Thread Number: 78428  /  Tag: Vintage Automatic Washers
Timer went bad on my washer
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Post# 1024498   2/13/2019 at 18:26 (1,869 days old) by Kate1 (PNW)        

My Whirlpool, manufactured the sixth week of 1999, just had the timer go out.I knew it was going, two of my cycles had already stopped working and now it’s not working at all. I’ve been looking for one but have been unsuccessful since the part is discontinued (WP3953545). Now I need a working washer ASAP. Older Kenmore DD washers are a dime a dozen around here, I could just buy one of those and not worry about the timer but I’m unsure if that’s what I should do. Any washer I have will get heavy use with a family of six and I’d like whatever solution I come up with here to be fairly long term.




Post# 1024500 , Reply# 1   2/13/2019 at 18:41 (1,869 days old) by Pierreandreply4 (St-Bruno de montarville (province of quebec) canada)        
can you afford shipping cost

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can you afford to have a washer ship because if you look at this link you can find a good old fashion direct drive washer from inglish 1993 model to whirlpool brand here is the link if you went to have a look that is if you consider a replacement?




CLICK HERE TO GO TO Pierreandreply4's LINK


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Post# 1024502 , Reply# 2   2/13/2019 at 19:38 (1,869 days old) by stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
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Here is a place in Boise clearing out Speed Queen washers for a good price:


CLICK HERE TO GO TO stricklybojack's LINK on Boise Craigslist


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Post# 1024508 , Reply# 3   2/13/2019 at 20:27 (1,869 days old) by good-shepherd (New Jersey)        
Kenmore DD washers are a dime a dozen around here

Grab one of the nicer dime a dozen Kenmore DD's then decide on the long term solution without having laundry piling up.


Post# 1024512 , Reply# 4   2/13/2019 at 22:18 (1,869 days old) by Kate1 (PNW)        

I know of Speed Queen’s claims of reliability but how much truth is there in those claims? Are they easy to work on and get parts for? I’m comfortable with the direct drive offerings of WP because I feel like they’re a safe bet but the issue of not being able to find a timer has me concerned for the future going forward, even if I got the newest DD washer I can find, how much longer are parts going to be available?

I thankfully live less than a block from my husband’s parents so going up the street to run a load through their washer isn’t too trying. I want a functioning washer at home as soon as possible but I also want a good solution.


Post# 1024517 , Reply# 5   2/13/2019 at 22:49 (1,869 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        
If Time Is of the Essence . . .

rp2813's profile picture

A 2017 or older Speed Queen will be harder to find than a readily available DD Kenmore or Whirlpool, and could cost more, too.  Additionally, new and used parts for a Whirlpool/Kenmore DD will be easier to find over the long term.  WP/KM machines were huge sellers (particularly compared to SQ) and IMO they render superior results.


Post# 1024519 , Reply# 6   2/13/2019 at 23:12 (1,869 days old) by good-shepherd (New Jersey)        
how much longer are parts going to be available?

DD washer replacement parts will be available a long time, don't let that influence your decision. DD machines were in production until a few years ago and they sold in the millions.

If you can find a decent machine locally for a good price great. Post some pics of the models you're interested in before buying to get some opinions.


Post# 1024601 , Reply# 7   2/14/2019 at 10:15 (1,869 days old) by Kate1 (PNW)        

Any thoughts on this washer? It looks decent but I would have to buy it over the phone and then travel to pick it up so I can’t look at it in person before I buy it.

CLICK HERE TO GO TO Kate1's LINK on Boise Craigslist


Post# 1024602 , Reply# 8   2/14/2019 at 10:35 (1,869 days old) by stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
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That washer is about 15-18 (or more) years older than the Speed Queens I posted, and it costs 50% more.
I have the identical washer in my garage right now as that Kenmore, it’s wash basket rusted through and broke, also damaging the plastic tub. I am fixing it because I already had a new basket left over from a previous project, but otherwise wouldn’t bother finding a donor machine for the basket.
I digress, but age does matter with these machines, they no doubt CAN last years longer, but if you have a significantly newer option for less money than I would certainly take age into account.


Post# 1024603 , Reply# 9   2/14/2019 at 10:47 (1,869 days old) by Kate1 (PNW)        

Well age and condition are definitely factors that I’m concerned about. The Speed Queens you posted have me intrigued but being in Boise, the same limitations apply for having to buy it sight unseen. I really just want a reliable and long lasting machine.

Post# 1024604 , Reply# 10   2/14/2019 at 11:06 (1,869 days old) by stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
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Where in Idaho are you located?


Post# 1024605 , Reply# 11   2/14/2019 at 11:24 (1,869 days old) by coldspot66 (Plymouth, Mass)        

If you are looking for reliable and long lasting, in todays world you can't do better than a WP/Kenmore direct drive washer. The one in your post is a fully featured top of the line model. Have you checked Ebay for a timer?

Post# 1024606 , Reply# 12   2/14/2019 at 11:25 (1,869 days old) by Kate1 (PNW)        

I’m in Idaho Falls. Craigslist listings are sporadic here for appliances, so I’m looking mainly in Twin Falls, Boise, and Salt Lake City, Utah. I talked to the local appliance repair shop and they have a washer identical to my current broken one that they’d sell me for about $150 but I don’t really want to go with that option given the repair problem I’m having now.

My husband sent me this listing, they look clean but they’re definitely older.


CLICK HERE TO GO TO Kate1's LINK on Saltlakecity Craigslist


Post# 1024607 , Reply# 13   2/14/2019 at 11:29 (1,869 days old) by Pierreandreply4 (St-Bruno de montarville (province of quebec) canada)        

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kate1 the set your husband found are speed queen clones under the amana brand name this set is also direct drive but under the whirlpool brand name in your area

saltlakecity.craigslist.org/app/...


Post# 1024609 , Reply# 14   2/14/2019 at 12:00 (1,869 days old) by stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
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You can contact someone selling a set and ask if they will sell just the washer, like here:

eastidaho.craigslist.org/app/d/a...

Or buy the set and sell the dryer.

Also here is a newer direct drive Whirlpool closer to home:
(Oops, I stand corrected, it’s a Nortag, thx Martin)

eastidaho.craigslist.org/app/d/i... post was last edited: 2/14/2019-14:16]


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Post# 1024621 , Reply# 15   2/14/2019 at 12:28 (1,869 days old) by Yogitunes (New Jersey)        

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that second washer IS NOT a Whirlpool built direct drive machine....

its a Maytag sourced/rebadged Norge designed machine.....



this link may help, although not the part you need, the seller may be able to help you find the timer your looking for....just ask him a question...


CLICK HERE TO GO TO Yogitunes's LINK on eBay


Post# 1024622 , Reply# 16   2/14/2019 at 12:38 (1,869 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        

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Well, the Amanas are equivalent to Speed Queens of the same age,  but I'm pretty sure they're at least twice as old as the $220 Kenmore.  If they were made by Raytheon, you'll  be replacing the washer's belt a lot (not exactly the simplest of jobs like on a vintage Maytag) since it will be doing laundry for a family of eight.  The '97 Amana we bought new was on its third belt in nine years when we decided to replace it, and for most of those nine years ours was a two-person household.  Additionally, it was pathetic at rinsing, even with the extra rinse option that was always selected.

 

The Kenmore is a very nice machine, and for me at least, the Quiet Pak seals the deal.  With six kids running around, Quiet Pak may not matter, but if you don't want to wake the baby, it's a big plus.


Post# 1024625 , Reply# 17   2/14/2019 at 13:41 (1,869 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        
Kenmore Reply #7

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Quiet Pak on a direct-drive machine typically involves a few mastic pads glued to the inside of the cabinet to combat vibration resonance.  A few models may have a sound insulation pad inserted into the bottom (at the floor) of the base pedestal, the chance of this one having it is based on the "Limited Edition" notation for being tricked-out a little more than typical ... but that probably would be noted as Quiet Pak II.

Zooming-in on the console picture, it's an 80 Series.  I have an almost-identical 1999 Kenmore 90 Series (has four water levels instead of five, all the rest of the cycle/options are identical, the dots around the selection knobs and minutes on the timer are highlighted red.  Mine does say Quiet Pak II.  It has the affixed cabinet pads but not the base pad.  Maybe the bottom pad got lost before the machine came my way.  Not unusual that it comes loose during transport, gets lost or is tossed away.

I have a 2002/2003 WP that has the base the pad, labeled as Quiet Wash Plus.  The pad did fall out (or maybe was already loose on the floor under the machine) when we moved it.  Someone who didn't know its purpose would have tossed it to the trash.

My Catalyst is supposed to have the base pad (shown on the parts diagrams) but it was missing.  I found an Oasis or Bravos model that has a similar bottom pad (P/N WPW10361353, larger size & different shape), made one for the Catalyst using the 2003 WP as a template.


Post# 1024629 , Reply# 18   2/14/2019 at 14:15 (1,868 days old) by good-shepherd (New Jersey)        
I would have to buy it over the phone

Whatever you do don't buy something sight unseen, no matter how good it looks or sounds.

Many times I went to see washers on Craigslist that looked great in the photos and were a total POS in person. (Sort of like dating site photos).

BTW those Speed Queens are Raytheon built machines before Alliance took over SQ and they have issues.



Post# 1024630 , Reply# 19   2/14/2019 at 14:19 (1,868 days old) by stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
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I absolutely agree to stay away from the AmanaQueens. If you buy older units go Direct Drive Whirlpool/Kenmore et al.

Here is a Direct Drive in Salt Lake badged as Admiral:
saltlakecity.craigslist.org/app/...


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Post# 1024633 , Reply# 20   2/14/2019 at 14:41 (1,868 days old) by good-shepherd (New Jersey)        

This place has some interesting genuine DD machines new and vintage,
and they offer delivery and decent warranty for whatever it's worth

boise.craigslist.org/ppd/d/nampa...

Vintage Kenmore washer looks clean:

boise.craigslist.org/ppd/d/sale-...

Nice vintage Kenmore set:
boise.craigslist.org/ppd/d/lower...

boise.craigslist.org/ppd/d/sale-...


Post# 1024634 , Reply# 21   2/14/2019 at 14:44 (1,868 days old) by good-shepherd (New Jersey)        
Kenmore washer

Here is that Kenmore washer:

boise.craigslist.org/ppd/d/nampa...


Post# 1024639 , Reply# 22   2/14/2019 at 16:31 (1,868 days old) by Kate1 (PNW)        

Well maybe what I’ll do is make a trip to Boise to go to some of these used appliance shops in person. From the Craigslist ads I’m finding, there seem to be quite a few and they look to have decent offerings. The local appliance shop focuses mainly on repairs and has a very limited inventory at any given time. We go down to Salt Lake pretty frequently too and there seems to be a few shops to choose from there too, we were probably going to go there soon anyway to go to IKEA. It definitely seems like a DD Kenmore or Whirlpool will be my best choice. If transporting a washer 300 or so miles, how best should I do that? I know a washer will fit in my Honda Odyssey with the seats folded down but possibly not upright (I’d need to check). My dad has a pickup I can use but the weather isn’t great this time of year and there would be little more than a tarp covering the washer for the trip.

Post# 1024641 , Reply# 23   2/14/2019 at 16:42 (1,868 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

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Laying down won't cause damage but there may be water leakage unless an effort has been made to completely drain it by taking off the outer cabinet and removing hoses from the pump .... or prop it up on the lid end with a block of wood or a thick roll of blankets or towels so it's not laying completely flat.


Post# 1024644 , Reply# 24   2/14/2019 at 17:07 (1,868 days old) by Kate1 (PNW)        

Is there anything I should look out for when looking at washers in person? Any red flags or warning signs? And, is there anything I should absolutely stay away from or something that if I find, I should absolutely jump on?

Post# 1024646 , Reply# 25   2/14/2019 at 17:38 (1,868 days old) by goatfarmer (South Bend, home of Champions)        

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Find one of those dime a dozen working Kenmores. Change the console and wiring with your WP.


Post# 1024648 , Reply# 26   2/14/2019 at 18:00 (1,868 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

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Note the model and serial number of any machine you're considering.  Serial numbers are coded for the manufacture date ... year and week or year and month.  Model numbers are typically coded for the year of market introduction.  You can get a translation at online sites such as www.appliance411.com/service/date....  Serial number coding may be on a repeating cycle such as 12 years or 20 years so the model number year is needed to target it.


Post# 1024650 , Reply# 27   2/14/2019 at 18:12 (1,868 days old) by good-shepherd (New Jersey)        
should look out for when looking at washers in person?

For starters, it helps a lot if you can identify a real DD washer, approximate age, model and features. That takes time to learn so I'd post pics of the machines you have in mind first, then if they check out ok in person bargain hard and haul it home.
You probably want/need a super capacity machine so you should know how to spot one of those as well.

When a good candidate is identified I would be looking out for rust, dents, chips, scratches, signs of excessive wear and tear and other abuse.

Overall cleanliness is a big one too. Soap scum and other crud in and around the tub is a good indication the machine was not not well cared for and/or saw lots of cold water washes.


Post# 1024665 , Reply# 28   2/14/2019 at 21:55 (1,868 days old) by combo52 (50 Year Repair Tech Beltsville,Md)        
The SQ in Reply # 2

combo52's profile picture

Is a real Alliance SQ and looks like a great buy, check the serial # to tell the age  The first two digits are the year, next two the month, example 1506 is June of 2015.

 

I bet these SQs are only a few years old, SQ still uses the older console design on commercial models.

 

John L.


Post# 1024681 , Reply# 29   2/15/2019 at 07:22 (1,868 days old) by Kate1 (PNW)        

Would a newer, commercial SQ be a good solution for everything I want out of a washer? Are there any known issues with them?

Post# 1024688 , Reply# 30   2/15/2019 at 10:16 (1,868 days old) by combo52 (50 Year Repair Tech Beltsville,Md)        

combo52's profile picture
A Newer commercial SQ would be a great choice for heavy use, such a washer will easily do 3-5 loads a day for more than 10 years with almost no problems or last 25 years at around 10 loads per week.

John L.



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