Forgotten SQ: Deal, or no Deal?

[swestoyz]

Guys (and gals),

I've posted this on the Super, because I am unsure of the age of this Speed Queen set. Besides the plethora of other Generous Motors goodies that this build possesses, this wonderful building hides this Speed Queen set on the once former show room floor of this old Ford dealership - turned storage facility for the neighboring Chevy/Olds dealership. I took this shot from outside the door earlier this evening, but have seen the Stainless Steel tub in person on an previous walk through of the place. Both machines were in wonderful shape, and bear a faded for sale sign, that lost its grip within the last decade or two.

Would this set be worth picking up? After seeing Robert's Speed Queen in action, I thought it would be fun to have one around, until a vintage machine came up. So - Deal, or no Deal?

Ben

 

[westytoploader]

Hi Ben, judging by the control panel they appear to be early perforated-tub SQs, probably from the early-80's, or one of the last solid-tub SQs with the reversing-motor design. Regardless, this set is definitely worth saving; Greg mentioned earlier about how well-made and easy to service the early perforated-tub machines were.

From what I remember using a similar coin-operated machine, they are very fun to watch. The 4-vane agitator has strong action and surprisingly good turnover, and the pump makes quick work of that water during spin-drain. They also seemed to have a slower stroke than their solid-tub predecessors.

--Austin

 

[swestoyz]

Hey Austin, thanks for reminding me. This baby was a solid tub machine. If I got it - I could use one of those Speed Queen filters I have.... hehehe

 

[frontaloadotmy]

bad Ben BAD

those look <1985/86 to me.

 

[westytoploader]

If it's a solid tub, I'd say go get it and put that SQ filter to good use!

Last November I saw a similar SQ set on Craigslist in Dallas in really nice shape; they wanted $50 for both! I could tell it was a solid tub by the absence of a water level knob. I expressed interest but apparently some "mamacita" showed up at their door before I could even make a move...figures! At least this one wasn't a solenoid-style machine or I would have been even more angry.

I definitely prefer solid-tub machines over those with perforated tubs, I mean, who doesn't like to watch a good SQ or Frigidaire water throw! Anything with a solid tub has a space in the Studio here...LOL.

--Austin