I haven't seen parts or service manuals on these washers, but John Lefever told me last night that it has an all plastic transmission - filled with corn oil! (at least that will still be available 50 years from now when someone is trying to restore it!)
The tub is a very odd shape, essentially round but with the discs on the sides of the tub it makes it appear more like a cone-shaped coffee filter in shape. I've seen one running at a client's home, it's very interesting to watch and somehow, it's able to spin the load at top speed. It has a suspended assembly, much like a newer GE, which makes unbalanced loads easier to handle. There is a diverter for the water flow (much like a front load washer - over the dispenser drawer) that directs the flow into different channels in the lid. When it's time to dispense for the bleach or softener, water flows through those holes and causes a siphon effect, dispensing the contents into the tub. Very "Dispensall-like" but thankfully with fresh water!
I think you're right frigilux, it's most likely a "lame duck" design and will be gone (or at least greatly modified) with the impending takeover of Maytag.
Did anyone happen to see the press release earlier this week from Maytag that they need to borrow $600 million to continue operating? More layoffs are planned, etc.
