Is it time to replace my 40-year-old GE Filter-Flo washer?

[boblawblog]

It's at my parents' place, which is far from me, making it challenging to address issues. My parents can't troubleshoot it themselves.

The washer leaks onto the floor, primarily from the hole in the air inlet gap. It also leaks in other areas, especially when using cold water. I tried replacing the water inlet valve but couldn't remove the existing one perhaps there is corrision on the wire harness connectors?

One suspension mount has disconnected from the base, causing a thumping during the basket rotation. There's also a new grinding noise during the spin cycle for a few minutes.

I could hire a technician for at least $250, assuming they can work with older machines, or buy a new one for $500-$600. My parents prefer a new machine, as they think it's not worth investing in the old one. I'm nostalgic for the old machine due to its build quality and would like professional opinions.

 

[ryner1988]

If it's now your parents' machine, better do what the parents want. Get them a machine close to it that they'd likely be comfortable with, like the Speed Queen TC5 or Maytag Commercial. This is an unpopular opinion here but a basic Whirlpool top loader with the dual action agitator wouldn't be a bad choice either. They're cheap, and they wash well. The tradeoff of that though is that they aren't known to last long. I have one myself though and like it just fine.

Ryne

 

[combo52]

Probably time to replace

It’s probably time for a new washer. I would agree With Ryne Suggestion, especially if your parents are still doing their own laundry at nearly 100 years of age.

Normally, I would only recommend the front loading washer for a purchase today because of better performance efficiency. If somebody else is doing their laundry for them, that might be the better way to go

John.

 

[repairguy]

I agree that it’s time to be replaced for dependability reasons. You can keep it for yourself for nostalgic reasons but they need a dependable machine at this point.

 

[Chetlaham]

Maybe its the angle of the pic, but to the right it looks like the neutral wire is hanging on by a few strands of copper.

 

 

I'd recommend Speed Queen front load or Speed Queen TC5 for a no nonsense easy to use wash system.  

 

[boblawblog]

Thank you for your advice! Have an awesome weekend!