Whirlpool Intermitent Pump operation

Dishwasher Repair
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1

Whirpool DU980QPDB4

Having problems with the pump running intermitently.

In any cycle it runs for about 1 min then stops for about 5 and restarts again running for about 1 min. The rest of the unit cycles normally.

The result is dirty dishes, and water in the tub. It can’t completly drain in 1 min. and the cycle doesn’t last long enough. it takes 3 cycles on cancel to completely drain.

I Checked the motor/ Pump it is clear and free spining. When running, the pump operates properly ( spray, drain). It is acting as though a relay is closing, and overheating then opening cooling and repeat.

I presume the control board is bad as I see no other relay on the unit. Is there one on the pump?

Just wanted a 2nd opinion before I dropped $200 to fix this.

2

Did the motor heat up when it stopped?

Gene.

3

THANKS , Good Call ! It does appear to be the motor.

I could smell it ( or something under the unit) burning. I can’t find a relay on the unit, or the schematics.
I checked the impeller again, no blockage or binding.

So I presume I need a new motor. do I want the motor of the full assembly?
Motor and fan assembly - Comes with slinger. Also order pump seal kit.
Part Number: AP3044452
made by WHIRLPOOL $150
Part Details - WHIRLPOOL Motor and fan assembly, part number: AP3044452
Part Number: AP3776340
made by WHIRLPOOL $138
Dishwasher pump and motor assembly - Made by Whirlpool.
Dishwasher pump and motor assembly. Includes tub seal and motor relay. Motor harness is sold separate:AP3120215.
Part Details - WHIRLPOOL Dishwasher pump and motor assembly, part number: AP3776340

thanks again!

4

There are two reasons to buy the pump & motor assembly instead of the motor only and the seal kit:

  1. The price for the whole assembly is $19.21 less than price for the motor and seal kit

  2. Replacing the whole assembly makes the repair much more reliable

My answer is: buy the pump and motor assembly.

The motor relay does not sell separate but it comes with the new assembly. It can be located on the dishwasher frame (behind the toe panel on the left side) or on the frame inside the control panel.

Gene.

5

Gene, I replaced the pump/motor assembly and still have the same problem.

Now the motor is heating up very hot.

Could I gave gotten a Bad new motor?

How do I know?

6

Have you found and replaced the motor relay as well?

Gene.

7

Gene,
Note in the box indicates that the relay is only required for a porcelain TUB, I have a plastic one.
Schematic does not show a Relay. Tracked the wiring and can find no obvious relay.

8

If there is no relay by the design then the problem can be a bad thermistor in the control board. In such case the control board has to be replaced.

Gene.

9

Yeh, that is where I started on this, Guess I would have been better to toss this and buy a new one.

10

Sorry about that but the motor is a major cause of such problem.

Gene.

11

Dear Whale215,

This is a follow up to a message I left with your wife to have you give me a call.

We do value your business and would like to see what we can do to assist you further.