different agitator!


Post# 344535 , Reply# 44   4/24/2009 at 14:07 (5,452 days old) by brastemp (Brazil)        

Not Cabrio - Ative.

Post# 344766 , Reply# 45   4/25/2009 at 19:44 (5,450 days old) by davek ()        

Here's a picture of the Consul-built Kenmore portable sold today. It probably holds more than my Kenmore does, and it's both taller and weighs less.

Post# 344767 , Reply# 46   4/25/2009 at 19:46 (5,450 days old) by davek ()        

And the obligatory money shot.

Post# 345030 , Reply# 47   4/27/2009 at 07:40 (5,449 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        

It'1s the Brazilian Consul!!!!

This machine was great! (Not as Brastemp Mondial).

The difference I can see is th not transparent lid.

The Brazilian version had an acrylic instead of that grey "smile" on the lid.

Unfortunately this model isn't available anymore here in Brazil.


I saw these machine sin argentina too, sold as "Eslabon de Lujo", other Whirlpool local brand. There it has hot/cold fill, while in Brazil there's only the cold fill and any option for hot wash.


Post# 345063 , Reply# 48   4/27/2009 at 10:36 (5,449 days old) by davek ()        
Eslabon del Lujo

I looked at their site. Most of their models now are Brastemp V-design as you show above. EdL shows origin of the machine on their site, most top loaders are from Brazil, and the front loaders are made in Argentina. There was one top loader from Czech Republic.

No big Whirlpools to be had anymore down there?


Post# 345077 , Reply# 49   4/27/2009 at 11:20 (5,449 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        

Here in Brazil we had a big Whirlpool "Brastemp Super Capacidade" a few years ago. nothing more than an average American Whirlpool top loader.
It wasn't a success because of it's design (totally square, without glass lid) and very expensive because it was imported.

A few years ago the "Duet" was launched here in Brazil. not the same American Duet, but the Maytag one.

Now the Brastemp TOL is the "Duet Black". It seems to be a good machine (Maytag Epicz) but the price is more than ridiculous. It costs R$ 7000,00 (aprox. USD 3050), while it's competitor, the Electrolux Ecoturbo (Frigidaire Affinity) is sold for less than R$ 3000 (USD1300)

In a few months we'll have here in Brazil the American Electrolux front loaders (this machine was 100% developed here in Brazil for the american market)
The Brazilian version will have the LCD, but will be white.

Electrolux also plan to launch a Brazilian top loader in the U.S. the top 15. it fills with proper water lever, but can be considered HE because it has a function that increases the spin rinse and eliminate the deep rinse. Here in brazil it's an option (you have to select this option every time you want to use it), but in the US it will be inverted. (You have to select every time you DON'T want to do it.)
The american version will not have the 2nd rinse button, but will have the mini basket.

Also, the maximum water level won't the same as the Brazillian version.

The price will be OUTRAGEOUS!


Post# 345107 , Reply# 50   4/27/2009 at 14:05 (5,449 days old) by davek ()        
Frigidaire/Electrolux top 15

When I see it, I'll let you know about the price.

Post# 345136 , Reply# 51   4/27/2009 at 18:02 (5,448 days old) by jdinstl ()        
Dave,

Did you ever get the agitator/fabric softener situation resolved?

I just bought, this past Saturday, the new Kenmore portable you posted above, to replace my leaking purgatory-to-repair World Washer.

I am wondering if the agitator from my now bits 'n pieces World Washer would work for you? It's a straight-vane agitator with the fabric softener dispenser on top. It's 18.5 inches top to bottom with fabric softener dispenser attached, flairing to 13 inches at the bottom. The set screw is about 3.5-4 inches from the bottom.

If it will work, you can have it.

John


Post# 345159 , Reply# 52   4/27/2009 at 19:00 (5,448 days old) by davek ()        
Cool

Mine uses a two piece agitator, so I doubt the whole thing would work, but if you would, pop the dispenser out of the agitator. Does it have a filter attached? If so, then it wouldn't fit anyway. If not, I would like to try the dispenser only. The dispenser top of the world washer usually has cross-bars over the fill hole and resembles the low-profile dispenser on my big WP. If it's that dispenser, I'd like to give it a try. Just email me your findings-address in profile.

Out of curiosity, was the new washer still on sale sunday? It was $511 last week and is usually $640. Did you get at least that good a deal? It's a stylish little washer. Before I bought my used set, I was looking at Haier. Did you consider them?


Post# 345163 , Reply# 53   4/27/2009 at 19:23 (5,448 days old) by jdinstl ()        
Alas...

...the lint filter and stem are firmly attached to the dispenser. Drat!

What you saw was the base deal. They knocked off a bit from that and added free delivery.

I did check out Haier...but I must admit, what sold me on the Kenmore was seeing that straight-vane agitator. I knew it did a good job in the World Washer. My next question was about spin speed, and of course the sales guy didn't know. So I took a chance and got it. Spins seem long and fast, and things come out just like out of the WW, saving load on the dryer.

John


Post# 345166 , Reply# 54   4/27/2009 at 19:32 (5,448 days old) by jdinstl ()        
By the way...

...I hope a redundant pic is ok...as I posted this on my World Washer Uh Oh thread...but like Dave says, the inside of the new Kenmore/Consul/Whirlpool, whatever is not correct on the Sears page.

Here's the inside of mine. And no, the basket was not crushed like a beer can then straightened out. Flash and reflection from my camera, I think.

Bleach dispenser lower left, fabric softener dispenser topping the agitator, lint filter underneath, and detergent drawer open. I kinda like the detergent drawer :-) Not exactly Norge Dispenso-mat, but fun nevertheless...

John


Post# 345167 , Reply# 55   4/27/2009 at 19:34 (5,448 days old) by jdinstl ()        
Argh...I should have scrolled back a bit..

Dave already posted a money shot. My apologies, folks.

John


Post# 345194 , Reply# 56   4/27/2009 at 21:29 (5,448 days old) by davek ()        

Glad you got a good deal. $637 is too much, but >500 puts it within spitting distance of the Haier Target sells for $300 by the time you figure about $100 for shipping.

Post# 345203 , Reply# 57   4/27/2009 at 22:43 (5,448 days old) by jdinstl ()        
Well..

...I really didn't want to shell out that kind of money. But a certain set of neighbors in this building have abused my (and everyone elses) laundry equipment downstairs. And where I live, the laundromats contain some of the skankiest people known to mankind. The little World Washer sold me on having a portable in the apartment.

Another WW did come up on Craigslist -- for $300. I figured I'd just bite the bullet and go a bit more for new, even though it didn't have the versatility of the WW.

I would guestimate this one one is about 6" taller than the WW. And 2.1ft is more than double the Haier's .91 capacity. Spin is important to me as well because of the chinsy dryer.

Which leads to another dilemna...

Now I need to paint the chinsy dryer. It's bad enough to be a mismatched set, but bright white washer near dingy white dryer. If it were Frigidaire, it'd be a total Filter-Flo Fashion Faux Pas! Especially being here on AW, where people have Westinghouse Laundromats in such top condition, you'd expect Betty Furness to tap you on the shoulder.

BTW, saw your YouTube video. I may need to rethink my position on safety latches...the rollover on your machine could be deadly! I wish I could have got a deal like you did, but ued stackables/portables are rare as hens teeth here. And the ones that do come in, I am told are suitable only for a landfill.

John


Post# 345246 , Reply# 58   4/28/2009 at 08:48 (5,448 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        

Somebody please tell me how can I bring one of these old Kenmores to Brazil!!!!!

Post# 345258 , Reply# 59   4/28/2009 at 10:51 (5,448 days old) by davek ()        
Kenmore to Brazil

If you're really determined, get in a pickup truck, drive to the closest place in Texas, buy the machine, then drive back. These guys went from Tierra del Fuego to Prudhoe Bay Alaska in 56 days.

Joking aside, it could be done. However, you could probably buy a warehouse full of World Washers that are already there for what it would cost. UPS will send anything from anywhere to anywhere.


CLICK HERE TO GO TO davek's LINK


Post# 345260 , Reply# 60   4/28/2009 at 11:09 (5,448 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula)        

I have a forwarder that can bring thing from Miami (I work for a trade company in Paraguay, remember?)

The question is... Where and how can i find many machines I want, buy them and send to my forwarder's warehouse without going to the U.S.


Post# 345269 , Reply# 61   4/28/2009 at 11:38 (5,448 days old) by davek ()        

Miami's a huge city. If you have an agent working in Miami, checking Craigslist and classified ads, there should be no trouble getting a few items collected and brought to his warehouse. I would guess that most anything you could want from the US should be available in Miami. I live in a town of 30,000 and there are several shops that sell used and refurbished appliances here. I bet Miami has tons of small appliance shops, both used and new.

Portables are a little hard to come by, but working Shredmore sets can be had here for less than $200 sometimes.


Post# 345977 , Reply# 62   5/1/2009 at 21:20 (5,444 days old) by mark_wpduet (Lexington KY)        
To the original poster

mark_wpduet's profile picture
You know. In May 1991 I was 19 and moved into an apartment that did not have a washer dryer. My grandma ordered a kenmore portable washer that rolled up and hooked to the sink for me. I sold it about three years later in the paper. It looked just like that one and it was the same year. I was living in NC at the time.

Post# 345978 , Reply# 63   5/1/2009 at 21:26 (5,444 days old) by mark_wpduet (Lexington KY)        
Oh I forgot

mark_wpduet's profile picture
I think it was 450 ish dollars when I bought it new.

Post# 346017 , Reply# 64   5/2/2009 at 05:10 (5,444 days old) by davek ()        

Grandmas are great!

Post# 350842 , Reply# 65   5/22/2009 at 19:19 (5,423 days old) by davek ()        
You said it couldn't be done...

But you were mistaken. I tracked down the part number for the softener dispenser and bought one. It's the same one included with the larger stacked pair, and the lady at the store even let me test that one on the Thin Twin at the store to verify its fit.

I did two loads this afternoon and it worked perfectly.


Post# 350851 , Reply# 66   5/22/2009 at 20:18 (5,423 days old) by pulsator (Saint Joseph, MI)        

pulsator's profile picture
I've often wondered if this dispenser would work!!! Very cool!!

Post# 350858 , Reply# 67   5/22/2009 at 20:51 (5,423 days old) by yogitunes (New Jersey)        
Norfolksouthern

yogitunes's profile picture
Did you say you needed a sugilator for a portable belt drive...

I may have one in the garage...I'll check...let me know


Post# 350878 , Reply# 68   5/22/2009 at 22:38 (5,423 days old) by norfolksouthern ()        

An extra Surgilator for my belt-drive portable would certainly be nice, yes. I may never need it, but you never know!

NorfolkSouthern


Post# 350964 , Reply# 69   5/23/2009 at 08:47 (5,423 days old) by yogitunes (New Jersey)        

yogitunes's profile picture
if i have one i'll email you...asap

martin/yogi



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