Maytag Neptune bearings

[norgechef]

For all you Maytag Neptune owners out there, please give me some advice. I'm always a bit wary when purchasing used appliances but I found a good deal on a 2007 Maytag Neptune front load washer (NOT Samsung version) that looks immaculate on the outside, and the ad states that it works good too, but I see so many people selling broken Neptune's for parts due to bad bearings that it makes me a little bit nervous about getting one.

What conditions do the bearings fail easily in? I always thought that if I got a front loader I would just run some Affresh/Tide washing machine cleaner through it every few months, leave the door open after each cycle and run the spin cycle at the lowest speed to prevent bearing failures or mold, and on a washer like the Neptune I would obviously try to keep it very clean and use it on the lightest cycles since they are known for bearing failure, but would doing any of those things really prevent the bearings from failing?

I just don't want to get a Neptune and less than a year later have it turn into a money pit like my Maytag Atlantis did. Anyone that has any advice on Maytag Neptune front loaders or someone who knows about how to keep the bearings good as long as possible please comment! I really want to get this washer...but before I do I need some positive feedback on it.

 

[tecnopolis]

I am a huge fan of the later Neptunes. With that being said, bearing failures are not exclusive to them as it seems to effect all front loaders.
I would be more concerned with a corroded tub spider which doesen't seem to be as common an issue for Neptunes as they are for the Fridgidaire models.If you've got one of those it's "game over" unles your willing to find another Neptune to use as a parts donor as new tub spiders aren't usually available for sale without having to buy the whole wash tub..

 

[yogitunes]

bearing failure comes more from seal failure more than the bearing itself...

I have several, thats an understatement, but there is one set that I bought brand new in 2000, very few loads have ever been washed in COLD, mostly warm and hot washes, and of course bleach with the whites, never leave the door open or the dispenser drawer, and have never had an issue.......yet, I know the bearings are going to need replacing eventually...

that being said, buying a few used sets, I have found them to be grossed out with mold and mildew, and filthly inside....it really depends on how they were taken care of by the previous owner....and most, not well......and within months needed the bearing and seals replaced.....not saying all are like that....

now the big question, is this something you want to take on when it occurs, the first time, it took me about 3 hours, now there is nothing to doing the job, cleaning it all out, and running top dollar again.......it will purr after a new set.....and cost is about 50.00 for parts...

theres plenty of videos on YouTube of replacing them, some leave the tub in, others take the tub out and do all the work, what is ever easier for you...you can even rent a TonyTool to help...

mine get a workout, and knock on wood, are still in great condition...but it really is all about taking care of them...

if anything while looking over a set, its best if you can plug it in, and at least run a spin cycle, that will tell you for the most part if they need replaced right away...

 

[norgechef]

Ok, thanks for your advice!

Obviously you know what your talking about with all those Neptunes! and yes I agree that a big part of preventing bearing failure in any washer, front load or top load is using warm or hot water, and I still use bleach for my whites as well. I have so far not had bearings go out on any washer I have owned yet!

My first major washer repair was when I replaced the transmission and bearing/seal kit on my norgetag this summer, of course I needed a little help but it only took me an hour and a half in total. That being said I think I am up to replacing front load bearings some time in the future, just don't really have allot of money to do so or people that would offer to help me tear into a washing machine.

Also, this front loader will be my first ever so I guess I will have to start studying the repair manual for the Neptune's! The only reason I was so fast fixing my norgetag was that I already watched the repair videos for norgetag's so many times.

Anyhow, it will all work out. I think i'll bite the bullet and buy it! that is if the sellers message me back.

 

[yogitunes]

I don't think you'll be sorry.....I love mine.....so far I got 6 sets and a stacked unit....

the dryers are all gas.....I had to replace the solenoids twice on the new unit, but thats about it...and clean them once a year...

let us know how you make out.....