Roper washing machine?

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weed30

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I'm not sure about the age of this, so move to the proper forum if needed. Anyway, I know this is a little dinged up but is Roper a good washer? My sister needs to replace her old Whirlpool that's leaky and stinky. I feel like it's probably overpriced but could make an offer.

 

What used washers would you recommend in general that are reliable/easy to fix?

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/587694619476189/
weed30-2023071422081803798_1.jpg
 
The subject of used washer recommendations is getting tricky because so many appliances these days are not designed to be repaired. rather, they are manufactured in a way that they get sent to scrap as soon as something really major breaks on them. So, the used market isn't as prevalent as it once was unfortunately. I believe that Speed Queen is the main exception to this plastic-fantastic rule, but someone more knowledgeable than me can certainly chime in if I am off base in any way.

I do believe that the Whirlpool-built direct drive platform (the Roper above belongs to this group) is still a good choice for a used washer, but be aware that the newest of these is now around 13 years of age and will need at least some minor going over. I learned my lesson about that last year when I bought a direct drive Whirlpool washer from a used appliance dealer here in town. The machine was made in 2005 and I thought that since it came from a storefront type of situation it would be completely in working order, and the thing is, it mostly was but there were minor issues with it that became major difficulties over a few months. I wound up having several components replaced on it and the machine runs very well now, but my point is just to expect to do some work or hire someone to have it done if you buy one of these machines. It's very likely it won't be ready to jump into service as is if you want any longevity out of it.

I hope this is helpful to you and I wish you and your sister luck.

Ryne
 
Is she opposed to buying new? If not, there are a few options that would probably fit what she's looking for but be aware these are kind of bottomf-of-the-barrel models these days and won't last very long.

The model below is a decent option but it's now only available from Lowes. I used to have it, gearbox failed in just under six years but that is about how long things last now.

This machine is all knobs with only one push-to-start button, as well as a deep-water option and traditional dual-action agitator. It does have a computer board controlling the cycles but they all do now. The completely analog timer controls are no longer available on washers at all as far as I am aware. Even Speed Queen, which held out the longest as far as that situation goes, now uses computer boards to control even their basic dial machines.

Ryne

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Whirlpool-...d-Washer-White-While-Supplies-Last/1000064061
 
NICE!

It turns out that I think I can fix her current washer :)  Between here and youtube, it's likely the fill valve which is easy to replace, and the for the smell I'm getting some citric acid. I love this forum!!
 
the smell I'm getting some citric acid.

Try bleach and hot water wash first. The smell is likely mildew and other crud probably from cold water washes, not enough detergent or bleach.

Citric acid is good for hard water deposits
 
bleach

Thanks for the tip - we'll try that first. The model she has is LAT5005AAW, serial number A0107023, manufactured in March 2010 according to the decoder I found. I watched a video showing how to replace the fill valve and it looks pretty easy. I need a better tool to get the clips to release the top - I could only get one to let go and didn't want to break anything with the drywall mud spade I was using.
 
Are you sure this is a Whirlpool, and not Maytag, washer? As far as I am aware, model numbers that begin with LAT belong to Maytags produced from 1989 to 2006 when Whirlpool took over the company. I don't think there were any LAT washers produced in 2010.
 
But the tag numbers indicate 2010

The helical design ceased production in 2006 so it's older than that.

 

Remove the front cover and see where the leak is coming from. It could just be as simple as a leaky hose clamp that needs tightening.

 

If the washer stinks, she's not using properly. Most likely way too many cold water washes. Do not let her purchase a front loader if she can't keep a top loader clean and aroma free.
 
If that's KB to the far right, it was built in January, 1994....pushing 30 years of age.

 

You won't find one single washer made today that will accomplish that life cycle.
 
As an eBay Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
 
weed30:  "The model she has is LAT5005AAW, serial number A0107023, manufactured in March 2010 according to the decoder I found."

qsd-dan:  "If that's KB to the far right, it was built in January, 1994....pushing 30 years of age."

Weed30, the KB characters are set away from the rest of the serial number (per your photo of the tag) but they are a relevant part (code for the year/month of factory production) of Maytag's serial syntax used at the time.
 
that's leaky and stinky.

While you're in there replacing the valve that machine looks like it needs a good cleaning inside and out.

The later models with the redesigned plastic tub cover get crudded up more easily.

I'd take the front panel off and lift the top and give the tub a good scrubbing with a sponge and Bon-Ami cleanser.

Be careful with any kind of acid cleaners they can damage the porcelain as some have found out the hard way.

These Maytags can run a long time with preventive maintenance.
 
DADoES - Thank you - someone else pointed that out too. Explains why I thought it was 2010!

 

Good-Shepherd - I'll do that. According to the video I saw I have to lift the top to get to the valve anyway. Or maybe I don't have the right video - is the one linked correct as far as opening the top? I know hers is an older model but I think it works the same.  How to open the top starts at :41

 
Reply #23

George, that really stinks and I would have been highly upset. It indeed sounds like you got a lemon from the factory. Yeah, after being on this forum for some time as well as stories I've heard from others, I expect my VMW washer lasted about as long as they're expected to. What a shame, but it is what it is.

Like you, I now have an older direct drive washer, but mine is Whirlpool rather than Kenmore and a few years newer than yours I believe. I am much happier with it than I was with the VMW, although as I pointed out earlier in this thread, the entry level VMW washers are a decent machine for someone who finds themselves in a pinch and just needs a washer cheaply and quickly. They'll definitely get the job done, but they're not the best quality by any stretch. I'll be buying a front loader when my direct drive begins to have too many problems, as I don't think any top loader built today is worth much.

Ryne
 
How to open the top starts at :41

Yeah I'm not watching that youtube vid and have to wade through their shitty commercials.

Top opens like a car hood: Remove the two front panel screws and lift outward and upward from the bottom to release the top clips, then remove the screws at the front corners to lift the top cover.

Pro tip: Tape down the lid so it doesn't slam into the console when lifting the top.
 

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