Brand: LG Model Number: LDS5540ST Main Symptom: Middle spray arm not cleaning top rack of dishes properly What happens & when: The dishes on the top rack are not coming clean after a full cycle has completed. It appears the water from the middle spray arm is not touching the dishes at all. On cups that are sitting on the rack, pointed down or bowls that are laying down, after a full wash has completed the underside of the dishes is completely dry and will still be dirty. As an experiment, I took 2 mugs and put mustard in them. Both were put in the dishwasher upside down, one on the bottom rack and one on the top rack. After running a full cycle the one on the top rack appeared to not have had any water even touch it. Still completely filled with mustard. The one on the bottom was clean. I did already replace the diverter motor and verified there were no obstructions. My next thought is to change the circulation motor, part 4681ED1004B, but would like a second opinion as that part is expensive. When the dishwasher is running, it sounds as though water is being moved around, but the outcome does not seem to show any success for the top rack.
Thank you.
Error Code (if any): No error codes
Parts or tests already tried: Cleaned sprayer arms and filter, replaced diverter motor
Photos / video link:
If you are sure there is enough water going into the tub, then I would agree the circulation motor would be the next part to replace. I am assuming you have checked the spray arms to make sure they are not plugged up?
Yes, I have made sure no debris were in the spray arms or the part part that transfers the water to the upper spray arms. All is clear. There is definitely water going in the dishwasher, I guess I cannot say for sure it is the correct amount but I have no reason to believe it wouldn’t be.
If in doubt about the amount of water going into the tub, pour an additional quart or so into the tub after it starts running and see if it makes a difference.
I just finished a load doing the same thing with a mug on the bottom and top with mustard and same results. The top rack mug was still full of mustard. I also poured in about a quart of water after the cycle had started and water was in the dishwasher. Same results as before. I also had a mug on the top rack set facing up to catch any water. It caught virtually no water at all. I am guessing this would indicate an issue with the circulation motor as suspected. Does this sound accurate and if so, is it worth spending the $180 to fix this dishwasher or would it be more wise to just purchase something new? Thank you again for the help.