Hi Rob.
If you do get a hotpoint toploader, heed my warnings on the very first posting on this thread! They are a handful! Its amazing how that difference in size and the protruding programmer facia, makes them a different ball game in the movement and storage stakes.
Obviously you are in the better position, than me and Rob, in that you have permanent plumbing so, once you actually get the machine to your house, you should be able to plug and play.
Go for it!
Cheers
Paul
p.s....
there are a couple of early 1500/01s out there in safe hands.
I know of a 1502.
Keith has a 1504.
Mark has a Liberator 1509.
Me and rob have a New Gen.
Mike has a Next Gen.
That leaves models 1507, the box 1508 and the silver facia 15690 and brown facia 15790/792 not represented in the ranks of preserved machines. Will keep my eyes peeled for you!