Well, I won't know for sure until the parts arrive, but I think the mystery has been solved. I called F&P because I had tried everything else and thought perhaps there was something wrong with the inlet valves. As it turns out, my washing machine is so old that it is one of the first ones they imported here...meaning that it has metric valve sizes instead of standard US laundry hookups!!! I ordered adapters which should hopefully arrive tomorrow, but I think that may be the problem. I'll post again to let everyone know the resolution! Thanks all!

Well, the saga continues. To make a very long story short the Affinity washer and dryer was too deep for my space. I did get a guarantee that I could return it without penalty if it did not fit. The "expert installation service" we were told about really was an in-house delivery service - nothing more. The guys put the washer in the spot and said "look see - it just fits - isn't that great". We were focused on the dryer which looked pretty hopeless so we didn't even take delivery on it. After the guys left DH took a yardstick and put it from the "pony wall" across the front of the washer where the bubble door was and only then could you tell that the bubble door actually stuck out beyond the wall. It was an optical illusion that it fit because the part of the washer adjacent to the wall fit but the middle part of the washer stuck out beyond that. Anyway, they came and picked it up on Saturday and promised us a full refund. Not sure that the paperwork has been processed - yet but I am hopeful. As you know we are looking for the largest capacity we can get with the smallest depth. Now we have been recommended the following:- and I would love feedback: Washer: Bosch Axxis WAS24460UC 3.4 CU capacity only .1 smaller than the Affinity. Dryer: Axxis WTV76100US - 3.9 CU - This dryer is quite a bit smaller than the Affinity - I am concerned that this dryer can work as well on drying the same capacity coming out of a 3.4 CU washer?? I wash alot of blankets and quilts (queen size) and it is important to me to be able to wash and dry these. I am going to see these models in the store and will bring my puffiest queen size quilt to see how it fits. Would love any feedback.... Back to square one - but I'm hoping this one will do the trick....

Thanks for coming back. Sorry for your troubles. Always advise cheap/easy attempt first. Sorry didn't work. Your plumber has handled this countless times before. Quick/easy for him plus a little more expense for you. When he's done, suggest floodcheck hoses for your connection. Link below. Get the gooseneck connectors, too. Here is a link that might be useful: My recommended washer hoses.

Hey randy427! Thx for your response. We ended up cutting a small "u" figure in the upper back side of the cabinet and the hoses sit in the groove of the "u" which I still have to line w something o the water lines/tubing doesnt rub against the wood. We ended up having plenty of room thank goodness. I will pos pics so other folks my learn this also. Yes our Electrician is coming back to do all the finish stuff... breakers etc...when everyone else is GONE!