Build an Off-Grid Dasher Washing Machine

[@Cougrat]

On a sunny warm day leave a long dark hose coiled up in the sun, slowly filling the tub. Cheap hot water!

[@catezaida8081]

We did that for filling the bathtub as well. When I was a kid, I was the youngest, so I had to take my bath last after everyone else had used the water. Now that I am on my own, I actually get to have hot AND clean water. Gotta love living off the grid!

[@cherriemckinstry131]

@@catezaida8081 I hear that! My family had a claw foot tub and it was so nice to sunk down inside ... aaaahhhhhh.. the dark hose idea us great. I know I have to run any hose a minute or else water with hot water.. and the black one is always twice as hot!

[@heidiann2435]

GREAT idea!

[@loriekaczmarek9788]

I have a ibc tote 275 gal with a solar pump going to a pex coil water heater, then up to my washer with a shut off on both. Also have a pump going from ibc tote to a shut off then to the washer. Figgure, if I'm gonna have it set up off grid. Might as well be comfortable with hot and cold water. :)

[@kimdearing3051]

genius.

[@catezaida8081]

I have been wanting one of these for some time now, but purchasing them from Lehman's at the cost of $1,149.00 is more than I can afford. I never even thought to make one on my own! Thank you for this video and the plans and explanations! I am totally doing this!

[@TeresaV]

Exactly!

[@mstexasg6243]

Funny you say that I was just looking at the Lehman's today then saw the price...DOH!

[@sylviaivie7047]

Me too. I just bought a flat-backed rain barrel to make one from

[@katie7748]

That's the one I've had my eye on for a while. Maybe someday...maybe...it's definitely what I'd consider a luxury item so I might not. For now, I'll just make my own.

[@tooshieg2059]

This woman and her build are inspirational and motivating me to build one. Thanks for sharing. The info was very clear and easy to understand. The photography got up close enough for us to see exactly what to to do. Thank you for sharing.

[@danam.8709]

This 'dasher' aka "james" washer is wonderful and a great copy of this very old design. And extra applause for the economy of your project compared to Lehmans' version that is smaller and comes in at Over $1,200. I know it's been years since this was made but, Keep up the marvelous work.

[@jackdunn7441]

I am thinking instead of the metal I could make one out of a blue plastic barrel. This one she made is fantastic!!

[@keithjohnson5190]

I think that that might be a good idea. Let us see how it comes out if you do it.

[@bethcatt4044]

I was thinking the same thing great minds think alike

[@robynperdieu3434]

It won't last as long.

[@pamelagarnica4415]

I thought the same. 😂

[@BobBob-il2ku]

KZbin channel name “Kristin wright” Video titled DIY James washing machine made one from a 55gallon plastic drum

[@mikevalen7837]

Just built mine, I am going to insert 3/4” dowels into the pvc to stiffen it some. Also got the same wringer and its a beast. Thanks so much, we are moving off grid and this will serve us well! Mike

[@CorJenFarm]

Awesome! That's a really great idea to put the dowel into the pvc too. We wish you well in your off gridding.

[@happyautumn3938]

Mike, will you share the plans? Please :)

[@terrell48]

If you get schedule 40 PVC you should not need the dowel rods inserted that PVC is quite strong they also make heavier PVC than the schedule 40 I made a comment above about my concerns on the pvc wearing on the pivot points and maybe needing to use a different material than pvc for those pieces that pivot and maybe making some bushings for these pivot points out of metal like copper tubing or conduit pipe

[@connied8374]

Mike, where did you get the wringer for the washing machine?

[@jackwillie2729]

We're is the windmill to run the contraption...

[@Poor.Sausage]

This is an excellent design but the plastic pipe will quickly break, as it is not designed to be a mechanical moving part. The weak points will be the right angle fittings. Some aluminium or galvanized tubing would be far stronger, excellent for those heavy clothing items such as denim. Perhaps some light weight scaffold poles would be perfect. Secondly, consider upgrading the silicone caulking to marine silicone caulking as it is designed to be submerged under water and will not go mouldy after time. A plastic tarp and bungee cord would protect the machine if stored outside. Great video, I'm gonna build one :)) thank you so much.

[@ramonaruthhurst1280]

Thank you so very much. Hi from Texas USA. ❤. I grew up helping my mom wash clothes with a wringer washer, out side in the yard, I loved it. I can't find one any where. May God bless you and yours for this wonderful 🥰 machine. My husband and I are getting started on making one of these machines just as soon as possible.🎉❤. Again, thank you so much.

[@danachoate5361]

I love this!! So glad to see something easy enough for me to build

[@eatwhatukiii2532]

Thanks for this video. This is really cool. I like the blue barrel idea that someone in comments suggested, if you don’t mind it looking “less vintage”, because the plastic barrels can often be had cheap or even free. Plus, if a person is REALLY strapped for cash (living off-grid) they could forego the expensive ringer and just give a quick hand-wringing then have a rack to drip-dry the clothes for half an hour before hanging on the clothesline. ALSO, I just remembered my big yellow mop bucket has a side-press wringer, so now my brain gears are really turning🤓 I spent the entire summer hand washing and line-drying my clothes, barefoot in the sunshine with the bees and birds all around, and I considered doing laundry as part of my “outdoor therapy”❤

[@resurrectionsunday4164]

Nicely done. And it can fit the bedding too! Bonus points for that!

[@esperanzaochoa9726]

Debra, Thank you for sharing and demonstrating how you made this dasher washing machine. I find you to be inspiring and industrious to other women, with your CAN DO attitude. God bless you!

[@bindiberry6280]

Thank you for the sharing! Your PVC-pipe built aggitator Inspires me to modiify an old tub just sitting in my backyard.

[@MyBearhugger]

Thanks so much! Just in time. I was looking for someone who knew how to build these and, better yet, show others. Awesome! Gonna look around for the materials and build one.

[@vickieshead3980]

How has this stood up in using it for 2022? Would you change anything on it that we should know?

[@arthurbolton9888]

Such a great idea! I have started this project and will build the exact same way. So simple! I’ll be using the 1-3/4” schedule 80 grey PVC piping and reinforce them with hardwood dowels. Nice off grid appliance when there are very few options for laundry.

[@terrell48]

yes I thought the schedule 40 would be adequate but the schedule 80 is very strong and the dowels are probably not needed

[@arthurbolton9888]

@@terrell48 You are right. I finished the project as well. Followed her description as close as I could. Would you like a material list with prices?

[@esperanzaochoa9726]

@@arthurbolton9888 I would love your material list ! How do you like your results, and what did you do differently? I have no experience in building, but am encouraged to try. Was your handle pole detachable , as I didn't see it when she stored it as an end table in her living room. It would be great to post your pics if you can. Thank you

[@arthurbolton9888]

I have tried twice unsuccessfully to upload my material list and cost.

[@destination...diamond3892]

@@arthurbolton9888 can you take a screenshot of your price list and post it as a public post to Facebook and then copy and paste the link to it here for us?

[@blucow6677]

the preciseness of this video is incredible 👏

[@BobBob-il2ku]

I’m thinking same design but use a 55 gallon drum cut in half

[@sharonkasper5126]

Thank you for your video and the American made wringer information. Nice build but PVC pipe might need to be steel against all that torque. All else looks real good and should last a while. Thanks again for your effort.

[@connied8374]

That is amazing! Thorough description and instructions on how to do everything. You have truly inspired me to give it a try!❤❤

[@sharanderson6338]

Neat design! Invention is always born out of necessity. Thank you for sharing!

[@carlashuler5004]

This is very inspiring. Great job on the video. I'm looking forward to the plans. Even if you could afford one of Lehman's washer, they have been backordered for MONTHS. Carla

[@terrell48]

Neat machine, the weak spot I see is the area where the agitator pivots in each end, the PVC will wear out in time I expect, you might need to make spare pieces when you make the original parts or I expect you should make a bushing out of some copper tubing or steel tubing and perhaps make the shaft going through the hole out of steel tubing or similar product like maybe conduit pipe maybe

[@esperanzaochoa9726]

Where could one purchase this bushing? Or how would one make this as I am a newbie. Thank you

[@annaalva2320]

Super good idea. I wondered the same thing. I think you could just get a copper fitting a teensy bit bigger and slide the PVC through?

[@eugeneostrander7634]

Very good job building you washtub with PVC agitator. I like it.... excellent ideas❗

[@BibleBeliever-hv8du]

God bless her for sharing this with us.

[@samanthashaw8329]

If I take 2 sawhorses and a rain barrel cut in half and mount the barrel to 2 sawhorses in between them it'll look the same as you have right in the beginning.

[@CorJenFarm]

Sure, you could do that. Just not sure how sturdy and stable it would be for handling the "wash cycle". If it's not heavy enough, the whole thing will want to "walk" with the wash motion, I'm thinking. But, you may have a good idea.

[@samanthashaw8329]

@@CorJenFarm probably doesn't have to be a plastic barrel. I'm trying to figure out the cheapest most cost effective way to get our laundry done with things I might be able to get easily. Right now I have no income so I have to use what is in the property or what I can easily access. Something that might get our clothes cleaner than the bathtub and scrub brush or 5 gallon bucket and plunger.

[@CorJenFarm]

Yes, for sure and I am ALL for using what we have. I would love to see what you come up with too. I am sure it would inspire so many others and be such an encouragement too!

[@aaronkeil4412]

I was thinking the same thing, those blue plastic barrels or sometimes they are white ones food grade are very thick and sturdy, I have 2 white ones 30 gals for catching rain off the backside of the roof and they are thick plastic.

[@samanthashaw8329]

I am too right now it's the bath tub or 5 gallon bucket washing by hand the past year

[@jbartoni1964]

Very nice video. I am curious on how well that schedule 40 pvc pipe is holding up after one year.

[@annaalva2320]

I love this so much! I want to make one! Just a side note to be very careful with that wringer, because my mother remembers a girl got her arm in one somehow and sometimes they got fingers in there, and the injuries were just horrible. This is great for off grid and emergencies, but my mom always did say modern appliances freed women and girls up from absolute drudgery. She remembered doing tons of laundry and hanging it all up to dry. She was the oldest of ten kids, born the year after WW2, and she was so happy when they got an electric washer and dryer. I however would love to stop paying 80 bucks every 2 weeks at the laundry mat. California is always expensive to do laundry because the water supply is often not enough.

[@JaeJaeG]

I'm so impressed! This is so amazing in every way! You're my hero. 💪

[@laveniashaw5604]

A commendable design. I will use a blue plastic drum for durability. Is the 1 inch pvc pipe stiff enough?

[@ZonaEastham]

I love this you are so smart blessing us all with this design!!!!!!

[@kirkdsnyder3844]

That is a very cool design! And she took into consideration key-points that made it better. Where can I get the plan and materials list?

[@CorJenFarm]

Hi there. Yes, this is a great design. Unfortunately I don't have plans. Her intent was to provide enough info on the video to get you going with the essential details. But she doesn't have plans.

[@kimberlycobb2956]

Can you make video on how to make the washing machine agitator? Look pretty neat. The end product.

[@sarahmiranda7130]

How long would the PVC last with the pressure and tension of use? Also, thank you for this video....I've wanted to build one of these for almost 10 years. You did a great job!

[@CorJenFarm]

Thanks! Glad you liked the video! Hopefully the pvc will last quite some time. If you're planning to build this washer, you might want to use the super thick grey pvc. I think it's called Schedule 80 pvc. Lowes has it. That's what I would have used had I known about the grey stuff before I started. Or you can use galvanized pipes. Good luck! Send pics to Jen's Corjen KZbin channel when you build it and definitely check out that wringer! Thanks again! Blessings, Debra

[@cjam3660]

uhhh most important thing, the how to get the full roundness of the wooden ends of the tub ?

[@annaalva2320]

Just use pencil and a string from the center of the plywood. Just like a super huge compass.

[@MsHomesteader]

Thank you for sharing, but can't find On the Path Homestead, can you share a link?

[@CorJenFarm]

Hey there @MsHomesteader Debra hasn't been able to start her channel yet, so that's why I have her video here. Hopefully she'll have her channel up at some point.

[@MsHomesteader]

@@CorJenFarm Okay thank you, please let us know when she gets it up and thank you for sharing her build story

[@laureljeanr-boltz3321]

Big fan of your washer and wringer! Thanks

[@sarahmiranda7130]

My husband runs a heating and air supply warehouse....unfortunately getting stainless steel isn't an option. All they have is galvanized. If I got galvanized and coated it like the wood, would that work just as good?

[@CorJenFarm]

The sheet metal is galvanized and it will work great. I used stainless steel screws.

[@sarahmiranda7130]

@@CorJenFarm thank you

[@moshkateer9595]

Any plans that can be downloaded? Folks would sure like to have the plans and material list.

[@CorJenFarm]

Hello, unfortunately there are no downloadable plans for this build. Debra created this version herself and the only specifics we have is the information in the video.

[@CorJenFarm]

I spoke with Debra and she will be writing up the step by step instructions for this build. Give her a couple weeks and I'll update you on how to get them.

[@seattlemom41]

@@CorJenFarmAny luck with written plans for Debra's off-grid washing machine yet? Please tell her we're so appreciative of her!!

[@irenerawson853]

How's that wringer on buttons? Some wringers broke the buttons then some were made to be kind to buttons and zippers.

[@CorJenFarm]

Great question 🤔 I'll check with Debra on her experience with buttons and zippers using her wringer.

[@CorJenFarm]

Ok, so Debra said she had no issues with buttons or zippers using this wringer. She said you may need to adjust the closeness of the rollers to help. Of course you can check with the manufacturer too on specific concerns. Hope that helps.

[@annaalva2320]

I didn't know they were adjustable... thank you.

[@keithjohnson5190]

I wanted to add that you did a great job with the construction, are you still using it?

[@MisterDivineAdVenture]

Boy - I wish everybody in my life was so visionary and determined.

[@juanitaspeers8026]

Does it leak from the plywood where the agitator is moving through?

[@CorJenFarm]

If I remember correctly, it does let some water out. However, that part is high enough so that you can still run full load with minimal water loss.

[@JLBiddle]

So, cold water?

[@connied8374]

I love the wringer! Can you disclose where you got it, or did you build it yourself?

[@RobertFulton-o9j]

Wheelbarrow handles would work well

[@wowtv101]

I have never seen someone be so indeepth in a gow to video !!!! It's great !!!! I love it 😀

[@The_Bronze_Baroness]

How are the holes sealed around the pipes sticking from outside on the sides of the wood? Is the sealant used around the pipes on the outside? How big are the holes drilled for the pipe and drain to stick out?

[@CorJenFarm]

Hoping to get the plans for you soon.

[@haynpoidog]

I don't think her setup needs to be sealed perfectly as she is using it outside. unless being used in an application where no leaks can occur like in a snowy location or a basement, properly fitting rubber grommets should work. at 12 minutes I noticed her water does not reach the pass through point of the pvc.

[@The_Bronze_Baroness]

@@CorJenFarm Any update on the build plans?

[@CorJenFarm]

@@The_Bronze_Baroness I actaully spoke with her last night and she wanted me to let you know she is for sure working on the plans. She does work a full time job, etc. Thanks for checking in. I don't have a time frame but thank you for your patience.

[@The_Bronze_Baroness]

@@CorJenFarm Thanks for the update!

[@peggytoes99]

FANTASTIC!!! Do you sell a materials list and instruction book???

[@CorJenFarm]

Good afternoon. Unfortunately, I do not provide the instructions/steps for this build. I was hoping we could get those and make them available, but it just doesn't seem like it's going to pan out. The intention was to provide enough info in the video, such as measurements, to get you on the track.

[@happyautumn3938]

Are there any written plans? I can't find a link anywhere....I'm a lousy builder without some written info...please!

[@CorJenFarm]

Unfortunately I dont have any written instructions. She was going to provide them but didn't. She really just intended to provide info in the video.

[@happyautumn3938]

@@CorJenFarm that's really sad.

[@annaalva2320]

You can try building a small scale one from recycled things in the kitchen like an oatmeal container and etc. And then scale it up.

[@Scoutdogs]

Brilliant! Thanks for sharing!

[@foechicken8023]

I would think a bigger pvc pipe with holes drilled in tonalow the water to swish in and out might aid in the cleaning action.

[@TheNicestAssholeYouWillNvrMeet]

See mine

[@gospeltractguy1126]

Are there any step by step instruction plans for this washing machine? I would love to have all the measurements. in the video you didn't give the measurements of the PVC piping or the legs. if you did I must have missed them.thanks

[@BobBob-il2ku]

5x 90 degree elbows, 4x end caps, 10ft 1inch PVC?

[@nuchp1555]

How about just building the agitator for the bathtub aside from using the plunger?

[@adventurehawksancientharmony]

You have no links to Debra’s channel and I can’t find it in my search. Can you share a link?

[@CorJenFarm]

Im so sorry. She was going to start her channel but decided not to.

[@rustic-man]

You said she was going to come up with plans. Did she ever? If so, can you provide a link?

[@TheNicestAssholeYouWillNvrMeet]

See mine

[@rustic-man]

@@TheNicestAssholeYouWillNvrMeet I watched the video. I can't find a link to the parts list and dimensions. I'd like to make one.

[@ascosche]

Where can I find clear cut written instructions for building this?

[@CorJenFarm]

Unfortunately all I have is what's in the video. Debra and a friend planned it out and built it, however she doesn't have any written steps or plans. I tried to find info on Dasher washers, but it seems hard to find. Hope you can find more information.

[@CorJenFarm]

Ok, so I spoke with Debra and she is writing up instructions for this build. Give her a couple weeks and I'll update you on how you can get them.

[@dtriesch62]

@@CorJenFarm would like instructions as well please

[@nk9708]

I would love the instructions as well. Thank you so much for sharing!!

[@happyautumn3938]

@@CorJenFarm please! Can I have the written instructions....I'm a lousy builder, it would be so helpful to have exact cutting measurements..thank you!

[@ascosche]

Did you ever get clear instructions for this? Checking back just in case!!! 😊

[@CorJenFarm]

Unfortunately not. Im so sorry 😞

[@eduardonieto2355]

That is a cool machine Mrs I love it ❤👍🇺🇸.

[@kimdearing3051]

if you attach that agitator to a stationary bike, it will save on your back.

[@rachidakhiat81]

ٱلة جميلة ورائعة لتصبين الملابس والرياضة في نفس الوقت ، مسيرة موفقة ومزيد من التألق.

[@CorJenFarm]

Hello, I cannot read your note. Can you translate into English please?

[@bennyhill3642]

An Awesome video from some Awesome Ladies!!!😇😍😁😇

[@sarahmiranda7130]

Any update on how this has held up?

[@TheNicestAssholeYouWillNvrMeet]

See mine

[@disable-worldsview-butable6613]

Wow... very interesting! Awesome! Thank you!

[@bethcatt4044]

I learned to do laundry with an old fashioned wringer washing machine

[@valdezfamily1128]

Update? I'm confused on a few things

[@electronicscaos]

That would be great in my trailer.

[@malisinimicus4358]

Great job!

[@jdeming8030]

Amazing!!!

[@melissahoney8317]

Yeah but you got to think about the weather

[@RETRIBUTION_TIME]

11:29 😎

[@FarmerKen355]

clever and well done

[@arthurbolton9888]

Sorry. I meant the 1-1/4” piping.

[@vernabryant2894]

Smart lady.

[@livilou6165]

I can’t find Debra’s channel!

[@daisydaisy1696]

We need updates

[@streetpunk99]

Does she have her own youtube channel?

[@CorJenFarm]

@streetpunk99 Unfortunately she never started her channel 😕

[@streetpunk99]

@@CorJenFarm that's really sad. She's very entertaining

[@TheNicestAssholeYouWillNvrMeet]

See mine

[@TheNicestAssholeYouWillNvrMeet]

​@@CorJenFarmsee mine, many posts too

[@MYtinyPLace]

what are the cuts out Measurements for everything

[@CorJenFarm]

Hey there. Unfortunately all we have is what is in the video.

[@MYtinyPLace]

@@CorJenFarm ok thank you

[@CorJenFarm]

I spoke with Debra and she will be writing up the step by step instructions for this build. Give her a couple weeks and I'll update you on how to get them.

[@MYtinyPLace]

@@CorJenFarm thank you so much I really appreciate that ..

[@souzou1000]

Love it❤

[@buditron3681]

Good and useful video ...... 👍

[@marciaford7882]

Put your self thru the ringer

[@abdelkaderelbachir3817]

Amazing

[@FormWerkstoff]

I would build a wooden wheel or something like that, so not much will come of it. So similar to a washing drum today. Ich würde ein Holzrad bauen oder ähnlich, so wird da nicht viel daraus. Also ähnlich einer Wäschtrommel heute.

[@poetmaggie1]

The drain should not dump water right next to the washer.

[@caseyoliver165]

Well that's a Nice washer and to Tell you the truth that washer why washes clothes way better than the high efficiency washers they have out today with all that gadgets and gizmos and itunes and whistles and Bells and all that crap and it's a very simple machine indeed and that works well and you can't beat that and it might take a little bit of work but i think it will be just fine.

[@juliewilliams489]

This is great. So much more practical than many others. Putting it on wheels is a good idea. If using wood bord make sure it's marine ply not normal ply wood. I would use galvanised piping and joints instead of pvc for strength and UV stability, especally being used outside. But pvc would be lighter. I wonder if a 44 galen drum would work for the body? How did you do the swivel joints through the wood so water tight but move? Love this design 😍

[@mygarden365]

Concerning the swivel joint - this is not underwater - so it does not need to be sealed.

[@juliewilliams489]

@@mygarden365 thankyou 🤗

[@DavidHuber63]

Clever

[@sophielily2015]

🎉🎉🎉

[@lilyberr9098]

😍😍😍😍

[@naomifourie9016]

Plywood cant handle water

[@abdelkaderelbachir3817]

You can buy any kind of water treated wood they add a chemical to it in the factory to make it waterproof or if you have just regular would you can get you varnish and give it a good coat or two

[@pahleviibnutsani981]

❤

[@peggychristman5878]

Your agitator handle is not ergonomically correct at all. Too much unnecessary stress on the body.

[@Chakwaina]

I see so much for the clothes to catch and tear on.

[@donnaserrisfleming9748]

Who really built this. Would love to see an instructional video how to build.

[@dtriesch62]

She said she did, why would you say such a thing. I am also a very capable woman and am building one myself. When you don’t have someone else to rely on you learn to do a lot yourself. We are very capable if we just get out there and do it.

[@matthewshannongreen1900]

This is a rude comment from someone who says I can’t more than I can I suspect

[@jackiesnowflake2255]

I'm 70 years old and I can build it! In fact I'm going to. Already built my own coop by my self and no help. When your basicly on your own, I have a husband but he can't do anything any more, you learn!

[@gritskennedy5007]

$375¿¡!! That might as well be $1,000,000,000,000 to us! So basically you are doing this not out of necessity but as a hobby to try out what it feels like living off grid not because you cant use your washing machine and not because you cant afford a new washing machine because it is much cheaper in florida than where i live in ca California and i found numerous machines for $327¡ so why would anyone spend almost $400 for a labor intensive manual back breaker?

[@MinReiSakato]

Okay I also thought it was pricey for the labor involved but it will still save money honestly. It's a lot upfront but would be worth it if you're willing to put in the labor. First of all, it doesn't use electricity so it would cut that cost down pretty significantly especially since the wringer and the sun are the dryers. Probably enough that over the course of a year you'd save significant money. Second, if it breaks it would be a LOT cheaper to fix it herself than getting a repair person to come out for a normal washer or dryer. Plus it would probably last longer overall. So I wouldn't be surprised if it saves her thousands at least over the course of its lifespan.

[@CorJenFarm]

It may seem like a hobby for now, but you dont wait for a crisis to get here before you get ready. Either way, she's preparing and wanted to share with others. It may just be necessary one day.

[@jackiesnowflake2255]

When shitake hits the fan your going to be glad you have this

[@annaalva2320]

You actually can get stuff in California cheaper than Lowe's, by going down to the landfill. California loves recycling and usually has a little store where they sell salvage items super cheap. My are has those huge drums that are food grade for about 20 to 30 dollars. You could split one in half, and use some salvage 2 x4 s for legs and they have tons of that and PVC super cheap. Depends really on if you are willing to use materials that you might have to sort through and clean up. Most of what they sell is in ok condition though.

[@marciaford7882]

Put your face in the machine

[@karafreeman3873]

Video much too long.U should cut your speaking shorter.

[@sisterlavender1188]

That's not clean. Put some baking soda in there at least n actually turn it more than 4 times. Goodness though..

[@CorJenFarm]

I'm so sorry. She was going to make her channel, but decided not to. That's why I shared her video.

[@Dotalina33]

I thought the same thing but this was a brief demonstration. If she had done a wash in real time you would have gotten bored.