Clutches vs. Motor
Yes, I agree it's odd that they don't use a multi-speed motor. They made the 2 speed motor in my parts Easy...
There are certainly pros and cons. The pump has to run at full speed to do the filtering on the GE's, but if using the Rim-Flo design it wouldn't matter the force. In regards to pump speed requirements, the clutch allows for multiple speeds of different parts. An electric pump would have also fixed the issue, but at the time probably more costly. Also while it is over-complicated, they do have a reasonable service life most go for 15-20 years before rebuild/replace and on a modern appliance timeline, that's an eternity. The 1-speed clutch is much simpler, and I have much less problem with it from what I can see of it's internals, I think the clutch is a good idea to have with the spin-drain load, but again with an electric pump, you wouldn't have the intense load with a neutral drain setup. Just a few points for both sides. I love the FF's, but some of the inner workings I feel could be done better especially considering how long they were around.
I like some wash drama, which the GE's provide. I love KM/WP's as well and would never get rid of my portable set. The full size machines are great too, but we had them in the house growing up as a kid and they're just the usual for me. Good, reliable, but to me the GE is more fun to use. The KM portables are fun too, they're splashy and with the lint filter, they're an active wash. Frigidaires are neat too, but I would never want to work on one, nor do I believe I'd ever find one.
Anywho, it looks like I'll be doing some major work on my GE as well, good luck Martin with your machine, and remember pics are ALWAYS welcome.