Simple question...for a pro!!

Dishwasher Repair
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1

Howdy gentlemen,

I searched the forum and didn’t see this issue. It’s a no-brainer for a pro.

I have an old Whirlpool dishwasher (1991? 1996?? - serial number ends in 19916) that works like a champ despite being fed a steady diet of very hard well water.

The rubber diaphram ("nozzle cap" ??) on the lower spray arm has taken a beating from the hard water and I’d like to replace it.

Does it require a special tool or just a strong wrist? My well water tends to act like cement, so is there a danger that too much elbow grease will break something?

Thanks!!!

3

Usually this part just unscrews (CCW).

Your dishwasher needs very good cleaning from hard water deposits. You can use instructions from one of our previous posts: http://forum.appliancepartspros.com/dishwasher-repair/12961-how-do-i-take-remove-strainer-clean-heating-element.html#post37989

Here are the breakdown diagrams and http://www.appliancepartspros.com/partsearch/model.aspx?model_id=235713

Gene.

4

Thanks for your response Gene.

A couple of followup questions:

  1. the parts diagram shows a washer/bearing between the lower spray arm and nozzle cap (see attached image). Should I replace that too?

  2. I use undiluted white vinegar around my house to remove hard water deposits (diluted vinegar is worthless). However, plumbers have warned me not to use it in places like the dishwasher or toilet tank because it will eat away rubber washers and seals. (And it will - I’ve seen it happen on my faucets!) Are you saying it’s safe to use in my dishwasher tub?

Thanks!

5

— Begin quote from Chicago_Paul;191372

Thanks for your response Gene.

A couple of followup questions:

  1. the parts diagram shows a washer/bearing between the lower spray arm and nozzle cap (see attached image). Should I replace that too?

  2. I use undiluted white vinegar around my house to remove hard water deposits (diluted vinegar is worthless). However, plumbers have warned me not to use it in places like the dishwasher or toilet tank because it will eat away rubber washers and seals. (And it will - I’ve seen it happen on my faucets!) Are you saying it’s safe to use in my dishwasher tub?

Thanks!

— End quote

  1. Only if it’s damaged.

  2. White vinegar usually sold in grocery stores is already diluted and it is save to use it in a dishwasher. Especially if you follow the instructions from the link in the previous reply.

Gene.

6

You can also use Dishwasher Magic. It works well, but more expensive than vinegar.