[kfitzpat9]

OK, so how do I know what part(s) to replace. The dishes are not getting very clean especially on the top rack, and here is what I know:

1) drain pump is working fine and appears to be no backwash
2) water temperature is fine and burns my hand- the float or emegency shut-off dealio seems fine
3) have run multiple white vinegar flushes
4) Slicer/Cutter palstic housing appears to be "marred" and may be the problem-can I simply remove the screen and cutter, pre-wash the dishes to insure no clogs occur and then test?
5) Pump motor assembly- How do I know if this is bad? Is it binary or does it start to underperform? Is there a pressure test or Amp test I can do on the motor? Does whirlpool have some diagnostic built in by pressing buttons on the panel? Do I need to work on my social life so I dont spend so much time trying to figure out how a dishwasher works, or doesn't work in this case?

Any help anyone can offer would be appreciated.

[simpest]

Originally Posted by kfitzpat9

OK, so how do I know what part(s) to replace. The dishes are not getting very clean especially on the top rack, and here is what I know:

1) drain pump is working fine and appears to be no backwash
2) water temperature is fine and burns my hand- the float or emegency shut-off dealio seems fine
3) have run multiple white vinegar flushes
4) Slicer/Cutter palstic housing appears to be "marred" and may be the problem-can I simply remove the screen and cutter, pre-wash the dishes to insure no clogs occur and then test?
5) Pump motor assembly- How do I know if this is bad? Is it binary or does it start to underperform? Is there a pressure test or Amp test I can do on the motor? Does whirlpool have some diagnostic built in by pressing buttons on the panel? Do I need to work on my social life so I dont spend so much time trying to figure out how a dishwasher works, or doesn't work in this case?

Any help anyone can offer would be appreciated.

Did you ever figure out what the problem was? I have the same issue.

Thanks

[Joe / APP Team]

Originally Posted by simpest

Did you ever figure out what the problem was? I have the same issue. Thanks

Simpest and Kfitzpat, The most important issue is plenty of hot water and a proper fill level. Purge the hot water faucet at the kitchen sink. Start the dishwasher and let it fill and wash for five(5) minutes, unlatch the door, remove the lower rack. The water level should be within 1/4 in. of the bottom of the heater element, and be at least 110 to 120 dgrs. If the water level is low, it usually requires replacing the fill valve,
Part number: AP3178610

If the water temperature and level are within range, then dismantle the pump assembly and check for debris in the pump and a damaged impeller.
The Tech Data Sheet and wiring diagram is usually attached to the back of the lower kick plate panel and or the dishwasher lower frame near the fill valve, if it hasn't been lost. Once you have it you can perform the diagnostic service cycle. If there are any issues, the test will cease at that point.