Thread Number: 23623
Can somebody help me get my wringer washer going? please? 		[Down to Last]

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Post# 367839   7/28/2009 at 12:54 (5,385 days old) by mayart ()        

Hi everyone!

I have been enjoying reading here for several months and just recently became a member.

I just got an old wringer washer off of Craig's list after wanting one for a long time. I am on a quest to get clean clothes once again after years of working like a dog to figure out why mine aren't getting clean could get them clean back in the 90s and the late 80s).

So far, I've gotten a new Speed Queen top loader, a whole house water softening system & filter, I'm not using any of the new detergents with "optical brighteners", I'm using Charlie's Soap & no fabric softener which is slowly getting years of mineral buildup off the clothes. Plus I am soaking the whites in Iron Out for a few days at a time in a bucket outside. These are just SOME of the things that I am doing.

I decided to get a wringer because I am tired of having to stand alongside or nearby my top loader washer to keep turning the dial to keep it agitating, plus I don't think that it agitates as good as my old Sears Kenmore (bought in 1988) which broke and was replaced by a very expensive, ineffective Whirlpool Duet back in 2004.

I have been trying to gleam knowledge on how to work with my wringer from googling and this forum. I've cleaned the outside and am now working on the inside - took the agitator and screen off. The machine was plugged in and worked at the place when I bought it. It had been stored in a shed and the people needed to make room in the shed so they were selling it. The lady I bought it from didn't have much info on the washer because it had belonged to a friend who moved out of state and the friend told her to "just sell it".

I don't know if the rollers work, the underside is a little rusty, and I need to put a bolt in the area that the "safety" bulb hose was located.

It leaked oil on the way home because for some reason, I thought that the agitator knob was supposed to be UP and not down.... :/
And I can't figure out some other things about it:

it looks exactly like the one in these pictures:

www.automaticwasher.org/TD/ARCHIV...

same colors, hoses, modern lettering on clear plastic on the front, has a gooseneck to put over the sink to drain - but doesn't have a "P" in the model number, it also has a 3 prong Maytag plug & electric cord. The model number is: N2LS and the serial number is: 6638305(5 may be an S?).

Can anyone give me any tips to get going with my wringer so I can get these mountains of laundry down to a more manageable size? Is there any kind of pictorial online so I can clean things out, replace oil/grease, and any other restoration that would be needed? Any help would be appreciated!!




Post# 367849 , Reply# 1   7/28/2009 at 14:00 (5,385 days old) by revvinkevin (Tinseltown - Shakey Town - La-La Land)        

revvinkevin's profile picture

Hello! Before I checked your link I was going to ask "what brand of wringer is it?" But I see it's a Maytag! Nice!

The resident Maytag wringer expert is Geoff Delp, in Minnesota. I'm sure he can give you what ever advice you need. I'll send him an e-mail.

Good luck with it!
Kevin

Post# 367901 , Reply# 2   7/28/2009 at 17:23 (5,384 days old) by geoffdelp (SAUK RAPIDS)        

Hi Terri ... I received your email; I have been rather busy lately.

Your Maytag should do the trick ... however ... I wonder about the soap you are using. You know, soap, over time, will have a dulling/graying effect on clothing if not rinsed thoroughly. Our resident expert, Launderess, should have more details for you. I do know that water must be softened well when using soap and that mechanical rinsing (in a machine) would be more preferable than hand rinsing in tubs; it will remove more of the soap residue which is what causes the dulling effect.

I also wonder about the Iron Out you are soaking your clothes in. Is that causing damage to your fabric at all? It seems that it might, because it is so powerful.

To start using your Maytag, fill the tub to the top of the vanes on the agitator ... see the following picture:

Post# 367902 , Reply# 3   7/28/2009 at 17:25 (5,384 days old) by geoffdelp (SAUK RAPIDS)        

Then ... plug her in and start the agitator by pulling on the blue button on the front of the machine ...

Post# 367903 , Reply# 4   7/28/2009 at 17:25 (5,384 days old) by geoffdelp (SAUK RAPIDS)        

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Post# 367904 , Reply# 5   7/28/2009 at 17:26 (5,384 days old) by geoffdelp (SAUK RAPIDS)        

Don't forget to add your detergent/soap!! :-)

Post# 367905 , Reply# 6   7/28/2009 at 17:27 (5,384 days old) by geoffdelp (SAUK RAPIDS)        

Add clothing only as long as there is free circulation. From the manual ... "when properly loaded, clothing should tumble to the center". Don't overload!!!!!

Post# 367906 , Reply# 7   7/28/2009 at 17:31 (5,384 days old) by geoffdelp (SAUK RAPIDS)        

When washing is through, push button in with your knee or your hand, turn on the wringer and start running clothes through. If you have never done that before ... well ... I could go on and on about how to do that!! Have you ever used a wringer before? See where the wringer control is pointing? You move it forward to get the rolls moving away from you; move it towards you for the rolls to move back to you and all the way to the left for the "swing" position to move the wringer head.

Post# 367907 , Reply# 8   7/28/2009 at 17:32 (5,384 days old) by geoffdelp (SAUK RAPIDS)        

Rinse in at least 2 tubs of water ... rinsing in the washer is even better yet!! :-)

Post# 367909 , Reply# 9   7/28/2009 at 17:34 (5,384 days old) by geoffdelp (SAUK RAPIDS)        

It sounds as if you have a pump on your machine. When you are done washing, hang the gooseneck over the edge of the sink and turn the pump to the "ON" position (machine needs to be plugged in for this, of course). When complete, don't forget to move pump to "OFF" position (messy if not the next time you wash ... I've done it; not fun!!) and lower the hose into a pan or on the floor so you can remove the agitator and rinse out the tub. HAVE TONS OF FUN!! I just love these machines!! Geoff

Post# 367910 , Reply# 10   7/28/2009 at 17:36 (5,384 days old) by geoffdelp (SAUK RAPIDS)        

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Post# 367911 , Reply# 11   7/28/2009 at 17:36 (5,384 days old) by geoffdelp (SAUK RAPIDS)        

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Post# 367912 , Reply# 12   7/28/2009 at 17:37 (5,384 days old) by geoffdelp (SAUK RAPIDS)        

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Post# 367913 , Reply# 13   7/28/2009 at 17:38 (5,384 days old) by geoffdelp (SAUK RAPIDS)        

"Big washings go fast in a Maytag ..." :-)

Post# 367914 , Reply# 14   7/28/2009 at 17:39 (5,384 days old) by geoffdelp (SAUK RAPIDS)        

There's a lot of power in these machines, that's for sure.

Post# 367926 , Reply# 15   7/28/2009 at 19:15 (5,384 days old) by redcarpetdrew (Fairfield, CA)        
Welcome, Terri!!!

 redcarpetdrew's profile picture
You'll like it here. I, not too long ago joined the 'conventional washer' club when I got my 1957 E2LP. It would be great if you could post a pic or two or operational video when you get the chance. The great advice from Geoff and the others helped me understand and get the best performance out of mine. It actually sat in a barn for a decade or two before I rescued her and it worked first time! It's also neat how many NOS parts are still available for them.

It's also a treat when Geoff shares pictures of his wringer 'harem'. How many is it now, Geoff? ;)

Here's a E2LP in operation and there is a separate vid of it wringing as well...

Again, WELCOME!

RCD

CLICK HERE TO GO TO redcarpetdrew's LINK
Post# 367963 , Reply# 16   7/28/2009 at 21:10 (5,384 days old) by polkanut (Wausau, WI )        
P.S.

 polkanut's profile picture
Don't forget to release the pressure on the wringers when you're done, and lock them apart. This helps to avoid flat spots on the rollers.

Post# 368029 , Reply# 17   7/29/2009 at 03:51 (5,384 days old) by whitekingd ()        
My first washer was a Maytag E2LP

 I LOVED that machine. It was well worn out when I got it. It leaked around the tub seal, and I used plumber's putty several times to make it stop. It was well used! But I used it for 2 years before getting another machine. A slight leak of oil down the back leg is actually somewhat normal for these machines, so I was told. It's a workhorse, so use it and love it. Also, try using Mrs. Stewart's Bluing in the rinse water. Calgon water softener might also help with your problems. Enjoy!!!!!!!!!!!

Post# 368032 , Reply# 18   7/29/2009 at 05:54 (5,384 days old) by mayart ()        

Thanks, Kevin, Geoff, Drew, and Polkanut!

Geoff, should I even try to start it up before replacing the grease? It did leak a good amount on the trip here.

More later, I just got done cutting up and freezing a dozen or so bags of fresh strawberries from the farmers auction and it's 4 am.

Talk to you all later! :}

Post# 368042 , Reply# 19   7/29/2009 at 07:05 (5,384 days old) by polkanut (Wausau, WI )        

polkanut's profile picture
Another product that will help soften your wash water is 20 Mule Team Borax. It also acts as a deodorizer.

Post# 368051 , Reply# 20   7/29/2009 at 08:31 (5,384 days old) by geoffdelp (SAUK RAPIDS)        

Terri ... Sure; why not??!! :-) How much lubrication did you lose? 1/2 of a cup? In order to add more lubrication, you would have to disassemble the entire machine and tear apart the transmission, remove the right angle drive from the wringer post ... doesn't sound like much fun, does it?

It really isn't as bad as it sounds and if you want to keep the machine for a long time, a rebuild might not be a bad thing.

BUT ... for now ... how about just using it and see what it does?? You won't know until you try. :-)

RCD ... working? A total of seven (7). Not working/disassembled? Two (2). That's not so many, is it???

Here's my 1963 Model N2LP that I use infrequently. I also got this one brand new, so I am protecting the bakelite agitator from the harsh laundry chemicals. The poly agitators in the later models can handle just about everything.

Post# 368053 , Reply# 21   7/29/2009 at 08:32 (5,384 days old) by geoffdelp (SAUK RAPIDS)        

Here's a shot of the harem that RCD loves ... :-)

Post# 368061 , Reply# 22   7/29/2009 at 09:28 (5,384 days old) by polkanut (Wausau, WI )        

polkanut's profile picture
Here are the instructions for locking apart the rollers between washings:

1. Release tension by pressing the red or turquoise release bar on either side.

2. Place hand under upper roll, raise the cap approximately one inch-and

3. Turn reset handle (on top of wringer) one quarter turn clockwise.

To place tension on the rollers again:

1. Press release bar-and

2. Simultaneously turn reset handle one quarter turn counter-clockwise.

3. When cap drops in place, turn reset handle one quarter turn clockwise to again place tension on the rollers.

Should the wringer become locked in the "up" position during operation, follow the last 3 steps above.

I hope this helps. These directions are taken directly from the instruction booklet for a 1956 Maytag E2L.



Post# 368077 , Reply# 23   7/29/2009 at 10:43 (5,384 days old) by westingman123 ()        
Harem

 Those are beautiful machines! Did you restore them, or just preserve them? I have 3 that I rescued and 1 that was my grandma's; I'd love to make it like new as yours look. As soon as I learn how to post some pics I'll get with the program!

Post# 368082 , Reply# 24   7/29/2009 at 10:58 (5,384 days old) by revvinkevin (Tinseltown - Shakey Town - La-La Land)        

revvinkevin's profile picture

Yes Geoff, that IS a GREAT photo! How about a shot of the red ones too??

Is there any functional or capacity difference to the square vs. round tubs, or is it simply a matter of styling?

Post# 368112 , Reply# 25   7/29/2009 at 13:20 (5,384 days old) by polkanut (Wausau, WI )        

polkanut's profile picture
According to the instruction booklet I have in front of me, the Model N (round tub) holds 15 gallons, and the Models E & J hold 18 gallons. Other than water capacity, there is no difference in the cleaning ability of any of them IMO.

Post# 368115 , Reply# 26   7/29/2009 at 13:36 (5,384 days old) by geoffdelp (SAUK RAPIDS)        

Kevin ... Tim is right; there really is no difference in cleaning ability between the machines ... it's all on how the operator uses the machine(s).

The big difference is the capacity. The round model N holds less clothing (not much) than the J and E. The J and E have no real difference, except for the tub.

Fun to note ... Maytag used the same transmission, agitator, wringer head (not where the rollers are, but where the lever is), motor, hoses (cut shorter for the N) in all of their machines. They used the same tub bolts, etc. in all of their machines. I guess being able to use the same parts in all 3 machines made production a lot easier.

Oh ... the red models ... those are still a "work in process" and will have their own unveiling later. :-)

William ... I was very lucky and in the picture above, the square aluminum tub Model E and the round tub Model N were brand new when I bought them. The E came from the state of Washington and the N came from a dealer's showrooom in Virginia (if my memory serves me). The model J is a complete restore that I did; that was my cousin's mother-in-law's machine and after she passed away, I was able to snap it up!!

Thanks for asking and enjoy!!

:-)

Post# 368138 , Reply# 27   7/29/2009 at 15:28 (5,384 days old) by redcarpetdrew (Fairfield, CA)        

redcarpetdrew's profile picture
Yes, I do love the 'harem' picture. I'm looking forward to the red models. Geoff, was there a model with a clear tub? It seem to me I saw one in the background of a picture taken by another member (was it in a picture with Robert's Apex?). Could it have been a demonstrator model from a show room? I've asked to see if it could be pictured more closely.

I called Geoff's collection the harem even though I think I once said something to the effect of Him being the 'crazy cat lady' of the wringer world... I'm glad he still speaks to me... LOL!!!

RCD

Post# 368268 , Reply# 28   7/30/2009 at 08:16 (5,383 days old) by geoffdelp (SAUK RAPIDS)        

Hi RCD ... Well ... I suppose I've been called worse over the years; crazy cat lady doesn't seem too bad!!! :-)

Yes ... there WAS a clear demonstrator tub and you are right, Robert does have one. I bet if you went over his pictures, you would find it. His is VERY unique in the fact that the low-post gyratator that is in the machine, was made from Pyrex glass!! They produced those gyratators during WWII when all metals and plastics were rationed. He has a great little piece of American history there.

These tubs went on Model J's and were used to demonstrate Maytag's famous gyrafoam action. A variety of things were used in tubs for demonstrating over the years. Dealers used ping-pong balls, poker chips and, of course, water. When filled with water and clothing, the washing action is clearly evident; it must have been a great sales tool!!

Guess what? I have a demonstrator tub, too!! I am also lucky enough to possess a low-post black agitator!

All of that will be a part of my "red harem" ... whenever I get it done. With summer and work and the yard and garden and golfing, my weeks go by really, really fast. I am going to just have to block some serious "Geoff time" in the garage!

I guess maybe I am a crazy cat lady with my Maytag wringers!! :-) LOL

Post# 368329 , Reply# 29   7/30/2009 at 15:04 (5,383 days old) by westingman123 ()        
crazy cat lady

 Umm,I have a feeling we all qualify as "crazy cat ladies" when it comes to appliances. Not crazy at all, considering the world we live in. Now golfers, on the other hand....(insert smirk here). Oh, and call me Keith. William was my Daddy.

Post# 369169 , Reply# 30   8/2/2009 at 23:34 (5,379 days old) by mayart ()        

I'm FINALLY a reply posted, sorry it took so long!!

~~~~~

WHITEKINGD,

thanks for the response, sorry I missed you in my thank you the other day!
~~~~~

polkanut,

Borax is good stuff, isn't it? I used to use it back when my kids were little to get their cloth diapers white. :)
~~~~~

Geoff,

I'm sure I lost a least 1/2 cup, it was all over the tarp that I put in my van and a bit had soaked through to the carpet.
~~~~~~


Wellllllll, I've cranked 'er up and it's a go. :}

Except for maybe the wringer itself, still gotta mess around with it. Maybe I was doing something wrong. We'll see. (Thank you, polkanut for the wringer instructions, I'm gonna print them out and take them downstairs to the washer tomorrow to see if I can get the wringer going.)

I filled it up for the first time on Friday.

As soon as it was full and I had added some towels...the agitator fllllllllooooooooooated up and sideways. I pushed it back down. It stayed and proceeded to swish back and forth and the towels did that rollover y'all talk about. It was kind of a strange experience having the water so full and rolling around, but all was well.

And .... I DO have a pump! (Even though my model number on the machine doesn't have a "P" in it...anyone know why that would be?) And it works quite well, except that when the tub is almost empty, water starts dripping all over the floor, so I gotta figure out what is going on. Maybe the clamp isn't tight enough anymore?

So, I used it on Friday night and then again today, and it agitated and agitated for several hours. I had to use my top loader for the rinse part after I wrung everything out by hand. I think it went well for the first time.

Can we still get new rollers? My top roller is black and when I was cleaning it, some came off on the rag, so I don't want that going on the clothes when I wring them out.
~~~~~~~


Geoff,

that "harem" shot is great!! Those are some sweet looking machines! Someday I would like to get one of the square tubs.
I love the turquoise and white together, it's so pretty.
~~~~~

LOL @ RCD about the Crazy Cat Lady title - wringers must be like Lay's potato chips, I guess! ;)

Post# 369197 , Reply# 31   8/3/2009 at 05:39 (5,379 days old) by whitekingd ()        
New rollers!

 I have frequently seen new Maytag rollers for sale on E-bay. Check it out!


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