KDI-21 Imperial

[pavintagefan]

I'm looking for more information about my dishwasher. I bought it about 5 years ago and finally got around to putting it in yesterday when our Kenmore finally died.

I'd like to remove the door seal and scrub it. I don't want to ruin it so I'd like some information as to how it's attached so I can remove it safely.

Also would like a manual so I know how to operate it correctly.

 

[DADoES]

 
Cite the model number, it's on a plate attached to the (left) edge of the tub frame, visible when the door is open.  A user guide probably can be found at Whirlpool's service portal.  Probably also a parts diagram which may or may not be helpful in dealing with the door seal.  May be best to clean the seal in place to avoid potential issues during removal/reattachment.

 

[pavintagefan]

No luck...

Might not be available anymore...

 

[DADoES]

 
222934076 is your serial number.

Info and part searching is via the model, which is KDI-21, or just KDI21.

KDI21 at ServiceMatters

Note there are several iterations of KDI-21.

 

[rp2813]

I think the indicator lamp at far right on the control panel indicates a true Hobart-made 21 series.  The model/serial number tag inside the door opening will confirm one way or the other.  If your machine was made by Hobart, check if they still carry the door seal.  First, you should try a diluted bleach solution on the seal while it's still in place, assuming it's a mildew stain issue.  If it's just built up crud like mineral/detergent deposits, white vinegar and an old toothbrush may help to remove that.

 

We bought a KUDI-21 (the "U" supposedly a designation for an under counter model) new in 1990 and it did a great job for 18 years.  The only thing it ever needed was a new check valve, a little rubber flap for the drain hose outlet that's a cheap and easy DIY fix.  We left that machine behind when we sold the house. 

 

I think an owner's manual that can be downloaded for your machine shouldn't be hard to find on line.

 

[combo52]

KitchenAid dishwasher KUDI 21 door seal

It comes out fairly easily, but it might be hard to get back in and it may leak afterwards I would try to clean the seal in place.

It does not matter whether this was a Hobart built machine or whirlpool. The part might still be available from Hobart It would probably be costly.

John L

 

[qsd-dan]

You may damage the seal by removing it, just meticulously clean around it.

The part# is 4161631, I don't see one available on eBay or anywhere else.

Other common areas of failure:

Carefully inspect the water delivery tube in the upper rack for deterioration or loose fit. Part# 4171544.

Check the filter in the lower wash arm support, these also deteriorate overtime and will deposits all over the dishes. The wash arm support shaft/bearing 4163370 also wears out overtime and will cause a reduction in cleaning performance.

The 4162920 check valve was already mentioned above.

Make sure the water level is at the proper height, a clogged screen or weak diaphragm in the water valve will cause it to underfill.

 

[pavintagefan]

222934076 is your serial number

yeah, I saw that afterwards. Didn't have luck with KDI-21 either.
But I did manage to get the manual, downloaded and printed it this morning at work. For some reason, it didn't want to download on my phone.

By the tag, it's still a Hobart - that's pretty cool.

"If it's just built up crud like mineral/detergent deposits, white vinegar and an old toothbrush may help to remove that"
I'll take a toothbrush and go to town - it was being used daily when I bought it and it set covered until I put it in Saturday. Got some dust / dirt in around the door seal but nothing bad. Just thought removing it would make things easier to ensure I got everything, but I'll be fine and happy with it without removing.

Other than that, everything seems rather tight, well built and not worn at all.
I'll have to look into the filter though. Probably would be wise to get an extra one as they will become harder to find...

 

[rp2813]

The 4-way Hydrosweep wash arm lifts straight up and off for filter access -- there's nothing fastening it into place.  Just be mindful of where the tips of the wash arm are positioned when removing it.  They all need to clear the bulges near the bottom of the side walls to lift the arm off.