Thoughts on Kenmore washer as daily driver?

[rickc]

What are everyone's thoughts on this washer becoming a daily driver? It's not in my possession (yet), but seems to be in pretty good shape. The only known problem is with the agitation not being as forceful on a full load (this was told to me by the current owner -- I haven't seen the washer in person yet). Is this a common problem? Would parts still be available? Easy or difficult to repair? Thanks!

 

[qsd-dan]

That's a pretty darn BOL machine, I'd personally hold out for something with more options. The agitation issue is probably worn agitator dogs.

 

[maytag85]

I agree with QSD-DAN, that machine doesn’t have many features on it. Of course people will say the more stuff a machine has, the more there is to break but if you look how many Maytag A806’s there are out there, that just shows that something that’s TOL can be reliable for many years. Same thing is true with the Kenmore 80 series machine of the 90’s with the various different knobs for speeds, temperatures, rinse options, and water level control.

 

[repairguy]

This Kenmore washer is a 1988 year model and was built the 12th week of 1991. These were some of the most popular machines Sears ever sold because they were basic 2 speed washers that were dependable and reasonably priced. The issue with the agitator dogs is an easy inexpensive repair. Let us know when you get it and we can answer any repair questions you might have. Good luck!

 

[combo52]

1991 Kenmore DD Washer

This is getting a little old unless it has had very light use [ 2 or less loads a week ].

 

How much use will you give this washer ?

 

If more than 1 or 2 loads a week I would go for a FL model since you like these better any way, an older TL machine like this is expensive to run a lot.

 

John L.

 

[maytag85]

Reply #4

Are you sure front loaders ahem filth loaders are better than any top loading machine ever made? I don’t buy that, my folks had a Kenmore front loading set that was bought when I moved to my current house in 2006, did well on some things but simply struggled with heavily soiled items and once it started chewing up clothes, my parents and me were done with it. Since I’ve had my Maytags and Whirlpool set in service, haven’t had any complaints about things not coming clean etc.

 

[stan]

Rick

Difficult to give you a answer..
It depends on your needs and possibly your skill level with repairs.
I agree that the agitator probably need new dogs. And probably needs to have the inner tub removed so it can be cleaned (inside and out) as well as the inside of the outer tub. And clean the agitator..nastiness gets under it too!
That’s what I’d do if I were buying for myself.

 

[rickc]

Thanks for all of your input! I did find out that this washer has been in a single person household for the past 25 years (that's when she bought the house). Plus, it's free! And the parts needed for the repair are not expensive. So, I think I will give it a go and see what happens. If nothing else, it will be an opportunity to experience a Kenmore top loader.