Source for Westinghouse Laundromat Shocks 1959-1963!

[moparwash]

After using modern Electrolux/Frigidaire shocks and having them wear out quickly, I found a company called A-1 Shock Absorber Company that modified ATV/Snowmobile shocks to fit with the right firmness. I sent one shock to them so they can match it.(old shock on left, new on right) I installed them and ran a small load (large loads stop the tub from turning, as the inner tension spring is missing)and the spin is smooth. Ill run a few more tests, but I think this is the answer, even at $270. I told the guy there that if this works, you may be hearing from other collectors in search of these shocks. He does shocks for commercial washers, but this is the first request he got for a residential unit. See the pics for company contact info if you are interested.

 

[moparwash]

[No message]

 

[tomturbomatic]

Hello...Hello? I'm afraid we don't have a good connection.  You said something about pictures, I believe, but there are none.

 

[moparwash]

It's the pictures that got small!

Check now...I had to rotate one pic and reload them

 

[gansky1]

Thanks for sharing this, it could be very helpful. I don't think $270 is unreasonable at all. Well done, Jerry.

 

[combo52]

New Shocks For A Great Old WH FL Washer

Hi Jerry, Thanks for doing all the leg work and finding a good replacement for these washers, when my Brother Jeff and I rebuild the L-1000 we may look into this option if the shocks seem bad.

 

Back when these machines were in popular use we never saw a bad shock on one but that was a long time ago and time takes a toll on many things.

 

I also can not imagine that the new FD shocks could have worn out this quickly, maybe they were not up to the task in the first place, but again we certainly do not see these failing in just a year of light use.

 

[frigilux]

Congratulations and I'm sure members of the AW family will be able to use your 'custom shocks' connection.
By the way, love the look of that Westy. The console is unique; has an almost whimsical look. It makes me smile. Fits the overall design of the machine beautifully.

 

[moparwash]

Glad to help in this way to keep these machines up and running. The FD shocks took a pounding in spin, even with a small load and the friction sleeves in both of them dislodged. With these shocks, the tub moves very little. The next thing to find would be replacements for the tub springs, though so far the spin cycle is smooth

 

[tomturbomatic]

Love the Swanson/Desmond quote!

 

[arbilab]

......I'll be in the pool.

 

Don't know about the works but architecturally those were the handsomest appliances ever.  Functional art.  Almost feel guilty putting dirty clothes in them.