Sanyo and Hitachi
I know Steve, I also thought these machines were Sanyo built, they look almost spot on. I still sometimes slip up and call them Sanyos even though I know they're Hitachi. Good machines, the one that you've got is a slightly newer model than mine which is the original version under the Hotpoint nameplate. Your machine is called the "Convertible" because of the hot water valve and temp selection and is the higher model. This series uses a more familiar GE style control panel with appropriate knobs. There is a lower model with only one fill valve and just a water level switch, which to me makes more sense for a portable like this. They made stacking kits for these and they could be connected stationary with the dryer overhead for cramped spaces, I have a portable Lady Kenmore washer that's like that, either mobile or like a baby full size. The blue impeller is a lot more aggresive than the 5-spoke black impeller of the previous model. The blue impeller machine is sort of something I'm on the look out for as I had a harvest gold set when I was a kid and I really liked it. Anyway great little machine, is that the one that you got from Martin?
-Tim