Fix Or Replace Old Washer?

[rusty bumper]

Hi all,

My 14 year old belt-driven Maytag top-loading washing machine suffered a major breakdown (transmission / bearings or both), and I am going to have to fix this model (expensive 500.00), or replace it with a newer machine. Are the top-loading HE models worth a hoot? I hear horror stories about these units not getting heavy loads clean (towels, jeans, etc.), being rough on clothes, having major breakdowns after just a year or two of service, etc.

I am considering the machines below...

http://www.lowes.com/pd_459139-46-MVWC360AW_0__?productId=4573208

http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?partNumber=66876-46-WTW4800XQ&langId=-1&storeId=10151&productId=3328452&catalogId=10051&cmRelshp=rel&rel=nofollow&cId=PDIO1

http://www.sears.com/kenmore-3.6-cu-ft-high-efficiency-top-load/p-02621302000P?s_tnt=46261:0:0&executed=true&PDP_REDIRECT=false

Would appreciate any and all feedback.

[Mr Miyagi]

Re: Fix Or Replace Old Washer?

why not a front load HE? Seems to be the new normal..

[rusty bumper]

Re: Fix Or Replace Old Washer?

why not a front load HE? Seems to be the new normal..

Well, we thought about that, but I presume one would have to spend about $800.00 to $1,000.00 to buy a decent unit. Don't front loaders vibrate more than top loaders on wooden flooring?

In the mean time, I managed to disassemble my old washer and remove the transmission and upper bearings...

http://www.do-it-yourself-washing-machine-and-dryer-repair-help.com/transmission-replacing-Maytagwasher.html

I do know that the upper bearing is bad. I just need to examine the transmission and see if it works or not. I think I can accomplish this be reinstalling the pulley and working it in both directions.

[goldenlight]

Replace with front loader. Wash cloths way better then top loader. Use far less water

[imacarnut]

Re: Fix Or Replace Old Washer?

I would buy a new washer. They are more energy efficient, use less soap, and less water as well. You'll save money in the long run.

[mswerb]

Re: Fix Or Replace Old Washer?

We had the same issue a while back. We have a local appliance repair shop we use for stuff like this and when they tell you that is cheaper to replace it than to have it fixed it becomes a no brainer.

[rusty bumper]

Re: Fix Or Replace Old Washer?

I've decide to repair the washer myself.

I purchased parts with a one year unconditional return warranty, so if the repair does not hold, I can get my money back. The transmission is in good shape. All I need is a tub bearing and related parts. The total comes to about $150.00.

Wish me well.

[rusty bumper]

Re: Fix Or Replace Old Washer?

I think this report sums up my feelings about HE washers...

How Washington Ruined Your Washing Machine

Every appliance repairman, parts place, etc. that I know of dislikes the new standards.