Rusty Washing Machine Drum

Name: Sharon

Inquiry Type: Appliance repair question

Comments: I have one of those "unbreakable" Maytag washing machines. It is 24 years old, works fine, but, it is rusted around the edges and has rust holes in the drum. Is the drum replaceable or is there a paint that can refrain from further rusting?

Hi Sharon, 

I suggest you purchase the strongest rust remover you can get and soak that tub for 24 hours and then tell me if you still have rust or if it suddenly came off. Please let me know. 

Regards,

Joe Gagnon

Consumer Question: Maytag Washer/Dryer Combo

Hi, Joe,

Our Maytag washer/dryer (stacked model - 1986) has performed very well - considering it is 25 years old. Lately, the washer spin cycle doesn't seem to extract as much water as it did earlier. And the dryer sometimes tangles clothes, not allowing thorough drying to occur. Is our faithful Maytag just getting old and tired or is there some remedy we might consider - aside from purchasing a new combo. And if so,what brand/model would you recommend?

Many thanks!
Rob

A: Hi, Rob,

Thanks for your note. 

Your product is the best ever made especially in the stackable category. I believe that you need a roller kit for the motor slide assembly and 2 belts. As for the dryer, the belt may be slipping or the idler assembly is worn causing the drum not to turn fast enough. I do not suggest you replace this product. 

Regards,

Joe Gagnon

Consumer Question: Noisy Spin Cycle on Washer

Q: Hi, Joe,

I have a MAH 5500 Maytag Neptune Washer with stainless steel tub and the bearings need to be replaced. (It has a noisy spin.) I'm told it can't be done, and that I have to buy a whole new tub with bearings in place. Is it a throw away?

Thank you,
Gino

A: Hi Gino,

Thanks for your note. 

I have heard of quotes as high as $600 to do this job and the washers are not very old. As far as doing it yourself, I would suggest you call my son Mark at his business and ask him if you should attempt it. His number is 734-953-6991 and he gives some tricks of the trade.


Isn't this a shame? This washer which was once known as the best in the industry. Please let me know what happens. 

Regards,

Joe Gagnon

Consumer Question - Maytag Washer

Q: Hello Joe Gagnon,

 

I have a Maytag top loading washer, purchased in 1975 and still working fine - except for the vibration has gotten worse - similar to an unbalanced load. I have checked with a level similar to this aluminum one: Stanley 42-074 Jobmaster Aluminum Carpenter's Level in both the front-to-back, as well as side-to-side, on the top of the washing machine. It is level to within 1/32 or 1/16 of an inch. The Maytag sits on two 2x4 slats, one on the left and one on the right. These 2x4 slats sit upon the eight inch square ceramic floor tiles in laundry room.

 

You have said on the air that the rubber feet need to be inspected, either that or the floor is not level or warped. The floor has not changed and the level appliance seems to confirm that. The appliance does not "rock" when I attempt to rock it. When vibration occurs at the end of a wash cycle (during rinse and spin dry cycle), the entire applicance moved to the right about one inch.

Help!

 

Thanks,

William

A:  Hi William,

 

Thanks for the note.

 

I've just spent four days at the Novi Home Show and answered several questions just like yours. Make sure the lock nuts on the legs are tight. Change the rubber feet. Take off the front panel and inspect the springs. If all of this is ok, lets look at the floor. Put a glass of water on top of the dryer and turn on the washer. If the glass of water is shaking all over, blame the floor.

Let me know what you find please.

 

Regards,

Joe Gagnon