A radially mounted motor is provided in a closed system fluid balance ring for high rotational speed washing machines. The motor is mounted at an orientation of 90.degree. relative to the rotational axis of the washing machine spinner. Such an orientation prevents adverse effects on the motor contacts from centrifugal forces generated by the rotating spinner. A 90.degree. orientation also eliminates deflection of the motor shaft and excessive friction on the motor bearings. The angular orientation of the motor assures proper functioning of the closed system fluid balance ring of the washing machine. The balance system also includes a valve to control movement of fluid within the ring. The valve is mounted at an angle with respect to a tangent of the spinner so as to prevent detrimental effects from the centrifugal forces of the rotating spinner.