The only time consumer reports did an extensive testing on combos was the 1960 report, the gas whirlpools and the lady Kenmore that was hooked to 50 Amp line were top rated because they had the fastest total cycle time and did a great job overall.

I have a little doubt that the 58 DM picture of the day machine would have been top rated had it still been made.

In 1959 Philco Bendix downsized the machine greatly and the tub was too small to do a decent job It left the clothing to wrinkled they also made models that Tom mentioned that were slower at drying.

Overall the only really great combos made in the US were the original 36 inch Bendix machines and the 29 inch Kenmore and whirlpool machines built in 1961-1971.

Both Maytag and Westinghouse took back combos that caused owners problems and offered separate W&D pairs in exchange, neither company actually recalled the machines.

John L