Maytag A806

[jimmyb]

Made the plunge and bought another set! Maytag A806 and DE808. Got them on craigslist and they seemed to be in great shape until I got them home.

Dryer is overall in good shape after a thorough cleaning. As I started working on the washer and could remove the filter I decided to remove the agitator and what a dreadful sight. There was so much build up (scale, detergent..) I could not believe it. I have gotten most of it out (several hour soaking in hot water and white vinegar then plastic putty knife) but am wondering if I should have concerns about the outer tub. Should I be worried? If so what should I do to check it out.

Thanks for your help in advance.

 

[gansky1]

I wouldn't worry too much, some of the worst inner baskets I've seen had some of the cleanest outer tubs - much to my amazement. Maytag's Swirl-Away draining seemed to keep everything pretty clean. There is likely some build up around the center boot and stem under the basket, but that's normal and probably won't affect function at all. Do you have soft or softened water? Try adding some STPP or other softener with your detergent, that will cut down on the buildup from now on and, in time, may help reduce what's already there.

 

[jimmyb]

Thanks

Greg:

Thanks for the advice - it was tough enough to tell the other half I was getting the set. The thought of having to tear it apart and buy some parts was something I did not want to do - or admit to

One more question though - I can hear the debris (chunks of scale) running around in the pump - do you think I should remove it and take it apart to clean it or should it clean itself out after a few full washes cycles?

We have a water softener so I once I am finished cleaning it I should not see it build up again.

Thanks again Greg!

 

[bajaespuma]

Acids

You might also want to try a careful application of CLR or some other acid Limescale/Rust/calcium remover. I have had particularly good luck with both CLR toilet-bowl cleaner and GLISTEN citric acid dishwasher cleaner(mixed with 1 pint of boiling water). I've soaked the plastic Maytag agitator and its plastic parts in CLR overnight and it has cleaned it brilliantly. The only warning is don't let the acid touch the chrome top of the lint filter, if that is the type your machine has.If the scale refuses to budge you could try a bit of muriatic acid but be very careful; wear heavy gloves, goggles and a respirator mask. The stuff is evil and if the liquid doesn't get you, the fumes will.

Please post some pictures when you can.

 

[goatfarmer]

The stuff in the pump should work itself out in a few loads. Enjoy your new "old" Maytags!

kennyGF