Whirlpool, Kenmore washers: belt drive vs. direct drive

[KEYBOARDTEK]

My 5 year old Whirlpool Cabrio washer with a direct drive motor  has error code 51 appearing. The tech found the 1/4 inch hex bolt on the bottom of the rotor was loose. After tightening the bolt,  error 51 still appears during regular cycles, but runs OK through gentle and bulky cycle. The tech is recommending a $530 motor assembly. Is his motor diagnoses the likely problem? Could it also be a bad main board? I am shopping for a new washer, but which has the least trouble, direct drive motors or belt drive motors?

[Thirstytech]

model #?

[Hiroshi]

If you have been using liquid detergent, you likely need a new drive shaft and bearings. In the hundreds of these I have fixed, I never replaced the rotor and stator. Secondarily, only one unit (out of at least 50) that gave me the Motor Rotor Position sensor error actually needed a new MRPS sensor. If the spin tub can't slide smoothly up and down on the motor shaft, you will get motor position and imbalanced load errors- the spin tub will be slightly crooked and the control interprets it incorrectly. Once you install a new shaft kit, switch to Powdered Detergent to prolong the life of the new parts. Don't listen to the TV kids, Powder is "H.E." too. Part number: w10435302

[evaappliance]

speed queen is the best new washer on the market, 3 year part & labor warranty .  

[Hiroshi]

No doubt, I agree completely evaappliance.  They are still built old-skool with a mechanical timer, stainless tub, and Merikan know-how!