Thread Number: 32302
KitchenAid K-45 Mixer -- How Old Is It?
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Post# 487095   1/7/2011 at 18:15 (4,829 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        

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I found this mixer at Savers today. Complete with paddle, whisk and dough hook -- how did that happen? It runs smoothly and super quietly. It struck me as worth $29.99 so I snapped it up, and just in time, as another guy was ready to swoop in as I was examining it.

It's obviously a Hobart, but there is no information on the band saying so, or wattage information either (I presume it's the standard 250 watts).

Only on the base plate where the bowl locks in does it say "Hobart."

How can I tell its age? If a serial number would help, where would I find one?





Post# 487096 , Reply# 1   1/7/2011 at 18:17 (4,829 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        

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There seems to be a tip broken off one upper corner of the paddle. What would that have been? The other corner is rounded, as are both corners on all paddles I'm familiar with.


Post# 487101 , Reply# 2   1/7/2011 at 18:54 (4,829 days old) by Maytagbear (N.E. Ohio)        
Mine is from the 80s, and this is DEFINITELY

older. I would guess (but am guessing) 60s.


GOOD catch, Ralph. Still lots of life in it.


Lawrence/Maytagbear


Post# 487174 , Reply# 3   1/7/2011 at 22:33 (4,829 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        

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I did some Googling and it seems that it's not easy to pinpoint the vintage on a K45. This model was produced from 1962 to 1979, but the machines themselves don't have evident serial numbers. I did however, find volts (115) and watts (250) information on the bowl's interlocking plate on the base.

I was thinking my machine might be 60's but now I'm more inclined to say 70's.

Since it's a K45 and not a K45SS, it precedes the solid state control models, which per my research debuted in 1979. So, I've learned that my mom's almond Hobart K45SS is no older than 1979. The logo on mine is an earlier style and the mixing bowl has the earlier more tapered sides, and a pronounced lip around the edge.

Can anyone comment on solid state vs. non-solid state controls? The speed control on mine seems very precise with a brief and seemingly engineered hesitation before kicking up or bumping down to the next speed after the lever has been moved in either direction.

One thing is for certain. It's the smoothest, quietest running KA stand mixer I've ever heard, and likely a much better machine than the raspy chirpy Professional model I got my partner for Xmas three years ago.

Also, the broken piece on the paddle is some sort of tip section off that one corner, apparently less than 2" long. I've found illustrations and photos of the tip, and of paddles with the tip broken off. I'm debating on whether to try and smooth down the area of the break. I see no purpose for the tip section (but I guess Hobart did in the beginning) nor do I have any reason to think a missing tip will have any impact on performance.




This post was last edited 01/08/2011 at 02:06
Post# 489185 , Reply# 4   1/15/2011 at 20:28 (4,821 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        
Attention KitchenAid Mixer Owners!

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My "new" K45 needs all five rubber feet (see pic below where there is no gap between pedestal and bench it's sitting on. The originals all look like quarter-sized under-done pancakes.

On line the per-foot price ranges from around $2 to $3.50, which struck me as ridiculous.

Then I saw a comment posted, I believe on Amazon, that advised "Do not buy these!" which went on to state that KitchenAid will replace them for free with no shipping charge either!

This morning I called KA parts, gave my model number and the representative went right into arranging to send them to me free of charge.

If anybody needs replacement feet, all it takes is a call to KA parts.


Post# 489405 , Reply# 5   1/16/2011 at 19:47 (4,820 days old) by sudsmaster (SF Bay Area, California)        

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Ummm... looks perfect for mixing up a big batch of ...

zucchini bread!!!

;-)


Post# 489425 , Reply# 6   1/16/2011 at 20:40 (4,820 days old) by PassatDoc (Orange County, California)        

My K45 is from 2003. We had a nine month long grocery strike in California, I did not want to cross picket lines but I needed bread! I followed the French Bread 101 recipe in the K45 booklet and it came out great. Solid state control is quiet and seems to allow some variability in speed when you move it slowly from the first to the second notch.

The flat beater is white coated. Definitely not metallic appearing as the beater in your photo.

Excellent buy for $29. My model cost $169 from Amazon in 2003, but my net cost was $139 because they ran a special: for every $50 you spent on kitchen items, you earned a $10 gift card. So it was $169-$30 in gift cards back, or $139 net cost. Today, the same mixer costs $199 at Amazon, with no special deals. You can buy a new beater for it for about $10.

If you make cakes or cookies, consider one of the new flat beaters that scrapes the sides so you don't have to. You can always save the original beater for display, but the new scraper beaters work great.



CLICK HERE TO GO TO PassatDoc's LINK


Post# 489476 , Reply# 7   1/17/2011 at 01:13 (4,820 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        

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Hey Rich, I don't mind zucchini bread at all.  That's about all I find that particular vegetable is good for.

 

I did get one of those after-market scraper type beater blades for the Pro HD machine and it does a good job.

 

I'm still trying to determine a timeline for the K45.  Like, when did they start putting the white coating on the flat beater and dough hook?  When did they do away with the flat lip on the bowl (which tends to scrape the paint off the pedestal if you're not careful when positioning it onto its base)?  When did they start giving it a three-prong plug?  On line research produces very little to help, and even KA's own on-line resource people state that Hobart didn't use serial numbers or other forms of identification that would help determine the age of their mixers.  All KA can provide is a huge spread, such as somewhere between 1962 and 1979 as I mentioned above. 

 

So far, all I know is that solid state controls were introduced in 1979, which is when "SS" was tagged onto the K45 model designation.  As the pictures show, my machine has the earlier bowl, uncoated beater and dough hook, and not shown is the standard two-prong plug.  The plug looks like it's from the 70's and may be the best indicator of my machine's approximate age, as I'm fairly certain the yellowed cord is original.

 

Today I perfomed a test on my K45 per Hobart's service instructions, which advises to hold the planetary with one hand and move the switch lever with the other.  With switch in the #1 position, it shouldn't be possible to stall the planetary (except by a very great effort), nor should it slow down noticeably.   It passed, but I did hear some clicking from inside the gear case and am wondering if there may be issues with big jobs such as kneading dough.  Since I don't bake bread from scratch I don't anticipate any trouble, but perhaps a gear could stand to be replaced at some point.


Post# 489576 , Reply# 8   1/17/2011 at 13:32 (4,819 days old) by PassatDoc (Orange County, California)        

You might want to consider tricking it out with the three quart bowl, which should fit all K45 models but was introduced long after your machine was made. Great for single batches and smaller jobs, or when you need a second bowl in addition to the larger one. It nests inside the 4.5 quart bowl to save space. I have also bought them for friends and relatives who own KA tilt head mixers (it also fits the 5 qt Artisan series) and everyone has found them useful.

Post# 489599 , Reply# 9   1/17/2011 at 16:14 (4,819 days old) by autowasherfreak ()        

My KA is from the early 80's, and the plastic coating (guessing) on the beater is pealing really bad, so I've been thinking about getting a new beater, the one with the scraper looks pretty neat.

 


Post# 489831 , Reply# 10   1/18/2011 at 10:16 (4,818 days old) by PassatDoc (Orange County, California)        

There are several makes of after market scraper beaters. There are some with gaps in the silicone edge to allow nuts to pass without being crushed. I have the model pictured above. I use the scraper beater for making banana bread with walnut pieces, and I don't have problems with nuts being crushed. I don't use the scraper for very thick doughs like chocolate chip cookies because it could strain the motor (makes the beater harder to turn). I have the base K45 model with 250 W power. Quick bread batter is not as thick and then the scraper beater works fine. Also the mixer is great for making double batches of bread dough (7-8 cups of flour) with the dough hook.

The nice thing about your find is that new accessories are available to fit if something is broken or missing. You can keep the old beater for appearance, but you'll probably find that newer OEM or aftermarket accessories work better when you actually USE the thing.


Post# 489868 , Reply# 11   1/18/2011 at 14:13 (4,818 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        

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What I find interesting is that the higher end bowl-lift type of KA mixers that can be bought today don't have the coating on the flat beater or the dough hook.  Our Pro HD came with un-coated ones, the dough hook being the later corkscrew type. 

 

I also don't get why the entry level K5 bowl-lift model has a spring-loaded attachment post, but models further up the line (like the Pro HD) don't use the spring.

 

I presume that the un-coated beater and dough hook that came with my K45 can be used, but yeah, if I come across some newer ones I'll probably grab them.  My mom's early K45SS made by Hobart has the coated type so now I think the clue to when my mixer was made could be in the logo.  I've checked on line and don't see any timeline for changes to the KA logo though.  Apparently plain old K45's were still being made when the logo was updated, so knowing when that change was made could get me a little closer to determining the age of my machine.


Post# 489879 , Reply# 12   1/18/2011 at 16:01 (4,818 days old) by Maytagbear (N.E. Ohio)        
The uncoated Flat Beater and Dough Hook

 

Are not dishwasher safe, so if that is a consideration (it is for me).......

 

 

Lawrence/Maytagbear


Post# 489894 , Reply# 13   1/18/2011 at 17:12 (4,818 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        

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Good point Lawrence. 

 

I'm not the avid baker my mom was but if I were, I would surely want the coated items.


Post# 490928 , Reply# 14   1/23/2011 at 08:27 (4,813 days old) by Mixguy (St. Martinville, Louisiana)        
Kitchaid Flat Beaters

When KitchenAid first introduced the K45 in 1962. It was an upgrade to the previous K4 that had a 4 qt narrower bowl, and beater and a "screw-in" bowl. The flat beater had an "ear" to reach higher about 3/4" to catch more of what clings to the sides of the bowl. The early bowls had no rolled rim, (NSF approved)allowing commercial use. Not sure when nylon coating was begun, it is not mentioned in any Kitchen Aid product or feature time line. The early coated beaters still had the "ear." I believe taking the "ear" off was a part of new safety regulations, just like detachable cords and the hole to hang portable mixers on the wall being no longer available. KitchenAid now has it own silicone scraper beater that is retails for 29.99.

Post# 491147 , Reply# 15   1/23/2011 at 22:58 (4,813 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        

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Russell, thanks for that good information.  I like the purpose of the "ear" on the flat beater and may pursue finding a replacement that has its "ear" intact.

 

Interesting that NSF approval hinged on the bowl rim.  I wonder why.

 

Although my mixer has a two-prong plug I think it's probably among the last made before the logo changed.  The reinforcement end of the plug looks much like the one on my Hobart K45SS.  I wonder if when the logo changed and/or when the K45SS debuted, if that is when the shape changed on the knob that secures attachments in the hub as well.


Post# 491241 , Reply# 16   1/24/2011 at 13:08 (4,812 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        
The K4 Mixers

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After Russell's mention of the K4 series, I had to check Google to see what they look like.

 

No doubt about it, a late issue K4 (K4-C, I presume) is something I hope to find.  I think the handle on top makes perfect sense for tilting the head back, and the tail fin is right out of Flash Gordon.

 

I've seen pictures of K4's using their own original beater (like the 3B/4C types) as well as with the later flat beater, dough hook and whisk found on the K45 and other subsequent models, so other than the different and slightly smaller bowl design the K4's seem capable of doing anything the K45's can do.

 

The one pictured is missing its "hub cap" and has clearly had its cord replaced.  The tip of the tail fin is visible if you look closely.

 

 

 


Post# 491287 , Reply# 17   1/24/2011 at 19:42 (4,812 days old) by appnut (TX)        
the K4's seem capable of doing anything the K45's ca

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Not so.  Definitely not so.  I have a 4C.  I love it for the purposes I have used it for.  I am even blessed with the original glass bowl and companion beater.  I also have a metal bowl.  The 4C, from what I've been able to ascertain, was priced and designed to compete with Sunbeam, Waring, ... but still be a KitchenAid.  i also have the recipe book/users manual for it.  It specifically states it's not intended to be used to make yeast bread dough and similar dense item.  It will tackle a dense batter bread/sweet bread and can also tackle heavy dough like chocolate chip cookie dough (see arhives of Kelly finding this unit and using it when he visited with his grandduaughters in Kansas August, 2009.  And you are really not supposed to use any other device other than the multipurpose whip/beater that it came with.  I can see where it cannot deal with yeast bread dough and kneating like a K45 with the dough hook.  But I love it, I'd never had a stand mixer before, only a KA hand mixer that finally wore out after 20 years.  I still have my Sunbeam food processor which makes excellent bread dough very rapidly and I use recipes where I don't have to proof the yeast (and take a chance of it either dying or being killed with accidentally too hot a water).  I discovered by accident how superior a bread product is the result of bread flour vs. using all-purpose flour.  I now use only the bread flour when I make bread. 


Post# 491331 , Reply# 18   1/24/2011 at 22:40 (4,812 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        

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So Bob, are you saying that the K4 and 4C are the same mechanically but with different housings, pedestals and controls?

 

I'm not a bread baker so it's not important to me that a K4 is or isn't able to knead dough.  I just like its practicality and looks.


Post# 491343 , Reply# 19   1/24/2011 at 23:32 (4,812 days old) by appnut (TX)        

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Ralph, my 4C does not look like your above.  I've only known my to be referred to as a 4C, not a K4C.  It doesn't have as large motor as yours does.  It's a lighter duty, more of a medium duty.  Yours comes with a dough hook so you can do bread dough.  Mine doesn't .  That doesn't bother me at all.  Since I have an option for making dough, I am very pleased with what my mixer can do for me.  I don't think the K4C is the same as the K4. there's a little portion of my 1982 Sunbeam LeChef food processor.  that's what I use to make bread dough in.

 


Post# 491344 , Reply# 20   1/24/2011 at 23:37 (4,812 days old) by appnut (TX)        

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Here it is with the original glass bowl which came with these models.  They were made form like 1961 until 1977.   Not the difference in the mxing attachment.  It's an all-purpose, universal type of function.  It's very similar to the Combi-bowl, which was a 3 quart bowl for lift-bowl design models which had its own beater and looks similar--so what's old is new again.


Post# 491353 , Reply# 21   1/25/2011 at 01:48 (4,812 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        

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Thanks Bob.  My research indicates that the K4's date back to the 1940's and were originally 3-speed machines.  I think Hobart probably dropped the K4 in 1962 when the K45's were introduced.   I think by that time the K4's were up to 10 speeds or close to it, so that's why I'd like a later one, probably a K4-C.

 

So from what you've stated about the 4-C, just about any 4-C is likely to be newer than any K4, which is not what I would have expected. Your 4-C is very nice looking in that silver color.

 

Strange how the K4's had that weird way of attaching the bowl to the pedestal.  It seems no other model before or since had that same arrangement.


Post# 1048992 , Reply# 22   10/27/2019 at 12:04 (1,614 days old) by PearlsGirl52 (Illinois )        
Kitchen Aid mixer K45

This is on the bottom of the mixer, I can’t find a serial number. How can I find out how old this is?


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Post# 1049010 , Reply# 23   10/27/2019 at 14:11 (1,614 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        
Hi Linda,

rp2813's profile picture

 

 

There doesn't seem to be any sure way to determine a K45's age.  What does the logo look like on yours and what does the knob for the attachment hub look like?  Pictures of those may help somewhat.


Post# 1049022 , Reply# 24   10/27/2019 at 15:16 (1,614 days old) by LordKenmore (The Laundry Room)        
How can I find out how old this is?

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Others know KitchenAid better than I do. As Ralph said, others might come up with a date with more photos of the mixer.

But I can say I'd assume it's no newer than 1980-something because the plate says "Hobart", which sold KitchenAid in the 1980s to Whirlpool.



Post# 1049188 , Reply# 25   10/28/2019 at 19:02 (1,613 days old) by Louvac (M)        
Look under

Look under the mixer inside the neck. There may be a white rectangular piece of paper sticker with purplish numbers on it. It looks like an unimportant manufacturing sticker.

Let me know what you find!


Post# 1049504 , Reply# 26   10/30/2019 at 23:20 (1,611 days old) by fisherpaykel (BC Canada)        
clues to age of Kitchenaid

Maybe the UL or CSA ratings organizations can state when standard voltage changed from 115 volts to 120 volts per their small appliance rating plates to at least narrow the age range.


Post# 1049529 , Reply# 27   10/31/2019 at 06:31 (1,610 days old) by Tomturbomatic (Beltsville, MD)        

I first saw the 4C on the French Chef in the 60s, when Julia wanted to be able to show what was happening in the glass bowl.

 

I have used mine next to the K45SS for making two pound cakes at a time. I used to bake 8 cakes in Bundt pans at a time. They went into the ovens 20 minutes apart. After the last cakes were put to baking, I got all of the prep stuff started washing in the KDS18. By the time I got the counters cleaned up, it was time to take the first two out of the oven and that process continued every 20 minutes until they were all done. While the finished cakes look the same, the 4c produced a batter that is much thinner than the thicker batter of the 45. I don't know why. I bought the metal bowl & white plastic pouring shield for the 4C so, except for a different beater, they are outfitted the same. It must be the different beater that makes the difference.

 

I had some trouble with the speed control of my original 45. After high speed mixing, like to get the eggs incorporated thoroughly, it did not want to slow down completely when shifted to the lowest setting to fold in the flour. I had it made into a 45SS by Hobart.


Post# 1049970 , Reply# 28   11/4/2019 at 21:16 (1,606 days old) by stevet (West Melbourne, FL)        
How old is your mixer?

It has to have been made prior to 1974 because Hobart Manufacturing Co. became Hobart Corporation in 1974. The possibility exists that there were left over bowl clamps like yours that continued on the assembly line but they probably changed over to say Hobart Corp at least by 1975.

I still use my 3B/4C mixer that was from the 40's and it still works like a charm. Turns out the silkiest, smoothest cakes even from store bought mixes. Just the right size and lighter than my K45's.


Post# 1050002 , Reply# 29   11/5/2019 at 07:34 (1,605 days old) by norgeway (mocksville n c )        
The K

Came out about 37 and was a 3 qt Then the K4 These replaced the much heavier bulkier model G which is the same as a Hobart N50 ...the 3 A and B were made for lighter duty to compete with Sunbeam, The 3B was replaced by the 3C in 1950 then the 4C whick had a larger bowl, The K4 was built until the K45 came out Its a heavier duty machine than the 4C,, The K and K4 both have tinned steel bowls, but yes The K4 is basically a K45

Post# 1050100 , Reply# 30   11/6/2019 at 15:13 (1,604 days old) by vacerator (Macomb, Michigan)        
Excellent Hans,

I didn't know the timeline of their product evolution. My high school buds mom had a K5a from about 1976, and the nylon drive gear in the head stripped after onyly a year or 2 of use. The repiar center fixed it no charge though. Do you kniow when they stopped using all metal gearing? We go to an ice cream parlor where they use liquid nitrogen, and they have the commercial ones. You can tell they must have all metal gears as the sound is totally different.

Post# 1051033 , Reply# 31   11/14/2019 at 16:48 (1,596 days old) by PhilR (Quebec Canada)        

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Anyone knows if there's a serial number stamped somewhere on these? My 4C says Hobart MFG which I assume makes it older than 1975? There's a hand written note under the base, is that a date code?

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Post# 1059362 , Reply# 32   2/1/2020 at 10:32 (1,517 days old) by Mayeb (El Segundo)        
Fix it help

Trying to get this lovely back up and running. Think the head needs adjustment and any guides to attachments that might fit? The attachment seems to need a slightly larger opening hang than some of the paddles sent with it. Also seems the head is tilted a bit too far down. Worth fixing I think. Motor is fine just not fitting the bowl and again think head is too far forward.

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Post# 1059373 , Reply# 33   2/1/2020 at 12:49 (1,517 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        

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Neither of those attachments appear to be the correct size for your mixer.   The one with the white coating looks like it's for a larger mixing bowl and the burnished one looks like it belongs on a smaller model of mixer.

 

There are owner's and service manuals available to download for a fee (see link).  You should also consider a later style mixing bowl that has a rolled rim.  My K45 had the same scratches on the stand from the edge of bowl rim.  



CLICK HERE TO GO TO RP2813's LINK

Post# 1061455 , Reply# 34   2/24/2020 at 20:37 (1,494 days old) by 6foot8guy (Houston, TX)        
RE: Look Under

Heya Louvac, just got my mom's old mixer and found these forums and your question. Looked under the mixer and there's a sticker. It is in purple and white and says , 9577.

I'm guessing it was made in 1977.

What say you?




Post# 1049188, Reply# 25 10/28/2019 at 19:02 by Louvac (M)

>Look under the mixer inside the neck. There may be a white rectangular piece of paper sticker with purplish >numbers on it. It looks like an unimportant manufacturing sticker.

>Let me know what you find!



CLICK HERE TO GO TO 6foot8guy's LINK


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Post# 1065147 , Reply# 35   3/30/2020 at 03:04 (1,460 days old) by HootOwl46 (South Carolina)        
Also wanting to date my K45

I've had a Hobart-made K45 for about three years and have always been curious to figure out just how old it is. I've always estimated it to be from the mid-70s, just based on the color (pale yellow, possibly "Harvest Gold") and condition, although after reading the messages above, I suspect it may be a little older and certainly made before the company changed its name to Hobart Corp.

The plate where the bowl is mounted reads "KITCHENAID DIVISION THE HOBART MFG. CO. TROY, OHIO." It specifies 115 Volts and has the UL seal but not the CSA seal. It also has a line stamped along the lower edge that I have not seen on other plates, reading "CAUTION: UNPLUG BEFORE INSERTING OR REMOVING PAR" (see photo) which is also printed on the band around the motor housing (except the last word is complete).

The sticker inside the base reads "17379" which, if it is a date code of some sort, I cannot easily decipher. (Perhaps "73" is the year?) The bowl has a rolled edge (no significant nicks on the pedestal) and the power cord has two prongs.

I just bought a new Artisan Series mixer, which is scheduled for delivery later on today. I am looking forward to comparing the two machines.

Any guess as to when this machine may have been made? It runs well and passes the try-to-hold-the-beater test. The only reason I bought the new one was so that it would match all the other appliances in my kitchen, and the price was right.


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Post# 1065207 , Reply# 36   3/30/2020 at 15:09 (1,459 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        

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David, your mixer appears to be among the last ones made before the the SS designation.  I would guess it's from the late '70s.  The round knobs for the speed and lock levers provide another clue.  I think it wasn't long after production began on the SS models that the knobs were changed to the style still in use by KA today (compared to your new Artisan).

 

The black brush adjusting screws on the side of your mixer also stem from a design change that (by my estimation) was made around the time the SS models were launched.  The attachment hub cover on your machine appears from the side view to be the later type with the KA logo on it, which likely means the original plain cover was lost at some point.

 

I don't know what to make of the sticker on yours.  Perhaps if you disregard the 1, then July 3, 1979 could be the date of manufacture.  I haven't been able to determine when KA switched from the font style on my mixer in the OP to the style found on yours, but I think it was well before 1979. 

 

Lastly, the "caution" verbiage reeks of advisories and idiot-proofing that began appearing in the late '70s on all sorts of household appliances regardless of manufacturer.


Post# 1065830 , Reply# 37   4/4/2020 at 03:06 (1,455 days old) by HootOwl46 (South Carolina)        

Thank you, Sannazay, for your assessment. After posting my previous message and thinking more about that sticker, I agree with you that my machine is a 1979 vintage. What threw me off track initially were other messages I had seen that said Hobart had dropped "Manufacturing" from their name in 1974. Either that was incorrect information or my machine was constructed from parts that were remaining in inventory five years after the name change, specifically the locking plate (AKA screw cap kit).

Reinterpreting that sticker without considering the name change leads me to believe that my K45 was made on day 173, or June 22, of 1979. Thus it could indeed have been one of the last of the K45 models to be assembled. I tried to look up the date on which the assembly line switched over to building the K45SS model but couldn't come up with anything.

Incidentally, you were correct about the attachment hub cap having been replaced. It was missing when I acquired the machine from the son of the original owner and I didn't like looking at the gaping hole in the housing. Perhaps I should have bought an original, unadorned cap from someone on eBay, but the one with the KA logo looks very contemporary.

My new Artisan 5 qt. (KSM150OB) is nice and all, but I'm really cheesed off that Whirlpool decided the spring-and-washer assembly on the "agitator" shaft was superfluous and eliminated it sometime around 2016. Without that spring, the flat beater/dough hook/whisk attachment doesn't snap on with authority, thus forcing the user to look to make sure the attachment really is engaged. The original Hobart design showed great attention to detail, the subtlety of which seems to escape the Whirlpool engineers.

You can't buy those parts from Whirlpool parts retailers anymore, so I had to order them individually from other sources so I could "upgrade" my machine to original specs. I couldn't order just one spring and one washer, so I ordered the smallest quantity of each that I could order. I may end up combining the surplus pieces as kits and selling them on eBay for anyone who wants to make their machine whole again. Pulling that planetary assembly is so simple that anyone with a modicum of mechanical ability would be able to install the kit easily.

Over the next week or so I will be cleaning out and repacking the gear grease on my K45 -- using genuine Benalene 930-2 grease, of course. One has to be very careful if using ordinary food-grade grease, as the temperature profile might be completely different.

I haven't decided yet whether to keep the K45 or to sell it to someone who can give it a good home. It is in really great shape but, to be truthful, I really don't have the space to keep two KitchenAid mixers. If I do keep it, however, I might upgrade it to electronic motor control. (The last I knew, America's Test Kitchen still rated the 4.5 qt. KitchenAid mixers as their "Best Buy" in consumer stand mixers.)


Post# 1065831 , Reply# 38   4/4/2020 at 03:44 (1,454 days old) by HootOwl46 (South Carolina)        

Oops, I meant "Ralph," not "Sannazay."

Post# 1065877 , Reply# 39   4/4/2020 at 12:52 (1,454 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

David, I think you've figured it out.  I hadn't thought of the 173 referring to day of the year, but that's likely correct.  There is no sticker inside the base of my K45, so it will remain a mystery as to its age until more information shows up on line.

 

I think the original attachment hub covers were easily lost.  They were simple round flat plates with teeth around the edge that snapped into place and were pried out.  The new types are held in place by the tightening knob on the side of the hub, and just due to their size are a lot easier to keep track of.  I keep a vintage knife sharpening attachment in place on my machine and after checking in all of the logical spots, can't find the plain hub cover plate for it now.  I know it can't have gone far, and hope it will show up.

 

You're right about the "missing" planetary spring, but I thought that only the larger bowl-lift models had no spring.  I bought my sister a refurbished 6-quart model from KA on line and immediately noticed the missing spring.  I called and was told that the bigger models don't use a spring.  If your Artisan is a tilt-head type, this is the first I've heard of KA doing away with springs on that design too.  I agree that the spring helps to confirm that the paddle/whip/hook has been correctly installed, and it's good to know that a retrofit is possible.

 

I loaned Robert (our webmaster) my K5/K45 service manual and he has scanned and posted it in the library to be downloaded for a small fee.  That may help you with your rebuild/refurbishing, but I suggest you hang onto the K45 until you're sure you like the Artisan. 

 

I wouldn't bother with upgrading the speed control unless it's presenting problems, and besides, a new SS control wouldn't have the vintage round knob on the sliding lever like the original does, resulting in a mismatch with the locking lever.

 

Ralph

 

 

 

 


Post# 1065900 , Reply# 40   4/4/2020 at 15:15 (1,454 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        
Logo As Indicator

rp2813's profile picture

Chalk it up to too much time on my hands during the current situation, but it occurred to me that in trying to figure out when the KA logo changed to its current iteration, I shouldn't limit myself to researching mixers.  Duh.

 

So I did an online search of dishwasher pictures and magazine ads, etc.  It appears that the last dishwasher KA produced with the same logo as seen on my mixer in the OP was the 15 series, which was introduced in the mid '60s.  I also found magazine ads from 1966 that showed a 15 series dishwasher but the copy of the ad included the later logo, so the transition appears to have taken place around then.

 

Based on this, I'd say my K45 can't be any later than the mid '60s unless they had lots of tilt head bands with the older style logo to be used up.  I can't say for sure when that logo began appearing.  I saw ads from 1960 with it, I think for a series 14 dishwasher, so I suppose my mixer could be at least that old.


Post# 1094351 , Reply# 41   10/24/2020 at 12:50 (1,251 days old) by Holli (Illinois)        
New 1.3 HP Pro model or stick with my 45 S Kitchen Aid Mixer

I;m trying to figure out if the new 1.3 hp motor will be better or same as my 45S that was my Mom's I don't know how hold it is exactly, but I know it was purchased around 1972 (+/- 2 years). It's harvest gold. The purple number on the sticker is 22979, whatever that might mean. It still runs great, but the capacity is small for bread, pasta and other dough. Thanks in advance for any help, thoughts or opinions.

Post# 1094372 , Reply# 42   10/24/2020 at 15:54 (1,251 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

I think durability and the noise factor are the big negatives with newer KA mixers, but if you need more capacity, yes, you'll need a new mixer.  I would suggest you try to stick with a tilt-head type if there's one on the market that's large enough for your needs.  I found the bowl-lift Professional HD that we had was annoying to use.

 

Per research I posted above, I think your mom's K45 SS isn't likely older than 1979. 


Post# 1094397 , Reply# 43   10/24/2020 at 19:12 (1,251 days old) by Holli (Illinois)        
New 1.3 HP Pro model or stick with my 45 S Kitchen Aid Mixer

I know for a fact it was bought way before 1979. I was there when she got it. I just can't remember 1972 or 73 (related to when we moved & the new all harvest gold kitchen/ I was about 14). Thanks!

Post# 1101506 , Reply# 44   12/21/2020 at 12:08 (1,193 days old) by lakewebsterkid (Dayton, Ohio)        
K45

My grandparents replaced their K45 after years of hard use. I quickly grabbed it instead of them selling it. I agree that it is the smoothest and quietest KitchenAid I have ever used. Nothing beats a true Hobart KA machine.

Post# 1101508 , Reply# 45   12/21/2020 at 12:39 (1,193 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

One thing I've noticed on my K45 recently is that when I turn it on to top speed to use the knife sharpener attachment, it doesn't always run at top speed.  I have to move the speed lever back a bit, then forward, and then it runs at full speed. 

 

I think this serves as a good argument for the solid state speed control, but it's possible that the situation could be remedied if I wanted to bother with taking a look at things under the cover.  If the issue gets worse, that's what I'll do.  In the meantime, I love using my smooth, quiet K45, particularly with the after-market bowl-scraping flat beater.  I can't remember the last time I had to scrape down the sides of the bowl myself.


Post# 1101545 , Reply# 46   12/21/2020 at 19:25 (1,193 days old) by ovrphil (N.Atlanta / Georgia )        
How old is my Kitchenaid Mixer?

ovrphil's profile picture

I posted a timeline for Hobart over 5 years ago...not searching for it, but here's a nice brochure that pegs that K45 at 1962.

I know this is nearing 10 years old for the thread, but I hope this will still be of interest.



CLICK HERE TO GO TO ovrphil's LINK


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Post# 1101556 , Reply# 47   12/21/2020 at 20:02 (1,193 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        
O-M-F-G!

rp2813's profile picture

Phil, I know it's displayed at the top of every thread, but I really had no idea that it has been TEN YEARS since I acquired my K45 until you pointed it out.  Time is flying faster than ever, like a goddamned runaway train.

 

I guess this thread must land near the top of Google search hits because it has been revived a number of times over that period by others, primarily first-time posters.   I can get annoyed by revived ancient threads as much as the next person (remember Dick S. trying to set some kind of record with his Flair thread), but I hope that with this one there has been some helpful information gleaned or dispensed as a result.

 

 


Post# 1101588 , Reply# 48   12/22/2020 at 00:09 (1,193 days old) by ovrphil (N.Atlanta / Georgia )        
Flying by

ovrphil's profile picture
Ten years! I know, it's amazing(s.o.b.,where did my last 10 years go?). Eight years ago, I found aw.org(I think, but not 10). Agreed, reviving some older threads can be annoying and I wasn't sensitive to that at first. None-the-less,the old threads come up in my searches and occasionally help me or inspire me to push on. I could have posted the Kitchenaid history as a new thread, though. Kitchenaid is so popular, the older threads can have a timeless value, information-wise.

Anyway, Ralph...enjoy your coming Christmas holiday and time off, if that's what is coming. Best wishes for happy mixing. I think it's great that you still have and use that K45, which may age, but doesn't likely show it quite as much as us mortals.


Post# 1120068 , Reply# 49   6/12/2021 at 15:35 (1,020 days old) by Louvac (M)        
Kitchenaid Stand Mixer Model K45

Hey Guys!

I happened upon another Kitchenaid K45 250W stand mixer at the GW outlet. Was quite dirty and what I thought was scratched up paint marks turned out to be just grease marks of some kind. With some cleaning and a Magic Eraser, all of them came off and the machine is in quite good shape actually! Not bad for $3.99!!

You just have to be a little careful with a Magic Eraser as it can etch or dull painted surfaces particularly if you are too aggressive with your cleaning. Car wax will generally restore the shine pretty good.

Anyway, once I again I wanted to date this machine and once again under the neck inside, there is a white sticker--the only label bearing a number of any kind other than what is stamped on the bowl plate. The number on this one is 34376.

Now, I know there was some talk on this thread a while back a about dating these machines and I think I may have hit on something here. Ricky, sorry for never getting back to you but I think I may have cracked the code.

Many manufacturers use Julian dates in their serial numbers or for their manufacturing code. I think the one I just found boils down to this translation:
The number 34376 means that it was made on the 343rd day in 1976. Which means that it was made on December 10, 1976. Like wise, Ricky yours was made on the 95th day of 1977. Which further translates to April 5, 1977.

For manufacturers, Julian dates provided a more concise date code and were easier too read in most respects. This number on mine makes sense because it was made before 1986 when KA was still owned by Hobart. This would explain why yours, Ricky is only 4 digits and mine is 5 digits.

What do you guys think?


Post# 1120076 , Reply# 50   6/12/2021 at 16:25 (1,020 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

Makes sense to me!  I wish mine still had a sticker.  Without one, the best I can come up with is a range of years rather than an exact date.

 

You got a great deal on that mixer, even if it didn't have a bowl or its beaters!


Post# 1120082 , Reply# 51   6/12/2021 at 17:41 (1,020 days old) by Louvac (M)        
What does...

What does the Kitchenaid font look like? I will take a pic of mine once I finish cleaning it up this weekend. The font can be an indicator of a time period.

Post# 1120089 , Reply# 52   6/12/2021 at 18:48 (1,020 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

Check out the picture in the OP and compare the logo to this later type that KA is still using:

 

KitchenAid Appliance Parts | Genuine Parts | Huge Selection |  eReplacementParts.com


Post# 1120104 , Reply# 53   6/12/2021 at 20:33 (1,020 days old) by Louvac (M)        
Don't mean to be a

dumb ass but what is "OP" mean? LOL

Post# 1120106 , Reply# 54   6/12/2021 at 20:53 (1,020 days old) by wiskybill (Canton, Ohio)        
not to worry...

OP usually refers to the original post or poster

Post# 1120149 , Reply# 55   6/13/2021 at 13:21 (1,019 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

I just noticed that this thread has received over 37K views!   That averages more than ten views per day over the past 10+ years!

 

Clearly, there are a lot of inquiring minds out there wondering how old their mixers are.


Post# 1120154 , Reply# 56   6/13/2021 at 14:07 (1,019 days old) by Louvac (M)        
Did your get

RP2318 Did you get my email?

Post# 1120170 , Reply# 57   6/13/2021 at 16:36 (1,019 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

I did not get your email.  I don't have my address posted, so am not sure how you would have emailed me.


Post# 1120175 , Reply# 58   6/13/2021 at 18:24 (1,019 days old) by Louvac (M)        
OOOPS!

Sorry, Ralph, I had emailed 6foot8guy. It wasn't you.

BUT, I saw your original post and I can see the KA logo is definitely different than most I have seen with this model. I would say that yours is definitely from the mid 60s to the early 70s. I like your model's graphics!

I wonder if there is any interest here in Automatic Washer for a gathering for those of us who are interested in small appliances? A small appliance convention of sorts you could say! It would be so much fun! And, actually be able to use them to produce consumables while there!

Any interest guys?


Post# 1120182 , Reply# 59   6/13/2021 at 19:20 (1,019 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

Oh, there's no shortage of interest in small appliances here!

 

Members Kevin (kevin313) and Hans (norgeway) come to mind as two who have huge collections.  I checked if either of them have a photo album for viewing but they don't.  Kevin has a lot of his collection, most of which is cooking/baking-oriented, displayed in an old small town dime store space somewhere in Michigan.  Last I heard he was planning to open to the place to the public but I don't know where things stand at the moment.


Post# 1120184 , Reply# 60   6/13/2021 at 19:45 (1,019 days old) by ea56 (Cotati, Calif.)        

ea56's profile picture
Ralph, Kevin’s Store is in Michigan and has been open for over two years now. See thread 1031278 for the 411.

Also, check out his many video’s on You Tube on “Cavalcade of Food”. He’s done several videos hightlighting his extensive collection of small appilances and housewares. They are really interesting and I like the way both he and Ralph, his partner do these videos very much.

Eddie


CLICK HERE TO GO TO ea56's LINK




This post was last edited 06/13/2021 at 21:07
Post# 1120185 , Reply# 61   6/13/2021 at 19:54 (1,019 days old) by qsd-dan (West)        

qsd-dan's profile picture

Hans has an impressive collection. His entire mixer collection isn't even included in the thread below.

 

www.automaticwasher.org/c...


Post# 1120246 , Reply# 62   6/14/2021 at 11:05 (1,018 days old) by Louvac (M)        
Damn!

It never pays to get too aggressive! Help! Does anyone have a spare Kitchenaid Mixer model K45 metal band for sale?

When I was cleaning it, the "aid" started to fade off-Shit! I should have left well enough alone!





Post# 1120263 , Reply# 63   6/14/2021 at 12:55 (1,018 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

At least your mixer's band has the current logo on it so if you have to buy a new replacement, it will look correct for the mixer's age. 

 

I found two part numbers for the band and confirmed it will fit 4 and 5 quart models (both tilt head and bowl lift types):  W11230105 and 9702637.  Prices range from $13 & change up to a whopping $28, neither of which includes shipping. 

 

Reviews on Amazon for this part are mixed, some of them indicating that the notched areas for speed control and lock/unlock levers were a poor fit and needed to be filed down.  PartSelect and eReplacementParts sites indicate this part is on back order.  It might require some searching before you find a source that has one readily available.

 

Otherwise, be on the lookout for a parts donor.  They are few and far between, but I once saw a discarded and presumably dead bowl-lift model out behind a restaurant near me.  I had no use for it and didn't need to add to the clutter in my shop, but it sat out there for a while.


Post# 1120269 , Reply# 64   6/14/2021 at 13:47 (1,018 days old) by Louvac (M)        
I was able to locate one on fleebay

Found one on Fleebay for $18-not too bad but it's the same logo as yours in the original post. I don't think it matters much. At least it's in better shape than the one I have now.

Anyway, I discovered something else here today. When I took the rear cover off to clean and inspect it, I noticed inside the back cover in the center is a number 76 which corresponds to the number on the white label underneath and inside the neck of the machine. I am willing to bet donuts to dollars my assumption is correct. When your number is 4-5 digits- the first three will be the Julian date and the last two are the year.

To prove this all we need to do is collect data from other collectors to see what their first three digits are. There should be no number higher than 365!


Post# 1120276 , Reply# 65   6/14/2021 at 14:29 (1,018 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

Interesting.  I guess I'll soon be taking the rear cover off of my mixer and checking for a date.

 

Nice score on the old trim band.  You got a great deal on it!  Post pictures if you can, once you have the mixer all cleaned up and the new band on it.


Post# 1120280 , Reply# 66   6/14/2021 at 14:54 (1,018 days old) by Louvac (M)        
K45

I will post pics once I get it complete, RP! Thanks!


Post# 1120933 , Reply# 67   6/21/2021 at 08:11 (1,011 days old) by Louvac (M)        
Here it is guys!

Hey guys! The band arrived over the weekend along with the rubber feet from KitchenAid which were free. Then I found a set of attachments all three for $32. I did have to make one small adjustment to the head screw just enough to lift the Beaters a tad bit up from the bottom of the bowl. Here's the pics! Oh by the way there's only one small gash up above from the speed control. I will get to Hobby Lobby sometime this week and get some testors paint and do a little touch up. Meguiars Carnauba wax does a fantastic job shining these up. However, I don't think these machines were as highly polished or glossy as the new ones that are made today are. I agree with many of you guys that these older ones are just as good as probably the newer ones but the older ones have a little bit more of a refined sound and mechanical action if you ask me.

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Post# 1120934 , Reply# 68   6/21/2021 at 09:09 (1,011 days old) by eronie (Flushing Michigan)        

The motors on the new ones are totally different!

Post# 1120949 , Reply# 69   6/21/2021 at 13:11 (1,011 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

Nice job cleaning that beauty up! 

 

I used white appliance touch-up paint on my mixer and it's barely noticeable, and it can be found at any hardware store, including ACE.  A bottle of that would likely be cheaper than paint from HL (a store I will never set foot in, btw).  Less is more.  Just a tiny bit of it on the tip of the applicator brush is all you'll need to make any nicks or scratches disappear. 

 

I agree with you that these older Hobart machines are much quieter and better built than the stuff that Whirlpool has been turning out for the past 30 or so years.  I really enjoy using mine, and if anyone else is present, there's no need to yell while it's operating.  I find it laughable that on cooking shows people have trouble narrating at an audible level while their shiny new KA mixer is running.


Post# 1120958 , Reply# 70   6/21/2021 at 14:55 (1,011 days old) by Louvac (M)        
That is too funny, Rp!

Funny you mention that because yes the newer ones tend to scream a little bit. I generally don't like h l either but they're the only one sometimes that carry the things you can't find at other craft stores. But I will try the appliance touch up paint. Stay tuned.

Post# 1156186 , Reply# 71   8/6/2022 at 16:23 (600 days old) by JannerK45 (California)        
Searching for replacement cord K45 1975

Hi, The cord on my mom's K45 is disintegrating and I'd like to replace it. Any ideas on where to find one? The ones I've found online say they're for K45SS. Would those work? Pics of identifying markings.
Thanks


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Post# 1156203 , Reply# 72   8/6/2022 at 19:42 (600 days old) by norgeway (mocksville n c )        
On my K45

If you take the rear cover off the date is stamped on the fiber board in the rear, mine was made in 1970.


Post# 1156230 , Reply# 73   8/7/2022 at 02:19 (600 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

Janner, it looks like your K45 was produced in September of 1975, so it's closing in on 47 years old.

 

I don't see why you couldn't use a replacement cord for a current model K45SS.  The SS just means the mixer has a solid state speed control.  I haven't looked closely at newer Kitchenaids but my only concern would be that they might all use a grounded three-prong plug now.  You can try to find a KA cord with a two-prong plug, but it would probably be new old stock on eBay or something.  Or you could use a factory replacement cord with a three-prong plug and not bother connecting the ground wire to the mixer.  If your outlet is a GFI type, you could safely use an un-grounded three-prong plug in it. 


Post# 1196461 , Reply# 74   1/2/2024 at 21:55 by Novabeau (Kirkland)        
Date sticker on my hobart k5-a

Hello all, I am trying to repair my grandma's hobart kitchenaid k5-a. It won't turn on at all according to what she said. It was working fine, she shut it off and it wouldn't start again.

What would I be needing to check to see what's up? Would the capacitor cause this? There is a orange sticker on the bottom side of the base that has 9279 on it, would this be it's build date?

If so it's a few months older than me, I know it's been around for my 44 years on this earth. She received a new one for Xmas but I'm not ready to put ol faithful out to pasture.


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Post# 1196502 , Reply# 75   1/3/2024 at 23:39 by RP2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

It could be something as simple as a detached wire.  The link below will take you to a sister site that offers for sale different types of literature for appliances large and small, including a comprehensive K5-A service manual.  The manual should also help you determine if the speed control or motor could be the source of the trouble.  If a new speed control is needed, I'm fairly certain that a solid state control (used on all K5-SS models) will fit without the need for modifications. 



CLICK HERE TO GO TO RP2813's LINK

Post# 1196559 , Reply# 76   1/5/2024 at 17:15 by Novabeau (Kirkland)        

Thanks Ralph, I just printed off the service manual for the ol tank. Curious to see if I can figure out what happend to it.

She was in the middle of making cookies for Christmas and shut it off to add some stuff and it wouldn't start back up. How much of the newer k5ss stuff like brushes ect will interchange with a k5-a? I genuinely appreciate anyone's help, thank you.


Post# 1196597 , Reply# 77   1/6/2024 at 15:22 by RP2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

Beau, I can't imagine much changing with the brushes, but I think you could find replacements even if Hobart doesn't still have them.  Those giant screws on the sides of the mixer head provide access to the brushes, but I don't know if they also function as adjusters.  The service manual will advise one way or the other.

 

I don't think anything else changed with the conversion to solid state speed control by Hobart.  It was only after Whirlpool bought KitchenAid from Hobart that certain mechanical parts changed, like from metal to plastic, but I assume the specs remained the same.  We lost our mixer expert here a few years ago, but other members may be able to provide more insight than I can.

 

If nobody else chimes in, you may want to launch a new discussion in the "Super" forum.  Really old threads like this sometimes get ignored.  This one has been resurrected a number of times over the dozen+ years since I first posted it.  It's amazing how little information is available on line about KA mixers, considering their popularity.



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