Wow, great story Leslie, thanks for sharing. Even though I think they're a bit boring to watch with the DA agitator, those DD Whirlpool/Kenmore machines are pretty much dead reliable...and one of the simplest machines to work on as well, IMHO. After reading this story they seem to be pretty tough!
When I replaced the drive coupler in March on my Kenmore, I was shocked to find that the original coupler only had slight wear and it had been washing for close to 7 years, doing 12-14 loads a week. That says something right there. While many others will have been Krushed, I do believe that there will be many DD Whirlpool/Kenmore machines still running 30 years from now. And just look how reliable the old Belt-Drive design has been as well!
--Austin