I have a GE GSD 2030. My dishes in the upper rack were not getting properly cleaned (sandy residue). Ultimately, I thought I had the problem fixed after I:
manually spun the motor wheel,
cleaned out the drain (removed the grate and the second piece within), disassembled, reassembled and cleaned the float, and
manually manipulated the solanoid to make sure that it was working.

However, now the dishwasher will not drain, at all, which is a new symptom. The solanoid springs still seem to be undamaged and in place. HELP!!!!

I do not believe that the motor runs during a drain, but can not tell, as I do not know exactly when the drain occurs. My assumption is that the drain should occur right before the dry cycle.

I also am not sure, but do not believe that the solanoid is activated. I sat with a flashlight watching the solanoid during the end of the rinse/beginning of the dry cycle and it did not move.

Further, upon additional consideration, I think what may have occurred is that when I was initially attempting to get the water to drain, I pulled off the grate in the back and pulled out the plastic piece. I also pulled on the rubber piece and for a moment broke the seal. I assume that water entered the pump mechanism in that way.

The question now is whether I attempt to replace the pump, or simply buy a new dishwasher. Further, if the motor and the pump require replacement, I assume that the cost of the new motor is more than the dishwasher (which is ten years old) is worth.

Any further thoughts would be much appreciated.

Thanks

Mike

So since the dishwasher runs, and washes dishes, but does not drain, you think that it may either be a broken wire or a bad solanoid?

Should I manually try to pull the solanoid down at some point while the machine is operating to see if I can get it to drain?


Thanks again for your help.

I did try to pull the solanoid down the first night, and water started to leak onto the floor. I assumed that I was doing it at the wrong time. Should I try during the dry cycle?

I will test with a multimeter tonight. It appears based on what I read, that if the solanoid is bad, I can replace it for a bout 30-40 bucks. I assume that I am competent to do this job, I am fairly handy and can do simple plumbing and electrical work (install faucets, run wiring and install lights/fans, etc.)

Tonight I tested the solenoid with a "bulb tester" not a multimeter. It appears that there was no continuity (the light did not come on).

I did manage to unplug the wires from the terminal and not note which was hooked onto which side of the terminal. Any advice for identifying which wire to which terminal if I purchase a new solenoid?

At this point would you recommend a new solenoid?