Hunting for a good vintage washer

[needawasher]

I have a newer Maytag top-load that I don't love - it does OK (granted it doesn't always get the clothes clean), but it thinks too much for my liking and I have to baby-sit it to make sure it fills enough, or that it actually gets the soap out.

I'm looking for a top-load machine that has a large load capacity, has a delicate or hand-wash like cycle and that will wash a load in under an hour. My grandmother had a Norge, Frigidaire and a Maytag - all pre 1980. All were good and never really had any problems. I used her Frigidaire and Maytag myself and liked both. Based on what I've been reading, Maytags from the late 70s might be my best bet. Ideally I'd like to have one that is between 3.5cu ft and 4.0 cu ft, as my current one is 4.2. However, that might be asking a bit much.

Anyone have thoughts/suggestions on where to look? I'm on the east coast and not having much luck. I don't want something I have to put a lot of work into, but don't mind doing minor repairs...

Is there anything I should beware of while shopping?

 

[yogitunes]

in reality, how much of that 4.2 is actual usable capacity?....and could it actually clean/wash that size of load?

your best bet is a Whirlpool/Kenmore version of a Direct Drive washer.....prefer one like this with a Speed Control.....

plenty of options to wash just about anything in roughly under 40 minutes a load...

easy to work on, plus parts are still plentiful if needed.....

https://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/app/d/kenmore-top-load-washer-for-sale-in/6825488029.html

 

[yogitunes]

given a choice I would go with something like this....

basic cycles is all you need, gentle and effective at washing and rinsing, and the high speed final spin is very effective...

simple normal cycle, warm wash/cold rinse for just about everything you could possible wash.....

most will offer a gentle/handwash and/or PermPress cycle as well...

and YES, it will hold a king size quilt...

https://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/app/d/alexandria-stackable-washer-and-dryer/6843750123.html

 

[63kenmore]

I have the Kenmore top loader in the first picture. I believe it’s a 1992 model that I bought at a used appliance store 3 years ago. This is a VERY good machine, it can hold two blankets easily at the same time and does a good job of getting the soap out. I like the fact that it not only has a delicate cycle, but it has a hand wash cycle that I use for my sweaters and a second rinse cycle. I wanted a washer that I could fill the water all the way to the top and had an agitator so it would actually clean the clothes instead of just sloshing them around in soap and a dab of water. In the last 15 years I have had two newer sets of front loaders and a brand new stackable full size unit that the transmission failed after 2 months of use. This one is a keeper.

 

[kenmore58]

I purchased my Kenmore set brand new in 1993 when I purchased my home. Except for a minor service call on my dryer, both machines have and continue to serve me well.

Of all the machines I've owned or used over the years, I find these Kenmores to be the most reliable. I'm only hoping that they last me until I sell the house or die, whichever comes first!

Ron

 

[goatfarmer]

Check with John, he's in Virginia.

https://www.automaticwasher.org/cgi-bin/TD/TD-PROFILE_DISPLAY.cgi?display=Combo52

 

[norgeway]

Belt drive

Whirlpool or Kenmore or GE Filter Flo..

 

[brainardcooper]

"Frigidaire"

I have had the same set as Yogitunes endorses for almost 15 years. Never a problem. Works well. I would like to keep this set for the remainder of my time on earth. Guess I better start looking for spare parts in case it ever breaks down!