Maytag Wringer Model 60 vs Model 90

[maranoman]

I am considering buying a Maytag Model 60 wringer washer that is for sale not too far from me. The serial number is F-50339. I understand that these were only made for a year in 1929. The one for sale still has much of its apple green paint. Two questions:

1) Mechanically and parts-wise, what are the differences between a model 60 and a model 90/91/92? I see many more Model 90/91/92’s for sale, but this is the only model 60 I have seen. The only other one on the Internet seems to be in the collection at oldewash.com.

2) The machine is about 2 1/2 hours away. Not wanting to waste 5 hours of my life, I had the seller plug in the machine and tell me what happens. He says that the motor bums but the rollers and agitator do not move. I asked him to see if he could remove the belt cover and remove the belt to see if the motor shaft was moving, but he doesn’t seem mechanically-inclined. I’m hoping that either the belt is broken or something in the drivetrain is binding. But I’m fearing that the motor may be shot. If that is the case, could I find a similar era machine and use its motor?

This is my first venture into the wringer world, and just want to get your opinion on whether to go after this machine for its rarity. It’s only $50. But I also don’t want to spend 5-6 hours to pick up a piece of junk. See CL link below.

Thanks - Jeff

http://https//quadcities.craigslist.org/atq/d/antique-maytag-ringer-washer/6572900841.html

 

[maranoman]

Motor hums, not burns

Sorry - I meant to write that the motor hums when he plugs it in, not burns.

 

[maranoman]

Photos

Here are some photos sent by the seller.

 

[bradross]

I've worked on Models 90, 30 and 32...

and it appears to me that the only difference between that one pictured and a Model 90 is the skinny rolls as compared with the balloon-type that came out in later Model 90 machines (and was standard on Model 30 and later.)

The power unit looks to be identical to the Model 90. My question to you is: are you going to actually use the machine? If so, keep in mind the possibility of grease dripping down from the rack, which is exposed. Personally, my preference is for the Model 30 and later because of the sealed power unit - which has many obvious benefits, including a quieter operation.

That said, $50.00 seems reasonable for that Model 60, especially if you can get the motor working. Typically, they just need cleaning and oiling to get them running smoothly again. Could be just the centrifugal switch that is stuck, causing it to hum.

 

[maranoman]

Decided to pass on it...

Thank you for your advice. I decided to pass on the model 60 machine yesterday - just didn't feel it was worth the 5-hour round trip.

I'm just looking for a fun restoration project for the summer - not something that I will use regularly. I had not considered the benefits of a sealed power unit - I think I will narrow my focus down to the model 30 and later machines like you suggested.

Your restoration videos and Flickr photos have been very inspirational - thank you for those!

 

[bradross]

You're welcome, Jeff!

Glad to hear my vids and pics were helpful to you! Good luck in your search and restoration project! When you do source a machine, if you need any information, I'd be pleased to offer any advise I can.

 

[neptunebob]

Why not make it a mini-vacation?

Rather than "wasting" 5 hours of your life why not see some places you have not seen before on the way and make a vacation out of the trip? Although I do notice you are in Iowa and I guess you could see nothing but corn fields for 5 hours.

 

[maranoman]

Iowa along I-80

1) I have made the drive across Iowa (and Illinois) from Des Moines to Chicago hundreds of times to visit my family and have seen everything along the way!

2) There was also heavy rain and severe weather on Sunday that I'm glad I avoided.

3) I wasn't quite sure if the washer would fit through the rear hatch of my Prius C so the thought of dismantling a 90-year-old machine in the rain wasn't as appealing as staying at home and tearing into an old typewriter!

I'm still keeping my eyes open for a good wringer project. There's plenty of them for sale here but can't understand why so many think they're worth $200+ unrestored.