A direct-drive machine can run with a "slipping" neutral drain mechanism without much adverse effect. Off-balance risk is increased to some degree if the user tends to run too high of a water level for the load size ... the items will float loosely and may bunch together until the whole mess of water and clothes gets up to speed and the water level drops so the items make contact with the rotating basket.
Keep a belt drive Kenmore running, I am, I didnt like that thrashing short stroke from the git go, i know a man who worked at sears in the 80s, when the direct drives came out, he bought one of the last TOL belt drives on the floor and its still setting, in the box brand new in his basement!!Now that I would love to have!!
"only does it on the wash drain and not the rinse drain...maybe something is starting to go out on it?"
Is the washer in a cold location? Cold gearcase oil can cause the neutral drain mechanism to malfunction. Whirlpool had a bulletin on this. Doesn't do it in rinse because oil has warmed up by that time? Someone mentioned the clutch but clutch has nothing to do with neutral drain.
Its setting on a pallet in his basement!! I tried everything to get him to sell it, not for sale!! he said when the one he is using wears out, he is going to use it, I think the one he is using is a 84 or 85 model.
There are NO bad ones. These are the most reliable TL washer design EVER! Don't believe the "Shredmore myth" these machines clean clothing well and are no more dangerous to fine fabrics than any other TL.
My current daily driver is a 1996 DD WP that has never needed a repair outside of agitator dogs which is a $5 and 10 minute repair.
WK78
Are not only the most produced top loading washer in US history but also one of the best all-around machines in durability and performance.
As a SQ dealer I feel that the SQ TL machines are a good value and if you still want a new traditional TL washer it is the only real choice, but a Super Capacity WP, KM or KA DD washer with a dual-action agitator is a much better washer that the SQ any day.
The next best washer to a DD would be a WP built Belt Drive machine however the DD is much more durable, longer lasting and easier to repair.
Are not only the most produced top loading washer in US history but also one of the best all-around machines in durability and performance.
As a SQ dealer I feel that the SQ TL machines are a good value and if you still want a new traditional TL washer it is the only real choice, but a Super Capacity WP, KM or KA DD washer with a dual-action agitator is a much better washer that the SQ any day.
The next best washer to a DD would be a WP built Belt Drive machine however the DD is much more durable, longer lasting and easier to repair.
I bought a new set of fairly TOL Kenmores in 2001...I used that washer 3 days and took the set back!! I personally wouldnt trade 1 good belt drive for all the direct drives ever built.