Murphy Sucks!

**Josephhgoins** · 01-21-2010, 09:41 AM

So if you have read some of my other posts you know that my Emergency fund is depleted right now.

The other day I was washing clothes (5 loads every 2 weeks) when my washer started making the most annoying high pitch squeal. I finally tore it apart last night and with the help of a professional know that I need a new transmission for my washer. The part alone is $175.00 and then it will take me a few hours to install it.

I guess it could be worse, it could have been the transmission in my car, but dang, couldn't this have waited until my Tax check was here or something?

P.S. would you just buy a new washer, a "new" used washer or fix this one?

**Russ** · 01-21-2010, 09:48 AM

Search for a used one first. Check Craigslist.
You'll never knwo whats out there until you search.

**kimmy4433** · 01-21-2010, 10:01 AM

I too would search around for a used one. Not only on craigslist, but freecycle.org too. Heck if you can get a free one (might be older) but in good working order, why spend the 175.00 for the part?

Not sure but in MI we have a maytag store that also sells used applances.

**Libby** · 01-21-2010, 10:21 AM

Fix it. You're handy right? You know this washer inside and out by now and any new to you via craigslist/kijiji may have hidden problems or may break down shortly after you own it and could cost more then $175.

**Greebo** · 01-21-2010, 11:19 AM

Been there - we opted for new - cheap and new.

**WV_mom_of2** · 01-21-2010, 11:32 AM

I got a brand new washer for 350.00 at Sears this past spring. I'd judge what to do by how old the one you have is. Mine was 16 years old and had been used alot. I opted to just buy a new one rather than even look at fixing the other one.

I'd also worry that once things like a tranmission started to go what might be next?

**frugalwarrior2** · 01-21-2010, 11:42 AM

DEpending on how old the washer is I would fix it.
When I replaced my old Sears washer I was disappointed in the Maytag. Certainly not made as well. Certainly, Don't hold as much. And I don't think it cleans as well. Other than that it's shiny?? Second rinse it currently busted.
I would also price compare. I get a lot of parts from both a local guy and off the internet. You can still haggle too.

My thinking is: I don't want to buy someone elses headaches and I at least know what to expect of the old mess. I was all set to start saving for those fancy uprights when it came out about the mildew/mold prob. they were having.

**Lady_V** · 01-21-2010, 11:49 AM

Start cranking!

I have a portable washer, (I hate using the common area machines) and there is 3 of us here...

For your consideration -- Clicky

But, if I was limited to a) fix old machine or b) buy a cheap/new machine... I would buy a new one. Even cheap ones have SOME sort of warranty.

**Rebookie** · 01-21-2010, 11:52 AM

I am one of those "buy new" people. Because you just don't know how people treat and maintain their machines. I am meticulous with my washer/dryer. It's one of my pet peeves. But everyone isn't like me.

**ladytoysdream** · 01-21-2010, 12:03 PM

Whenever the price of parts is anywhere near half or more of new, I would buy new if I could afford it. Check craigslist. Or a local appliance service type store, where you can buy new, or refurbished.
Always make sure you get a brand name you can get local parts and service for. Less headaches.
Check the newspaper for estate sales or a moving sale for a used washer.

Ask your mom back for some money she borrowed from you...........

**my4littlebuffaloes** · 01-21-2010, 12:07 PM

We were in the same boat this fall (except our repair was going to be $500). We looked for used for a week or so and couldn't find anything decent at a decent price. Anything decent and they wanted almost what a new one would cost. We opted for new. We got one of the cheapest front loaders out there (I do a lot of laundry) and have been very happy with it.

BTW Murphy has been here too. Plumbing, well pump, computer, etc. It sucks. Hope you get your EF built back up soon.

**Debbie-cat** · 01-21-2010, 01:22 PM

I would check Craigslist. There were three washers just yesterday for free! Otherwise I would fix it yourself. Good luck!

**Josephhgoins** · 01-24-2010, 04:09 AM

Well after some searching and figuring, I realized that I have a 2 speed washer. The first speed works most things and the second is a high speed spin to get out as much water as possible. As one of my challanges to myself this year was to airdry my clothes to almost dry and then put in the dryer to fluff and remove lint. This really won't effect me too much. I will just need to let them air dry longer.

My hope and plan is to make due and save up for the nice new washer and dryer set (my dryer is alvacado green). We shall see if this washer lasts that long, if not there are several companies locally on craigslist that sell refurbished ones for $150 and the local Re-Store has used ones with out refurbishment for less than $100.

P.S. I wish I could sleep now.

**Josephhgoins** · 02-11-2010, 02:37 PM

So, I go to wash clothes last week and realized that if I use the delicate spin cycle it dosen't kick into high gear, and I don't have to stand with it. So Win there.

And then today I wasn't paying attention and washed clothes on the regular cycle. Magically it has fixed itself. I do not know how, just happy that it did. I washed a second load on the regular cycle on purpose, just to make sure.

Thanks for everyones positive thoughts!!

**scooby8themall** · 02-11-2010, 05:29 PM

Interesting how those things happen like that , last fall my cell phone flew off my seat while I going around a curve and landed in a cup ( from MacDonald s) ( I know why was the cover not on it lol) and it dried out and has worked since last Sept , 5 days ago it just died and before it died the screen went completely black .I had to order a new phone ( I travel some times 100 miles a day for work have to have a phone)
I'm glad you washing machine is back to working may be it will get you through till you tax return comes back.