Zanussi FJ1093 – worth replacing bearings?

Our Zanussi FJ1093 is making a terrible racket on spin and I suspect the bearings have gone.

After 19 years of service I guess this was inevitable. I’ve done a few repairs over the years, drain pump, door switch but a bearing replacement looks daunting.

Ordinarily I’d be using this as an opportunity for a shiny new model but having researched potential replacements I’m just getting more depressed by what’s available today. All this talk of sealed tubs and a throwaway society and problems with warranties being honoured I’m beginning to wonder if going for a repair is not a bad option after all.

Yes I know a 4.5Kg capacity and a 1000 spin speed is old hat but too be honest it does a great 40 and 60 degree wash and I’m not bothered by how long it takes.

What do reckon a reasonable charge for a bearing replacement will be? Is anyone still prepared to work on these old beasts? Is it likely the last few washes on a failing bearing have caused other problems and I’d just be throwing good money away?

Thank you in advance for any shared wisdom.