Chris -
I have not come across a lot of Penta-Swirl machines lately, in fact I got one 1980 model about a year ago, and it's the last I've seen. It isn't like I see every Kenmore that goes through this region, far from it, but the DA machines were so much more plentiful and so heavily touted by Kenmore and Sears that I'm thinking by 1979/1980 or so when the DA made it to the mid-line models, there wasn't much draw for the Penta-Swirl. The 'Swirl models were only $10 or so less expensive than the the first DAs. Plus, the last couple years of the Penta-Swirl were recession years, so output was lower. There were lots of Penta-Swirl machines in 1977 and 1978 though, LOTS. Those machines in general are becoming scarce.
I know that RevinKevin would like to find a good home for his 1980 machine and/or matched pair, and if you want to work something out with him to bring the washer to the east coast (we sometimes can work some deals with shippers), I will gladly do the work on the washer that it needs (I am pretty familiar with that machine) and maybe I'll be helping out both of you? You would have to get the washer from Charlotte.
OR, if you can be happy with a DA equppped washer (though I like my Penta-Swirl machine, the DA is truly much MUCH more effective overall). The Penta-Swirl is fine if a competent user is using it, but general every-day consumers would find the DA much better. If you would be interested in one of those, I probably have one of a dozen machines that you might be interested in.
Gordon
