Restoring a 1965 Lady Kenmore

[sudslock1]

Hello all! Wanted to ask what are some key things to look for when starting a rebuild/restore on a 1965 Lady Kenmore washer and dryer. I know I need a roto flex agitator as mine is broken and the two push buttons for the dryer as they are missing. If anyone has either of those parts let me know. Any helpful hints would be great.

Thanks!

 

[114jwh]

I'm no expert by any definition but I'll give you my two cents based on the rebuild I did.

First thing I'd check would be the condition of the outer tub and centerpost. The amount of corrosion present will dictate next steps.

Centerpost bearings/seals frequently need to be replaced in a washer of this age. The machine may be noisy or leak a bit if this is the case. Fortunately the bearings/seals are still available but the bad news is you need a special tool to install them and it is somewhat hard to find. You'd probably need to borrow one from someone.

If you are going as far as centerpost bearings/seals then you should also replace the spin tube and agitator shaft. Should also be able to source these parts.

I'd also check the condition of the pump as these can often fail on these machines. Check for leaks and also if there is any significant resistance when turning the pulley.

Here are a few links which may help you out:

http://www.automaticwasher.org/cgi-bin/00ShowCollectionGETD.cgi?dir=/RESTORATIONS/1957_LADY_KENMORE/

http://www.automaticwasher.org/cgi-bin/TD/TD-VIEWTHREAD.cgi?50185

http://www.automaticwasher.org/cgi-bin/TD/TD-VIEWTHREAD.cgi?50548

http://www.automaticwasher.org/cgi-bin/TD/TD-VIEWTHREAD.cgi?54743

I'm not sure on the buttons for the dryer but the agitator shouldn't be too difficult to replace (maybe not an exact replacement but something that will work)

Good luck and keep us updated on your progress!

 

[bendixmark]

65 Kenmore

I thought you liquidated and moved to Paris?I emailed you about your bendixes.I could tell you anything you want to know about those machines I have rebuilt many.I have a 1965 Lady Kenmore dryer also.