Back at it with a Dexter

[vacuumguy99]

Well I just finished the kenmore and now a rebuilt dexter by philco twin tub showed up just a few minutes from my house. Ive looked at some other dexter threads and couldn't figure out if this was a pump drain or gravity drain, i think its gravity, and whether or not $225 was a reasonable price for a completely rebuilt unit and most importantly are these simple dependable machines or should i pass it up? Thanks all!

 

[akronman]

Well

They are RARE, grab it now if you like it.

 

[mickeyd]

It's definately a pump model; that's what those two valve switches in the middle are for. Not sure that the Quick Twin ever came with a gravity drain. Two tubs, two hoses, would have gotten a little crazy. The valves are the weak spot on these machines, but I'm sure you'll make them purr. Forgot what a nice long hose these unusual and unique machines sported.

Get more details on what the rebuild actually entailed. The body is in decent shape, and although 225 leans toward the steep side, these machines are tons O' fun; so if you've got the scratch available and are satisfied with his "rebuild," I would recommend buying it.

 

[vacuumguy99]

I was told the gear box has been cleaned up, the motor has been gone over, the drain hose has been changed, everything has been cleaned and painted. And he said the wringer works so it sounds like it's a good unit... On paper at least. I'll probably get it if it's what he says it is,looks pretty nice so let's hope it works out

 

[vacuumguy99]

And the only reason I asked if it was gravity drain is because it doesn't have the third dial above the two valve dials and it was my understanding that the third dial controlled the pump and the two dials like this one has was a valve for each tub.

 

[golittlesport]

test it for yourself

Since the machine is close by, if it was me I would ask to do a water test and make sure the machine agitates, pumps and wrings. Looks nice and I bet a lot of fun to use. Good luck!

 

[mickeyd]

"The third dial controls the pump" !!!!!

You are so right. What a great eye you have for this. How did I miss that when I enjoyed a Quick Twin for a few years back in the 90's. Maybe the gooseneck fooled me because the drain hose for a gravity draining machine normally lacks a goodeneck; indeed, you said it's a new hose.

This is really interesting, and makes perfect sense, because every wringer brand made an economy model without a pump. And now you've found the Philco Quick Twin version--Halleluia!

 

[mickeyd]

"Most importantly are these simple dependable machines&#

For sure, and absolutely! That is why, though rare, they turn up in working order. The two agitators clacking in tandem is very fun to watch and hear.

 

[dryclean1]

looking for this model.....

I love that large crown on the front,would love to get this model!!! Bill

 

[dryclean1]

if its available let me know

this is one of the most gorgeous machines I have ever seen. there are a few models that were similar. One with pink washtubbs,with the same awesome crown on the front. if it or one like it comes up someone let me know.thanks Bill

 

[vacuumguy99]

I'm going to look at it!!!!!

Can't wait to see it purr,it will probably be home at this time tomorrow!!!

 

[abcomatic]

I have one from the 50's. Mine has 2 drain hoses, one for each control and they don't have pumps, just gravity. One thing to think about is that you dry the machine off after use on the section between the 2 tubs. Water will lay there and eventually rust there. They are very dependable and you may find that one agitator moves a bit faster than the other one. I wash in one and rinse in the other. Have fun with this machine. Gary

 

[vacuumguy99]

Well, it wasnt ment to be..

the valves leaked,the sticker was starting to peel and the rollers where shot. Does this machine sound easily salvageable or would this put my wallet threw the.... wringer... :-D

 

[launderess]

NOS Wringer Rollers Are Out There.

You may have to be patient and diligent in your search, but have seen many turn up over the years totally NOS.

As for the other parts such as the valves those may be a tougher job to find. I *MAY* be the things have dried out from washing sitting unused. A period of rehydration *may* cure that problem. If not you're going to have to source parts either NOS or from a working machine. Happily there are plenty of these Bendix/Philco units around, though of course when you need/want one it won't be in your area.

If keen for a product and up for a challenge I'd offer the seller a few bits for his troubles and take the unit. If all things considered everything else is in working order (motor, transmission, etc...) you never know what you can do until you try.

 

[vacuumguy99]

Well I found another twin tub this one only has 2 problems, it's got a good bit of surface rust mostly on the white skirt which should be an easy enough fix but the right side washer control got hit and is between the 5 and 6 o'clock position and he said he can't get that tub to stop agitating. Does this sound like an easy fix? I'm not familiar with the gearbox design of these machines and if I find out it is likely a few hour project it probably will follow me home!