Just when I thought there were no more here..

[captainmoody]

I came across a very nasty old used appliance shop in Detroit today, and thought I would see what they had. Of course, they had all the 1995 and newer usual beat up stuff for high prices. (nothing new!)I was getting ready to leave, and an older gent stepped right in front of me (just about scared the crap out of me too, as I didn't see him coming!) He asked me what I was looking for, and I said he most likely had nothing, as I was looking for older GM Frigidaire stuff. He then said that he "had something for everyone" and proceeded to lead me to the building next door. Well, when we got in there it was dark and I saw nothing but old stoves, and was beginning to think he was nuts. But sure as heck, he pointed to a Frigidaire WC-6 in a corner! It was as clean as could be, and only missing the lint filter! We agreed on a price and loaded it up. When I finished paying him he said, "see, that one was 'waitin for 'ya"! He was a little odd at best, but good at heart and quite helpful. This particular unit was brought over to his location from a huge warehouse where he has others!! He keeps at least one or two oldies at the shop and actually sells them on occasion to people like me. Hmmm.. Must be a few other collectors in my area! I wanted to see the warehouse in the city, but it's in a closed factory in a real bad area, and will have to wait until he is able to go there during the day.
Now the suspense is going to drive me crazy!!

 

[captainmoody]

Inside view.

 

[northwesty]

Looks to be in very good shape

Congratulations!

 

[captainmoody]

Now that I am looking at both WC-6 washers side by side, I am beginning to think someone may have switched lids on the Harvest gold one I got a couple months ago. The wires for the lid switch were poorly spliced and taped and the switch is missing. The other odd thing is the lid on it has no provision for a switch on the hinge.(like the one I got today). Hmmm...Am I the victim of some funny business? How can I tell if the washer was supposed to come with a window lid originally?

 

[mickeyd]

Lucky you, Captain

All the Frigidaires we had around here and I can't find a one anywhere.
What I wouldn't give for a Frigidaire.
That poppy is mint.
You're so lucky.
Good for you, Dude.

 

[trainguy]

Wonderful Windows

Hi Dwight,

I've had at least half a dozen Crown models in all colors - they all came with window lids. If you check out the instruction on your non-window lid, they probably don't match up exactly with the functions of the knobs on the console.

BTW - I do have a used bed of nails lint filter if you want it.

Rich

 

[swestoyz]

Mmmm, Poppy Delight! That is one clean looking machine - I just love that feeling you felt when you saw those machines in the backroom! It is probably the most addicting feeling in this hobby - enjoy your wonderful GM finds!!

Ben

BTW - I can't wait either to see what is in the warehouse!

 

[captainmoody]

Well, the idea I have is not to hoard all the vintage machines I can find, but instead hopefully find more oldies that people here on this forum may want. When I post a new find, and if it is something you really have been looking for, contact me! There is always some model I am looking for, and most of the time will trade (remember the 1959 Kenmore set) My interests primarily are in the 1965-1977 models.
I think collecting should be fun and not a major expense, there are some greedy people out there that once they find out you are interested in something, the price goes up!
My other major gripe is with collectors that "switch" parts on something before you get it to make one of their units better.
I also believe an appliance should be restored to the exact way it was when it left the factory with the same color, options and factory replacement parts.(ok, enough of my rant!)
Here are some goodies I am looking for, GE Filter-Flo Americana series washer, Norge or Wards washer from the early 70's and a Maytag washer to go with my 906 dryer
Well anyhow, if I can get more stuff from this guy or even some pictures I will be sure to post!

 

[kennywhy]

Where is the old factory, and when can you check it out!?

Hi Dwight.
Congratulations on the Frigidaire finds. Could you possibly share where this old appliance shop or the factory is located? At least the general area. I'm curious. I thought I'd been to them all, at least on the west side of Detroit. It's only the WI-57 Frigidaire tower washer I'm intested in finding. Maybe he's got one. I'm not out to grab and/or beat you to anything else.
If you care to, please let me know when you're going to meet this guy again, and check out that old warehouse. I live in the city, and I'm not easily intimidated. Remember, there's strength in numbers, so if you want someone else going with you, please let me know. I'll be happy to help.
Thanks,
Ken ([email protected]) 313-869-8058

 

[pdub]

Wow Dwight,

Incredible finds there. I'm so happy another poppy has been discovered and saved. I hope you can find a matching dryer for it too. They are wonderful machines that bring me much pleasure and good memories and hope they do the same for you. Enjoy!

Patrick

 

[mayken4now]

Wonderful machine Dwight. Good find and certainly worth being startled and worth the wait.

Steve

 

[toggleswitch]

Great catch!
What a find!

 

[captainmoody]

Thanks Steve,Patrick and Ken! so poppy is a hard to find color on these? I guess that's all the more reason to keep this one in excellent shape! Darn! Now I am going to have to try to find a matching dryer!

 

[captainmoody]

Found some more info today. One of the guys that works at the shop, told me the appliances are stored in a rented section of the old Packard plant and they purchase them there. Basically, I found out they get them from a wholesaler that gets them from stores that deliver new appliances and haul away the old!
Now I need to find out who this person is and if they will sell to an individual.
Anyone in the Detroit area want to help? Somehow we will have to find who takes in all the washers/dryers for the big companies, Any ideas?

 

[veg-o-matic]

Dwight, you are so hooked!

How many TVs are you going to have to get rid of to make room for all the incoming washers?

veg

 

[captainmoody]

Well.. I have been giving away sets from my collection lately, six as a matter of fact last weekend. I am only keeping the hard to find remote control ones and several round tube color sets.
My intent is to have one wall of vintage washers/dryers in the basement. Oh, and don't forget my small Hoover collection!
By the time I finish, it will look like a late 60's early 70's tv/appliance store complete with signs!
I always wanted an appliance/tv store (had a tv shop until 1990) and guess this is why the basement looks like it does!

 

[kennywhy]

Yes

"Anyone in the Detroit area want to help?"
Yes, YES, and YES!

As I said, please contact me if you'd like some help.
I have a friend with a truck, if you find anything else.
Thanks,
Ken

 

[captainmoody]

I tried contacting you earlier, will try again tonight. Let's hope something can be found on this wholesaler!

 

[lederstiefel1]

old appliances

Congratulations from me too!
You are so lucky! I always dream of something like that happen to me! It's like dreaming of a fairy-tale to become true! But that wouldn't, I guess! Germans throw all old stuff away, as they want something "new and modern" - especially when it comes to store-keepers - old stuff costs them just money and doesn't bring any in! And nobody is looking for old stuff here as even people living from the state are not aloud to buy used washers, etc. because of the lack of waranty! So even these people get brand new machines! That's why the german state meanwhile is nearly bankrupt! lol
Only way to find old stuff here is Ebay, as people want to get rid of all old stuff when grandma dies or they sell the house of old aunty - and maybe, they think, there is a loony out there to even pay for that old stuff so they have no trouble with bringing it to the garbage!
Ralf

 

[veg-o-matic]

Dwight, don't forget that you'll need a "Wall of Smalls", too!

Wasn't there one in the appliance shop in That Thing You Do?

Toasters, blenders, mixers...another whole new world for you!

veg