KDC-20a

[vac-o-matic]

I just acquired the above dishwasher in what appears to be in excellent physical condition. I got if from the new owners of a house with a dated kitchen, and they are doing a complete remodel and wanted to sell it. The interior is in excellent condition, racks and all, spray arms look great. They bought the house a few months ago and have been using it and said it works great. This is my first vintage major appliance purchase and know nothing about appliance repair. What I would like to know is there any kind of maintenance that should be done prior to installation? I am not mechanically talented, so I will have to find someone to do the service. Is there anything I should look for that might be awry? The front panels are almond, which is fine, I have a 23yr. old Whirpool Designer Style refrigerator in almond as well so that's duable. Are replacement panels available for this model, there's a couple of minor dents in the larger panel, and what might be the timeline for this unit? Thanks!

 

[rp2813]

Your dishwasher dates back to the early/mid 1980's. 

 

If the people you got it from were using it without any trouble, I think a visual inspection could be all that's required.  If you see no evidence of leaks or deteriorated hoses, install the machine and start enjoying the last of the true Hobart-made KitchenAids.

 

 

 

[vac-o-matic]

Thanks Ralph! When did Hobart stopped making them? I saw where you also collect phones, I do as well. I have seven plugged in right now and only one is touch-tone!

 

[rp2813]

Rick,

 

The transition to Whirlpool happened during the series 21 production run sometime after the mid-80's.

 

Regarding phones, you have me beat!  I currently have only four vintage sets connected.  I had to disable the ringers on a couple of them in order to provide enough voltage for my external chime box to work properly.  I have one touch-tone connected in the breakfast room.  It's a wall-mounted 80's Trimline knock-off that has a mechanical ringer.