Heating Element Replacement

[1993kababy]

Our very first dishwasher!!! We just picked up a beautiful washing machine - KitchenAid model #: KUDH230Y1 for $40 at our local Habitat for Humanity re-store. We did the first load (caked on stuff on the dishes since we've been waterless with a kitchen reno for a while) and things came out so perfectly! This thing has the wood paneling and is just beautiful. BUT, it looks like the heating element has a weak spot (plus caked on minerals, maybe? A white coating). I called the 1-800 number listed on the machine (Whirlpool) and they said the part (#9740416) is no longer available. Is this something I might find around somewhere? Or can we possibly replace it with a generic heating element (if there is such a thing)?

 

[combo52]

KA KD-23 Heating Element

From your pictures there is nothing wrong with your heating element, you can test by opening the DW during heated dry and see if the element is getting hot by dripping water on it to see if it sizzles.

 

The spot in your picture is just mineral build-up flaking off, the DW was either used with cheap detergent, too little detergent, hard water, and or may not be getting enough water likley due to a bad inlet valve.

 

If you correct the problem that caused the mineral build-up it will gradually go away.

 

PS, I am more concerned about the little rust spots on the porcelain tank in your picture, KD-23 DWs have a lot of problems with the tubs rusting through, it is easier to fix before it rusts through completely.

 

John

 

[1993kababy]

Cleaning the element and tube repair

Thank you so much, John, this is wonderful info! I cannot speak to the water history of the dishwasher but it now lives in a home with village water - I'm not sure what the mineral situation is with our water but I have never noticed build up on anything we've owned since we've been in the house for the last few years.

So rather it sounds like my focus needs to be cleaning the element. Do we need to remove the element to do this or run something through the dishwasher that will help to clear away the mineral build up? What products do you recommend?

And for the tub rust/repair; what do you suggest?

Again, thank you so much for your help! I was so impressed by its first run and excited to have the honor of having this lovely machine in our home, I want to make sure that we take care of things and maintain it well.

 

[1993kababy]

Found a leak...

I'm wondering if the blue/green (copper or bronze bolt, maybe?) is something I can find a replacement part for? It seems to be leaking consistently (regardless of whether the machine is on or off), just a little drip here and there; I'm keeping a small container to collect the water in. It doesn't bother me but I would be interested in replacing it, if possible. Any insights would be wonderful - thank you!
p.s.I'm also interesting in knowing what the best approach would be to patch/fix the rusty spots in the ceramic tub - thanks!