The Fresh Loaf

A Community of Amateur Bakers and Artisan Bread Enthusiasts.

Counterfeit mixer?

Staleloaf's picture
Staleloaf

Counterfeit mixer?

My wife purchased a kitchenaid stand mixer for a back up about three years ago as my backup from Amazon. Trying to get parts (already).  This is far different machine than my old one that was made by Hobart.  On the bottom are two different stickers with TWO different serial numbers?  The bowl has a much poorer finish, and the new machine bogs down badly on doughs I've made for years.  Bowl is made in India, but websites claim they are still made in America.  Has my wife been bamboozled?  I finally had to tell her.  I appreciate any knowledge you could share.  I have no idea which brand to buy now.  

Staleloaf's picture
Staleloaf
Staleloaf's picture
Staleloaf
DanielCoffey's picture
DanielCoffey

The colour certainly matches the model code. A quick message to KitchenAid with the serial numbers will probably get its authenticity checked for you.

Staleloaf's picture
Staleloaf

Thank You!  I seem to have found the correct site.  I'm waiting to hear back.  I should have repaired my old one, before I tossed it.  

DanielCoffey's picture
DanielCoffey

One thing - are you using the mixer for dough at the correct speed?

I am unsure about the restrictions on your specific model but mine says to use a specific (fairly low) speed when using the dough hook. Going too high will overload the motor.

Staleloaf's picture
Staleloaf

I am using the correct speed.  I never go past 2 on the settings.  Same as the old one.  I usually just use the first anyway.  So if it was honestly the same torque, that shouldn't be a problem  I'm sure I will hear back soon.  In the mean time, I've been looking at reviews, and see the power issue is well known between folks that have had been both in the past 30 years.  

I may do some welding today.  I have enough stainless laying around to build something without breaking quarantine.  

Staleloaf's picture
Staleloaf

Ok, so I just got off the phone with whirlpool. No mixer has its own serial number.  They simply put a # on a mixer depending on the country they sell them in.  As far as being made in America?  This is not true.  Bowls can be made in China, India, or in the past other countries.  The two reps I spoke with were friendly and honest. Can't say the same for kitchen aid unfortunately.  Some originals should begin to pop up as we begin to see estate sales after the pandemic. Thank you Daniel coffee.  

There is no resolution.  Just a loss on our part.   I was given advice although.  Open the box and inspect everything thoroughly before purchasing.  I'm not certain how to do this when ordering online.  I'm sure more savy bakers understand this. 

Camarie's picture
Camarie

I've stopped buying KA mixers. Nowadays, you don't know what you are getting, or from who!!!!

Staleloaf's picture
Staleloaf

I hear you now!  Lol.  I live in a small town, and at the social distancing square, I have found out I'm a fool.  Seems everyone else knows.  I'm ordering a commercial mixer.  My orange one is in the recycle bin.  I actually tore it down some.  The pin that holds the head on is even machined too small.  No wonder the pin comes loose all the time. Thanks again.  You guys and gals are great!  

Camarie's picture
Camarie

Get an Avantco or the Globe SOp05 or the Globe SOP 08. Hobart is too damn expensive!!

Staleloaf's picture
Staleloaf

Globe sp05 it is.  658 bucks!  Wow. You just saved me some serious cash.  800 watts too.  It must be branding that keep the kitchenaid brand afloat.  Shipping may take awhile, which is understandable right now.  Thanks again!  

Camarie's picture
Camarie

You're welcome!!

A commercial mixer has more bang for the buck!! It is made with parts that are much tougher that the regular home mixers. And you'll get more longevity from them.