Product review (5 stars): Perfect Fit: You Won't Get "Drained" By This Hose!
Maytag has enjoyed an outstanding record for performance and reliability of their appliances and quickly became the gold standard in the washing machine arena for nearly a century. Unfortunately, rapid acquisition of other brands, including Amana, contributed to Maytag introducing many cost-cutting initiatives that in the end, compromised Maytag's ability to remain competitive and the market leader for reliability.  An avalanche of consumer complaints on Maytag's low-end "Performa" and "Legacy Series" line of washing machines surfaced in combination with Maytag's "Neptune" units which were recalled by the Consumer Product Safety Commission due to fire hazard potential and a class-action lawsuit resulting in the company hemorrhaging millions in settlement costs to consumers..  This was, essentially the end of what we used to know as genuine Maytag units.

On April 1, 2006, Maytag was acquired by Whirpool Corporation and the original Maytag production plants were subsequently closed.  Whirpool then assumed all brand administration although the Maytag Brand is still used on Whirpool-designed appliances and repair parts.

This explains why when you contact Maytag (800) 344-1274, your call is routed to Whirpool Corporation in Benton Harbor, MI. and their call centers.

Thank goodness that these relatively-common service parts are still available to DIY consumers like myself.  If you are lucky enough to have an original Maytag (manufactured in Newton, IA) then I strongly suggest you repair the unit if it is cost-effective.  The three most common repairs to these units are the drain hose(s), pump and transmission/drive belts.

PROS:

1. This is a common replacement part and the genuine OEM replacement curved drain hose for many Maytag washing machines manufactured in the 1980's and 1990's-Back when Maytag meant quality build and performance and the units were built like a Sherman Tank!
2. This part is manufactured in the USA and distributed by Whirpool Corporation and supplied in a sealed plastic bag with the Whirpool name.
3. Fits properly on both ends for a perfect seal.

CONS:

1.  None-I would however, like to see the two drain hose brackets supplied with the hose as a kit.  For first time DIY's, it would also be useful to have a brief, clearly labeled diagram and simple instructions.

BOTTOM LINE:

1. I paid $13.25 for this hose through Amazon. Don't get ripped off by other appliance parts distributors that charge $18-27 for an imported item.

There is no question about the fit if you are careful in cross-referencing the correct replacement number for your Maytag appliance.  Part #: 213045 fits the Maytag A-612 and many others seamlessly. Be certain to also have your serial and "series" # available if you call and/or order online. You will find these on the riveted metal plate located on the top of your machine for top-loading machines like the A-612.

2. This is an extremely simple repair that should save you at least $85-115 on a service call.  Be sure to ask for two new mounting brackets when you purchase your drain hose. These are not included with the hose but often necessary and strongly recommended to replace if they have become rusted or seized.

3. I spray the inside of the new drain hose with a light coating of heavy-duty silicone for ease in attaching to the pump assembly.  Be careful not to force the hose onto the plastic pump assembly as it can break. Tighten each clamp gently but firmly, especially on the pump end and run the unit through a cycle or two to insure that there are no residual leaks before you put the front cover back on the machine. That's it and you should be good for another 25 years!