Need To Buy New Washer

[mrsalvo]

Hey Everyone,
My 1997 Maytag Dependable Care washer is making a HORRIBLE
grinding noise during agitation and I'm thinking either buying
something new or calling out the repairman. If the repairs are
going to be expensive then I'll probably buy new. However,
I know that I haven't seen anymore Dependable Care washers
from Maytag in a LONG time, do you think I should invest on
repairs on my machine? Oh what to do!! Any input would be
of help.
Mrsalvo

 

[coldspot66]

Could be a tranny problem...........buy a top load whirlpool/kenmore. For the $$$$ not to be beaten!!

 

[jaxsunst]

Have to agree, my '92 Kenmore washer and drier keep chugging along, the washer sounds awful, but keeps running. They are the tanks of the modern top loader.

 

[MikeS]

Roper Best Buy Among Whirlpool-Made Machines

I can't argue that Whirlpool-made top loaders are the workhorses of today's modern machines. I'd suggest if you're looking for the best buy among Whirlpool-made washers, check out the no-frills Roper line. My Roper washer and gas dryer have been working since I bought them new in 1989, with not a repair needed between them. True, they're a bit on the noisy side, but they do the job. Lowes sells them, as does Best Buy.

 

[maytagbear]

Gives me great pain to say this, but

I would NOT buy a modern Maytag washer, top loading OR front loading, under any circumstance. They are just not the same. Maytag has gone to a totally different, cheaper, and vastly inferior transmission.

If you like the machine, have it repaired. 8 years old is NOT old for a "Dependable Care" Maytag, at all.

MY 1997 "Dependable Care" has only had one very minor repair--replacing the nylon hinge balls. Knock wood, it is the washer that will see me out of my 40s (it saw me out of my 30s!), and well into my 70s!

However, if the repair estimate is more than you feel comfortable with (Even though it would be great financial hardship, I would go up to $300, not including trip charge), or more than your plastic can withstand, then I agree with the gentlemen above, and say go WhirlMore (Whirlpool-Kenmore). The WhirlMore is the only American built washer I would consider buying new.

Whirlpool Family:

Estate/Roper/Whirlpool/Kenmore/KitchenAid.

However, I am for saving that Maytag, if at all possible.

Lawrence/Maytagbear

 

[mrsalvo]

I want to thank you guys for your input. I wasn't sure
just how much to spend on a repair, $300.00 does sound
reasonable. Its been a good washer, it cleans the clothes
well, cycle times are quick, and its fairly quiet before
it started making the grinding noise. I think its probably
one of the last few of the true Maytags out there. And 8
years wasn't old for any machine, let alone a Maytag, but
I know that they don't "build'em like they used to" either.

If I did buy new, either a SQ top load or Kenmore with
"quietpak" insillation. I have looked at the front loaders
and they've left me feeling unsure for various reasons,
namely my bad back.

Again, thanks for your input.
Mrsalvo.