Trying to identify an older Whirlpool washer

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Does a change in part number necessarily mean a change in the actual part? I did notice some different part numbers for certain parts, but the diagrams look the same. Basically I was going to keep the M one for spare parts should the K one ever need them, specifically for the tranny, motor, console, etc.
 
Does a change in part number necessarily mean a change in th

YES, absolutely. Whirlpool doesn't change parts and part numbers unless there is a material difference with them somehow. Very often the new part will sub-over and replace the old part on a one for one basis, but if the part is changed, it usually gets a new part number.

I just consulted my Whirlpool parts catalog (from 1992). The K machine is a 1982 model, and the M a 1984. Since yours is a K2, there is little or no difference with the major parts that are listed in the catalog reference (not every part is listed). The two machines use the same timers, motors, pumps, etc. If you had a K1 or a K0, a different pump was used from the K2 or the M0 (thus a different lint filter too) but you have two the same.

Just for reference, nearly all belt-drive machines use interchangeable transmissions. They were revised over the years for sure, but other than the rare late 60s to 1973 super tall post 18lb. machines, the transmissions interchange. Even more-so for the motors. A current 285222 motor, which is essentially what you have in both your machines, will fit ANY belt drive, 1, 2, or 3 speed. In a 3 speed the extra-slow doesn't work, but at least there is something out there for what would otherwise be an SOL 3-speed machine. I'm digressing...

Brian - Your machine has a lot of common parts. The timer, motor, and pump can still be had new. Keep the 'parts' machine though - you may need a tub (NLA), gearcase, etc. though your transmission sounds great based on your videos.

Gordon
 
Thank you for all the information

I was toying around with the thought of repairing the parts machine (M0), with the parts I already ordered and have, but then I begin to wonder if my working machine (K2) needs parts, well it is going to have to get the parts from somewhere down the the road. As weird as it may sound, I guess I sort of have an issue with taking a machine and putting it to death completely if it is repairable and capable of performing its duty again. The "some must die for others to live", as true as it may seem, is hard for me to deal with I guess.
 
I know how that is Brian, all too well....

To be honest, I have never scrapped one machine for another. I have robbed parts off of already scrapped units, but never consigned any of my own to 'death'. I feel bad enough, lol, that those 21 Whirlpool/Kenmores that I put in my storage trailer back in July were my least favorites, and they likely bit the dust because of it when the trailer got robbed for scrap (I presume).

If you want, we can get the M machine up and running. I wouldn't worry too much about parts availability for the K2 washer - it doesn't have anything unusual on it that I can see, and I am sure you can accumulate a collection of replacement parts as they come available on ebay or something, so you so desire. That's actually fun to do.

Don't stress it Brian, we'll get that machine running if you want, when you're ready, then you'll have TWO to play with.

G
 
I think it is leaking from the centerpost gasket as the water is coming out from underneath the outer tub where it sits on the frame. I have that gasket, as well as the tub drain grommet, the seal for the side of the tub for the pressure switch hose, drive block, and spanner nut. Figured while I was in there, I would just replace everything. It look like it took a hit to the top of the console like it banged against the corner of a wall. It does function otherwise, other than the fast leak. I have some pics of the new one I got that I will post.
 
Just to be clear here, this is the one (K2) from Dover on Saturday, that was in this nice old ladies house in her basement. The one from Saugerties, NY (M0) looks initially cleaner, but hides a lot of other secrets unfortunately due to its previous owners' abuse.
 
Brian -

Cool pics! The dirt on the machine is pretty common, at least in my experience. Some can get really nasty. I have always periodically wiped down the tub rings of my mother's and my machines to prevent this, as they build-up dust, splash debris and the occasional over-zealous detergent scoop. I usually take the tub rings out in the back yard and hose them down top and bottom with a hose and pressure nozzle.

The machine looks to be in good shape though - the corner gussets look really good - little rust in there for a machine in a basement on the east coast.

Oh, by the way - which machine is leaking, the K or the M?

Gordon
 
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