Well, I got a Bendix machine today...

[turquoisedude]

Good save!

That looks like a pretty old model alright! I don't have any specific information on Bendix machines like service manuals, but I have a set of home appliance repair books that feature a Bendix machines as illustrations - there is a good section on how the high-speed spin clutches engage in a Bendix. Let me know if this would help and I will be happy to copy the pages and send them to you.

 

[supremewhirlpol]

Should I improve this machine?

I had an interesting thought: is it possible to improve this machine to the point where parts would be more available for it?

The old controls? no, problem: use a generic PLC with small LCD screen to control cycle fucntions.

The main bearing, I'm sure can be found at a motor shop or bearing shop.

The low extraction speed? Well, fit the machine with a 3 phase inverter-duty TEFC motor and VFD and also use a bigger pully on the motor shaft.

I remember seeing a video of a Bendix Eudora machine somewhere in the UK (mark1973? maybe?). The drum rotation would instantly reverse and it would attempt to redistribute the clothes to go into spin. I think a 1HP motor should do the trick. What you do guys and gals think?

 

[thomasortega]

Wonderful idea..
pre-war Gorenje-Bendix..... 2000rpm spin...

don't forget to evacuate your neighbourhood before the first test.

 

[volvoguy87]

I don't know.

Prewar Bendix machines are much less common than postwar models, I would preserve this one. Also, I don't know if the rest of the washer (frame, drum shaft, etc.) could handle higher speeds and vibration. These were the first automatic washers ever and the engineers were breaking new ground with them. It might be better to let this one remain as is.

Dave

 

[supremewhirlpol]

So, this is a pre-war model?

 

[Unimatic1140]

No this is a post 1946 model, you can tell by the nameplate in the front of the machine.

 

[cornutt]

South Bend...

Was the Bendix home appliances division associated with Studebaker somehow?

 

[supremewhirlpol]

The manual came today!! Thanks Turquoisedude.

 

[davek]

Studebaker

Bendix wasn't involved with Studebaker, but I think that Franklin was. At one point or another, every major US automaker was building appliances (GM Frigidaire, Ford Philco, Chrysler Airtemp, Nash/AMC Kelvinator, and Studebaker Franklin).

 

[soberleaf]

does it really spin at 2000 rpm?

that is incredible if it does! and i'll bet when the bearings start to wear out it sounds like jet taking off. but still it's a great washer and i'm glad you got it and not me! i don't know much about old bendix machines. i had an aunt that had one but i never really got to see it in action.

enjoy it!

 

[supremewhirlpol]

It doesn't have a 2000 rpm spin yet. I'm still deciding whether or not implement the VFD system and PLC or just leave it like it is. By looking at the basic controls of the machine, it looks like I may be able to use a small PLC with an LCD screen and I may be able to have multiple programs on it. I was thinking one program can have the machine behave the traditional way and another can have the ramp up to the 2000 rpm spin.