Hello,

I need advice concerning this washer, which I believe is over 30 years old. Although this machine had been violently loud and seemed to leave clothes considerably wetter than it should, it nonetheless had continued to work and I had been using it regularly. Then, recently, I was cleaning the area inside the machine just below the lid when the gasket (not sure of the proper term; the plastic and metal ring seen in the photo) came loose, resulting in the condition that can be seen in the photos I attached. I am afraid to even try using the machine now.

I would be most grateful to anyone who could advise me regarding this situation. What would be involved in repairing this condition? Would it even be realistic to find the needed part(s)? If it would, what about the cost-- both for the part(s) as well as whatever labor would be necessary? Would it even pay?

Thank you for taking the time to read my post.

Thank you very much, brobriffin, for replying and for identifying the parts.

Just to be clear, it was only when I started trying to clean underneath/behind the shield cover that it (and its metal ring) came out of place, resulting in the condition seen in the photos.

Two follow-up questions, if I may:

1.) Is there any chance that the existing, old shield cover and ring might be able to be put back into their proper place?

2.) Dare I try running the machine in its current condition (with the shield cover out-of-place)? Were I to do so, what should I expect? What is the worse that could happen?

Thanks again.