Hi Mom!
Couldn't resist saying that!
I own a KitchenAid KDS-55, which is the portable version of the KDS-15. I have a few tips:
- These are somewhat harder to find certain parts for than later machines, it is true. But parts are not unobtainium. If you want to use one of these machines, it can be done.
- Later machines have some refinements in the racking system that you would probably find appealing - more adjustability, etc.
- $100 is not out of the question for a machine that is in really good shape, meaning working, no rust in the sump (the depression in the middle of the floor where the wash arm and filter are located), and no leaks. It is out of the question for a machine with a problem or two, because you'll spend a fair amount of money fixing it. Rust in the sump is Not. Good. and I personally would pass the machine up, though there are folks here who have fought sump rust and won.
- The KDS-15 is one of the very few appliances that has EVERY item of sales and service literature available on AW.org's sister site, Automatic Ephemera. The sales brochure, the installation instructions, the owner's manual, the complete parts list and the technician's service manual (the same one issued to Hobart techs back when these machines were new) are all available for download at a modest cost per item. Highly recommended. Other machines also have most literature available.
- The KDS-16 in the Craigslist ad represents a significant advance over the KDS-15. I just happen to love 15-series machines.
- Whatever vintage KitchenAid you choose, you will have to learn self-reliance when it comes to repairs. You've already learned that regular appliance repair people don't want to fool with them. People here on AW.org will help any way they can, and trust me - they can. You really need to get a service manual and a parts list for whichever KA you end up with from Automatic Ephemera. Go to
www.automatice.org and look up "KitchenAid"; you'll probably find what you need there.
Hope something in here helps.