1980 Portable GE Dishwasher caster question

[ken]

So I picked up a 1980 GE "convertible" DW last fall that had been installed to use in place. I'm wanting to convert to a portable and need casters. They're still available at $32.00 each. I don't think I'm interested in paying that kind of money.

Can someone suggest an alternative to the factory casters? What size would be correct? Would all four have originally been swivel type?

Thanks
Ken

 

[delaneymeegan]

 

 

$32 sounds like typical GE pricing of standard hardware items.

 

If it were me(and actually I'm doing the same thing for a Kenmore portable dryer what came without casters), I'd turn this on its side and see what the mounting surface is, then buy some typical wheels from a hardware store.

 

I'd get two straight, non-pivoting, wheels, and two pivoting of the same diameter.  Put the pivoting on the front of the machine. 

 

The original wheels were probably a 2" at most, but it wouldn't hurt to go with a 3"

 

[ken]

The $32.00 price was from easyapplianceparts.com which I usually find to have the best prices.

From the parts diagram I'm thinking the originals would have been something like these I found at Lowes. The sleeve could be removed. $4.97 a pair. Four are rated to hold 220 pounds.

 

[turquoisedude]

Ken, check McMaster-Carr.  Shipping won't be a problem for you 'cause you're already in the US.  

 

[appnut]

this is actually a Hotpoint in GE's brand label. 

 

[toploader55]

Good call Bob.

That Top Rack is totally Hotpoint. Although it could be a close runner up to the KitchenAid Custom Series Top Rack.

 

[Chetlaham]

Whooa!

Never seen a Hotpoint GE in the wild. Whats the story behind them?

 

[askolover]

those casters in reply #2 are what came on my Maytag originally before it was made built in...wish I'd kept them 'cause I'm changing it back to a portable again.

 

[delaneymeegan]

 

 

 

 

Ken, I hope those casters work for you.  I hope the spindle is the same size as the holes that are already on the bottom. It would be the easiest option.  No drilling or screws necessary. 

 

[ken]

I checked out McMaster-Carr like Paul suggested. They have a large selection at very reasonable prices. I need to check the bottom of the DW to see exactly what's needed as far as stem diameter and length.