Should I replace my kenmore with an 08 Speed Queen?

[addle]

Both are top loaders.

I currently own:

Kenmore 90
mod: 110 24932200
ser: cp0719541

I replaced a spring, frame at the bottom has significant rust, I had to put lithium grease on the rear leg balancing mechanism to stop vibrations. There was some rust on the arm that held the spring (which can be replaced), the spring might have chewed into the arm a bit. Currently runs fine.

Speen Queen Available at thrift store for $200. Clearly used regularly condition.
aws44nw
0811013933

 

[rp2813]

The SQ is overpriced.  If they have a half-off day, buy it then, but I think your Kenmore is the better of the two machines even with its issues.

 

[iowabear]

Agree with Ralph.  10 years is a long time.  I would pay $200 for that machine if I knew it was low-use and cared for, but not for one from a thrift store.

 

[DADoES]

 
The SQ serial decodes to Nov 2008, so already 10 years.

Your KM serial number indicates manufacture 7th week of 2003 ... so soon to be 16 years.  All the major mechanical parts are available, so you can do as much of a rebuild on it as you want (and it's easier than doing the same to the SQ) ... depending on whether the rest of it is worth the effort.

- base pedestal, if it's too much deteriorated for rust treatment and fresh paint
- tub support, which includes the tub centerpost and spin bearings
- spin drive/brake, which includes the agitator shaft bearings
- spin clutch
- agitator shaft and neutral drain kit (which includes the spin gear) if you want to get into the transmission (and refresh the oil)

*All* of it would be considerably higher cost than paying $200 for the SQ but you'd have a mechanically-rebuilt machine (less the basket, and electrical parts such as the motor and timer) that may well outlast the used SQ.

I recently refurbished a 1999 KM 90 with everything except the base pedestal (I had already rust-treated it 8 years ago).  Parts total of $280 (prices have gone up since).  It's in excellent condition for 19+ years and oughta last another 19 with proper usage care.

 

[yogitunes]

you could just shop around used appliance stores for a newer version of your Kenmore....

you would probably do better to head a little south of your area, NJTP exit 7 or below....better pricing than where your at...

Monmouth County and surrounding areas can account for the higher price on the Speed Queen....or any machine for that fact...

 

[stricklybojack]

.
Here’s an option: sell your Kenmore and anything else lying around of value you don’t need and buy a new Speed Queen.
Used machines can be great values, or conversely, a value trap...sucking cash to stay alive and costing as much as a new unit bought from a discounter.

FYI “today’s price” seems to constantly renew at Appliancesconnection.com, don’t worry too much about missing it.

https://www.appliancesconnection.com/speed-queen-lwn432sp115tw01.html

 

[DADoES]

 
No water level control on that commercial SQ, full-fill only.

 

[stricklybojack]

.
You can select the “Eco” cycle which uses less water. Also less hot though. The manual says there is an option for “normal” or “light” in the eco cycle (same with the delicate cycle), don’t know what that is refering to.
See link below for manual:

http://docs.alliancelaundry.com/tech_pdf/production/204401en.pdf

 

[pierreandreply4]

my advice

my advice would be that you repair your old Kenmore washer that would last you for years

 

[eurekastar]

Does the Eco Cycle on the commercial SQ fill to only a half tub like my Maytag Commercial?

 

[lowefficiency]

>> Used machines can be great values, or conversely, a value trap...sucking cash to stay alive and costing as much as a new unit bought from a discounter.

That's a good point, but of course is highly dependent on how much work you do yourself, and how you put a value on your time. If you're not handy (or not willing to try), the labor costs for a few service calls (or one big one) will easily put you over.

But on the other hand, when you're comparing <$150 used machines with a new one close to $1K, you could handle several total failures by completely replacing the machine, without ever turning a wrench, if you wanted to, and still come out fine on costs.

Everyone will have a different opinion on that, and that's A-OK.

 

[addle]

Thanks for talking be down.

I might still buy it if including delivery it drops to below $100.

 

[rp2813]

A $100 deal as you described would be reasonable.