Kenmore Dryer Dilemma

[classiccaprice]

So my 1968 Kenmore 800 original motor has died... It will run, but for whatever reason it won't initialize the switch to turn on the heat. From what I understand these can not be rebuilt.

Finances are relatively tight right now and I've found an almost free early 80s kenmore locally that needs a new door switch, but otherwise works perfectly. I originally planned to get the dryer and grab a few parts and send the rest to scrap. I always liked those machines, but I don't have the space and it isn't quite my style. However, it has been suggested that I fix the dryer and sell it for 75 or 100 and buy a new motor for the 800.

So, my question is what would you do... fix and sell or part and scrap?

 

[akronman]

Kenmore dryers

There are millions of them out there. I say fix and sell the 80's model. Take your profit and get a replacement or brand new motor for the 1968. it's more classic and what you've had in use. I personally have found 2 Whirlpool/Kenmore dryer motors for around $20 each on Craigslist.

 

[classiccaprice]

Thanks. To clarify, I'm not planning on getting rid of the 68 in either scenereo. I was either going to take the motor from the 80s model or fix it and buy a new one. I've not had great luck finding a cheap motor locally. The cheapest was $75 and the most expensive $125.

 

[alr2903]

I am glad you are keeping your 1968.  Especially since it is the one you are accustomed to using.  Routine is important to me.

 

[classiccaprice]

Question... What is worth saving off the 80s model, if I decide to scrap it? Supposedly it works.

 

[combo52]

Dryer Motors

Hi Will, in the time you have talked about this you could have already taken the motor out of the 80s dryer and installed it in the 68 dryer, LOL.

Where do you have the time to go buy the DS for the newer dryer, clean it up, test it, advertise it, be around to meet someone that wants to buy it, etc, etc.

It is also easier to use the motor from an 80s dryer in your dryer than it is to install a brand motor in the 68 dryer, as when you install a new motor in an older dryer you have to modify the wiring connections at the motor to fit the new motors centrifugal switch. Also keep in mind in either case you need to use the newer style drive belt from the 80s dryer and if you install a NEW motor in the 68 you need to buy a new belt as well to go with the motor pulley on the new motor.

 

[classiccaprice]

Lol. Thanks for the advice, John. I just picked it up.

She's my first parts dryer. Anything else worth saving before it goes to scrap? Heating element? Timer?[this post was last edited: 12/5/2014-09:20]

 

[classiccaprice]

It there any reason to keep the motor off the 68? I'll keep the switch and return the one you let me borrow John.