The 1981 Kenmore 200 series large capacity washer has been in my collection for about 18 months or so now, and it is featured in my photo album. This is a beautiful example of a real 1981 survivor. Having a painted top and lid, these models often badly rusted before their useful lives were over, at least on the east coast and other areas where a moist installation is common. This machine was located through an AW member in Salt Lake City who thought I would like it (he was CORRECT!).
The '81 model is a huge improvement over the 1980 200 series as the '80 did not have a selectable water level, so you got a 24-gallon fill regardless of load size. I think the '81 is also more attractive with the chromed knobs and the ebony insert on the left of the control panel.
While this machine was waiting to come home to stay, Andy / RedCarpetDrew, a great friend and the nicest guy you'll ever want to meet, called me one evening last fall with a cool find he knew I would like. He played his usual "Stump the Master" with the model number to see if I knew what it was (I did). I was jazzed that I'd have the big 1981 200, and its 1982 little cousin, the 24-inch clone version. We met in Auburn, California in early December, a gathering of myself, Andy, his wonderful wife Jacqui, and Kevin, which was documented here shortly after, with pics of me obtaining the "Little Buddy" Kenmore.
Well, the name Little Buddy has quickly given way to Gilligan, and the 29-inch may become Skipper, LOL. Dumb I know... I've also referred to the machines as Frick and Frack. Here are some pics. The first: Arriving home: Transportation via Ford![this post was last edited: 2/18/2012-13:33]

The '81 model is a huge improvement over the 1980 200 series as the '80 did not have a selectable water level, so you got a 24-gallon fill regardless of load size. I think the '81 is also more attractive with the chromed knobs and the ebony insert on the left of the control panel.
While this machine was waiting to come home to stay, Andy / RedCarpetDrew, a great friend and the nicest guy you'll ever want to meet, called me one evening last fall with a cool find he knew I would like. He played his usual "Stump the Master" with the model number to see if I knew what it was (I did). I was jazzed that I'd have the big 1981 200, and its 1982 little cousin, the 24-inch clone version. We met in Auburn, California in early December, a gathering of myself, Andy, his wonderful wife Jacqui, and Kevin, which was documented here shortly after, with pics of me obtaining the "Little Buddy" Kenmore.
Well, the name Little Buddy has quickly given way to Gilligan, and the 29-inch may become Skipper, LOL. Dumb I know... I've also referred to the machines as Frick and Frack. Here are some pics. The first: Arriving home: Transportation via Ford![this post was last edited: 2/18/2012-13:33]
