WP Imperial 70 fix vs. something new

[ktb]

I'm pretty clueless about washing machines, though I obviously appreciate what they do. Can you help me out with some of your expertise, please?

I have a Whirlpool Imperial Seventy that doesn't work properly (loose belt; flaky spin; recent refusal to drain) and my dirty laundry is piling up, while I puzzle this out. Plus, it jumps around and makes the most awful noises when it is running. I don't really mind having the Frankenstein washing machine in the basement, as long as it does its job. A repair person looked at it very briefly and said to trash it and buy a reconditioned newer machine from him. I've been researching and have found people who say the older machines with a direct drive are very reliable. Do you think I should get my Imperial 70 a proper tune-up, or should I dish out the cash for something new?

I can't spend a ton of $ on a washer right now, and I'm frustrated with the consumer reviews I've found online. Consumer Reports recommends top-loader Whirlpool LSW97OOPQ, about $400. Others say spend $200 more for an entry-level Frigidaire front-loader. Then, there are a lot of people saying good things about the Fisher & Paykel top-loading GWL11 (aprox. $600), for its energy efficiency compared to the more expensive front-loaders. Of course, I'd rather just fix the old one and not have to worry about it for another 10 years.

I'd appreciate any advice you can offer. Thanks.

 

[SactoTeddyBear]

Re: My Opinion:

Would be to if the Repair wouldn't cost too much over your approx Budget allowance, I would definataly get your WP Washer Repaired, to give it at least 10-year more Life. Since it is a Belt-Drive, as with its Mate the Kenmore Belt-Drive, they have the better slower somewhat longer Stroke Agitation, compared to the newer Direct-Drive Models. Did you buy your Washer new and this is the first actual Repair needed on it? That to me if so, is even more important in getting it Repaired, if it has been that reliable to you, it certainly deserves to have a "Tune-Up" to get it going basically like new again, to give you the extra reliable Washing of your Laundry.

Good Luck with you decision, let us know which you decide, Steve
SactoTeddyBear...

 

[knitwits1975]

What you could do is get an old beater from a thrift store, yard sale, or other second hand entity and use it to get you by till you get your Imperial 70 refurbished (because I'm sure that's what it needs), just test it first. This will buy you some time to really fix your Whirlpool and fix it well.

 

[fixerman]

KTB,

Where in Minnesota are you? If you are in the Twin Cities area I may be able to look at it and give you a better Idea of what you are dealing with. Or I may be able to supply a loaner while you work on it.

 

[jasonl]

Sounds like needs a new belt, control solenoids (the wigwag) and a new pump. I'm not the expert on actually fixing it but I'm sure that's what's wrong.

Keep the old machine running. You have a classic!

 

[fixerman]

Jason,

I would agree if Ktb didn't say this: "it jumps around and makes the most awful noises when it is running." It could have bad tub bearings or have other issues. If this is the case the fix would be difficult and expensive and probably not worth it.

 

[knitwits1975]

Could you keep us posted? Good Luck. I'd fix old Betsy if it were my choice.