(For Imperial Forum Only)

New Project - New Venture

Hello all.   

Just a couple of days ago, I was chilling out in the garden enjoying the sun while my brain was doing a 100 mph. Not sure why or where it came from, but an idea was looming. Impossible to block it out, I had to act on it and this little idea of mine is now born.  

I don't want to revile too much at the moment, but hopefully if this all goes to plan, this will be great “fun” for us all! Fingers crossed everyone will enjoy it. But for now my mouth is zipped.

Like always, when starting a new project, its going to take some time, preparation & planning. With out making it complicated for myself, I'm currently in the process of collecting information on UK & European Washing Machines & Top Loaders, from the period of 1950s/1990s.

It is essential I do this first before I continue on to the next task. If its ok by you all, I’m going to need a little extra help in order to fill in the gaps. I’ve only come up with 10 machines so far. 

The information I’m collecting for the database, will go like this: 

Name Of Machine

Model Number

Country

Number Of Programmes

Max. RPM

Min. RPM (yet to decide)

Wash Capacity (kg)

Water consumption (lt)

Electricity Rating(kW) Can some one explain this bit for me? Is this to do with the heating element? 

Height (cm)

Width (cm)

Depth (cm)

Here’s an example of the database (see pic below).

As you can see, I’ve made a head start. I took the opportunity by collecting the information from brochures which some of you have kindly shared on pervious threads. I hope you don’t mind? 

Each machine will have a picture attached (essential for stage two of the project)

I’m going to have to exclude, spin dryers/twin tubs and tumble dryers for the time being. Hopefully you’ll understand why, once all is reviled. I know I have set myself a mammoth task, lol it's not like I haven't done anything like this before, ie The Laundry Lab. Obviously I will be doing this in my free time, due to other commitments, which this project will take at least a few months. But I’m being optimistic and I have faith.

During the process of all this, if its ok by you all, I will be asking  and reposting pictures for the specifications of your fabulous machines. It will be good for others to learn or refresh there memories. 

I'm really sorry If I'm asking for too much and I don't mean to be a pain in the neck, but its for a good cause I assure you. Any problems please let me know.

Thanks all 

Hass.

PS. I did forget to mention if you want to include some of your personal collection into the project, ie give me a hand on providing the following information I would be most grateful :)

Hello Tom, thanks for sharing. I shall add the following info to the database. The model is defiantly a FL haha but can’t see the numbers. As it shows on the bottom of the powder dispenser . I’ll have to some investigating see if there is anything about.

My Mini Update.
So far I have come up with 27 washing machines (more to add today) after spending half the night searching on the Aw.org forums. 1000s and 1000s of threads later, its slowly beginning to take shape. I’ve been doing a lot of learning and reading along the way, however a lot of missing gaps to fill. Gosh there are some beautiful machines out there, which puts me to shame, makes me want to start a collection myself now. Some legendary work boys!

hehe thanks Tom ;)

Aww Paul, hehe please don't think I was competing with you. Wasn't trying to steal your lime light of your expertise. I’m impressed and blown away by the mass work you have done so far. Even if it is a ‘work in progress’. Thanks for posting your database Paul, I really do appreciate it. It will help me fill out the key parts, in order to complete stage one.

Like I said in my earlier posts, I’m starting small at the moment, even though its, tempting to pursuit further. Though along the way I’ve had to change a few things. For example, the overall Water consumptions for each machine, is kind of tricky to find (unless I’m wrong here) also in two minds weather I should keep the kW? But for the course of this project, the numbers are my main priority

Of course Paul, I won’t be shy on e-mailing you. Thanks for your input Paul ;)

Maybe its worth doing the database after all, its good for keeping it for future reference. Here’s what I have done so far bare in mind all is ‘work in progress’

the next part...