Maytag A209 - Anyone missing a sock?

[lowefficiency]

While doing my usual Craigslist/Facebook searches, I came across this Maytag washer listed in the free section. The seller described its condition as having worked fine for years, but then it developed a terrible squealing sound. They had purchased a new washer, so it was time for this one to go.

The scrappers in my area are FAST to jump on free machines. I'm only really looking for center-dial machines, but I knew from the white buttons and knob that this machine, whatever model it was, was the right age to have the pitman-style transmission. So I figured I would pick it up, and see what I could make of it. Worst case I could use it for parts. Luckily the seller still had it, so I arranged to meet him that evening.

 

[lowefficiency]

Upon arrival, I could see that the washer, then identified as an A209, was in fact in quite good shape. Clearly better condition than my rusty A408, so at the very least it has that going for it.

 

[lowefficiency]

Back home, popped off the front, yep- this one is in good shape. A few overflow dribbles, but no streaks on the cabinet from water or oil leaks, and no rust at all to speak of.

 

[lowefficiency]

Small tub, no staining or rust. Wish it was a large tub, but I can live with it when it's this clean. I haven't wiped it down yet in this picture.

 

[lowefficiency]

A209 control panel. The serial number has an "LN" code, so I believe this was manufactured in July of 1983.

 

[lowefficiency]

I have to run - but I'll share some photos of the diagnosis and the start of this machine's repairs when I have time.
Needless to say, this one isn't going to be scrapped or parted out anytime soon!

 

[stricklybojack]

.
Looks to be in fantastic shape!
Nice get.

 

[robbinsandmyers]

These later Maytags with that style console have a pitman trans only if they have white buttons?

 

[peteski50]

Maytag A209!

Best Of Luck with the A209

 

[combo52]

Squealing MT DC Washer

I assume It Had a sock between the tubs, this was a common occurrence on MT washers of this age especially the small tub models, this was just another problem with spin drain machines.

 

John L.

 

[wayupnorth]

My 511 looks very similar but with an extra large button and tub, one speed Fabric-Matic. I bought it and matching 410 dryer in mid 1984. Did an extra large load in it today and had to use the dryer again with all this rain. Both ran just like the day I took them out of the boxes nearly 35 years ago.

 

[swestoyz]

Nice find! Who was the dealer on the service sticker?

Ben

 

[79maytaga106]

Very nice find!

 

[repairguy]

Reply to robbinsandmyers. I have a 1987 model Maytag washer with the dark push buttons and a pitman transmission. Sometime around late 1987 or 1988 Maytag went to the orbital transmission. I like the center dial Maytags but I also liked the wood grain push button style of the early to mid eighties. Great find by the way. This washer looks to be in pretty good shape for its age.

 

[lowefficiency]

>> Nice find! Who was the dealer on the service sticker?

Ben, the dealer is "Bartunek's Maytag", out of Cedar Rapids IA.

I asked my folks, and Mom said she remembered getting parts for their dryer there many years ago. Not sure when they closed, but she thought they might have decided to call it after one of the huge floods? Those buildings would have been completely under water in several of the floods from the past decades. That specific address is a really neat craft store now.

 

[lowefficiency]

>> These later Maytags with that style console have a pitman trans only if they have white buttons?

John, I believe the conditions are slightly different...

My understanding is that the white (ivory?) button console machines all had the pitman transmission, and the standard turquoise power-fin agitator.
But the black-button machines were produced during the transition, and could have either the pitman or orbital transmission, depending on their production date. If sold with the orbital transmission, it would also have the slightly smaller diameter turquoise agitator with the "shark fins" on the upper column.

I could be wrong - Can any of the Maytag gurus confirm this?

 

[good-shepherd]

scrappers in my area are FAST

Damn vultures! What are they getting for a washer at todays scrap prices. a lousy $10 bucks or so?

Glad you saved it, nothing like finding a 36 year old machine in excellent condition.

 

[lowefficiency]

... and thanks for the brochure images, Peter!
I hadn't seen that one - let alone much A209 info at all - on the forum here, so that scan is much appreciated!

 

[lowefficiency]

OK, and on to the repair!
First step was to open up the control panel - from the FRONT this time - not used to that. I still prefer the earlier styling, but I bet those servicing these loved this change and how much easier the access was.

Inside was the schematic...