KDI-18 Gasket recommendation & spring replacement

[jeepinjohn]

First off, newbie here and let me say, this website is a revelation. It's wonderful to find such a committed group with a common mindset regarding consumer products- they really don't make things like they used to. As an early 80s baby, I wasn't fortunate enough to be around when most of these classics debuted, but I've alway had an eye for the elegant designs that unfortunately seem to have gone the way of the buffalo (and like the buffalo, they seem to be making a resurgence thanks to the low quality crap that most manafacturers put out now).

Anyway, on to my questions that I am hoping the Hobart experts have answers for (and forgive me if these questions have been answered elsewhere, I tried searching this site without luck, but perhaps my search terms weren't on-point):

1. After installing an older KDI-18 dishwasher, is there anything recommended to include in a first cycle to help re-condition any of the gaskets? I've read to leave some water in overnight to test if there are any leaks, but should I try to help it out by adding any lubrication first? In one thread, I found some mention of using some type of oil, but then there was mention that it could potentially leak into the motor and cause more significant issues. Should I just test it as is, or should I use some type of oil-based conditioner to help bereathe life back into the gaskets first?

2. See photos - Upon installation, I realized I only have a door spring on one side behind the lower front panel. I looked at the other side and it appears that the complementary mount for a second spring on that side is missing (or they only come with one?). I'm guessing it previously had a mount on that side as there is the faintest sign of wear in the middle screw hole. Should there be a spring on each side?... and if so, is there somewhere I can buy the mount and spring (actually, maybe two springs so I have a matching set where both springs are fresh), or someone with old stock who could sell me one?

Thanks for your time and insight.

 

[firedome]

nice machines...

have had several of them, they wash as well as any KA imo. Yes, it should have a spring on each side, does the door seem like it needs more assist, feel heavy?

 

[rp2813]

Usually the super hot water dumped into the sump area is the way to soften up an old, dry, hard gasket.  It may also re-seal itself with continued use of the machine, but keep an eye on things to make sure any water that might leak out doesn't get into the motor.

 

It's odd that the spring and its mount are missing on the one side.  I might have a couple of springs from a KDS-20 around here somewhere, but not the mounts.

 

[toploader55]

I might have a extra set of springs if no one else has a set.

 

I'll look later.

 

[jeepinjohn]

Thanks for the responses...

Firedome, Yes, the door does feel heavy.
I am careful to let it down gently when I open it. If I did not gentlylet it doen, it feels like it would quickly drop open and bounce, which can't be good on the door/hinge. I am assuming that if it had both springs it would probably be much smoother and kind of let itself down. I'd love to buy the extra bracket and spring is anyone has spares.

Toploader55, if you also have an extra mount for one of the springs, I'd be happy to compensate you for the parts and time.

Thanks rp2813 for the tip. I warmed up some water and let is soak overnight. No leaks initially at least. I've ran 3 loads now and it washes excellent, but some of the rubber grommets under the screw heads around the edge of the tub on the inside of the door have crumbled a bit. They are very thin, so I'm hoping the interior gaskets are more substantial and less prone to deteriorating. How do I check to make sure water is not getting into the motor, just take off the lower front exterior panel and look for water leaking down?

Thanks again for everyone's help

 

[rp2813]

If the machine passed the overnight soaking test, you're probably fine, but if you want to be sure, you can check underneath.

 

First take the lower panel off without the machine running and check the motor itself to see if there are any traces of where water has dripped in the past.  If you don't see any, run the machine and check for any dripping/leaking onto the motor.

 

I don't know of the 18 series uses the same mounting system as later models for the lower panel, but if it does, that panel can be frustrating to get back in place correctly.   Clear the room of any children before attempting to reinstall it.  ;-)

 

 

 

 

[jeepinjohn]

Lower Panel is a pain

rp2813, thanks for the info and you are correct, the lower panel is a bit of a pain to remove. Probably worth the effort though to ensure no leaks as water in the motor would probably have potential to cause motor fatality I'm guessing.

I'll go ahead and give it a try and hope not to see any water.

Thanks again!

 

[stevet]

Roll the tape, Please Eddie! (toploader55)

The lower panel is a pain when you have no idea how it stays in place!

I sent a video of how it is done to our member Toploader55 and am now asking him to post the youtube link to the video. It will make all the mystery disappear for those who hate trying to install their panels!

Take it away, Eddie!

 

[toploader55]

can't get it to upload. Says its too big.

 

I know I posted it here before, I'll have to look for a thread with it in it.

 

[stevet]

Thanks, Ed

We can count on you, I know it!

 

[combo52]

Missing Door Spring Etc.

Hi John, hope you enjoy your new DW, You should replace the Rt door spring while you are adding a Lt one, the Rt one is rusty enough that it will likely soon break.

 

The lower clip that holds the bottom of the left door spring would be very easy to make. Also the gaskets you mentioned under the screws that hold the main door panels in place are only there to help prevent porclean damage, no water gets on this area during DW operation so the cracking of the rubber will not cause a leak.

 

John L.

 

[toploader55]

Found the Video.

If you need this. e-mail me and I can send it to you privately.

 

I can't figure out how to open and post it here. Says it's too big.

 

[stevet]

Same here!

I finally found my copy of it but can't send it from my phone. Will try later today to get it downloaded. Didn't you post it on Youtube, Ed?

 

[toploader55]

I can't remember Steve.

But I'll try.

 

You're talking to someone from Cape Cod here ya know.

 

We're very limited people.

 

Ta Da !!! Now on YouTube   Starring Dr. stevet (Our own Dr. Bombay of the Intergalactical Hobart KitchenAid Universe)

http://https//www.youtube.com/watch?v=GK3TtEYbAAU

 

[stevet]

Thanks, Eddie

You beat me to it. Glad you got it uploaded and I hope it helps the other members too.