Kitchenaid Hobart KDS-20

[johnpurdy]

Hello All,

I stumbled on to this website looking for a way to repair my parents Kitchenaid/Hobart KDS-20. Looks like you guys have tons of info on the great old machines.

I want to thank y'all in advance for the help and information.

The problem from what I can tell is that the washer is not draining. I'm thinking the pump is not working though I have not had A chance to check it yet, I just started to help my dad repair this. Any ideas would be appreciated.
Thanks again
John

 

[chachp]

My KDS20 Did this not long ago

Mine was a pretty simple fix. The hose under the sink somehow kinked and was stopping the flow of water. Hopefully yours is as simple to fix. Also check the hose under the dishwasher. I have had those kink on other machines. If the hose under the sink got pushed at all it could also kink the hose under the dishwasher especially if it is still warm when it gets pushed.

Just a couple of things to check.

Others are better qualified to help diagnose a mechanical issue with the machine not draining. I do know they will want to know if the machine is a KDS20 or a KDS20A. There is a difference in how they drain and knowing that will help them help you diagnose it.

 

[rp2813]

I got a KDS-20 for free from a member here some time ago and it had the same issue when I first tested it out with the help of a knowledgeable friend.  When the timer was bypassed, it drained fine.  I never did anything about it, and the machine became a parts donor for a slightly newer model I acquired later.

 

Due to the holiday period, it may be a while before the experts show up here and offer more advice.  Give this thread a bump if you don't hear anything by the end of next week.

 

You can purchase a copy of the service manual for most KD-20 models via the link below for $3.30.  There may be differences in the timer options, but the draining function should be the same for all models.

http://www.automatice.org/cgi-bin/index.cgi?showdoc~616~KitchenAid~

 

[toploader55]

"Snap"

During portions of each cycle you should hear a "Snap". That would be the Drain Solenoid opening to drain the machine.

If you do not hear this noise, the drain valve has issues. Remove the lower panel and check to see that the wires are still connected to the valve.

As mentioned above... check the drain hose to see that it is not kinked anywhere

Dr. Stevet our resident Hobart man should be around soon.

 

[songbird]

KDS-20 cycle times

Hi guys! this is my first post! i just picked up 3
kds kitchenaid machines. KDS-17, KDS-19, and KDS-20. i am fascinated by the 17 because i have used the 16's and know of the very short cycles and effective cleaning ability!! so im assuming the 17 would be the same!! the KDS-20 looks in better condition especially the handsome look of the front panel but i need a black replacement panel for it...anybody know where i can find these?? im wondering what you guys prefer out of these three models and what are the cycle times for the KDS-20 especially....any help would greatly be appreciated1 sincerely, lisamarie

 

[chachp]

17 vs. the 20

<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have a 17 and I have a 20.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>I like them both for very different reasons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>The 17 is really fast and does a great job and for me has some sentimental value.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>Loading can be a bit more challenging due to the lack of a spray arm under the upper rack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, when loaded correctly you can get a lot in there and that machine has amazing water pressure and therefore cleans very well.</span></span>

<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I like the 20 because it has the great look you mentioned but it also has a more forgiving loading configuration given the spray arm under the upper rack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>I don’t think the cycles are all that much longer than the 17 but there is a small difference.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>The link below will take you to the download section where you can find the user guides and service manuals for both.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>These will contain the exact cycle times.  You want to download the New KitchenAid KD-20 Energy Saver V Dishwasher Service Manual.  </span></span>

<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I prefer the Soak cycle on the 20 to the 17 because it sprays and “soaks” multiple times where the 17 only does once.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>I don’t rinse much and my dishes are generally pretty dirty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>I use the soak cycle fairly often and the 20 does a great job getting them clean.</span></span>

<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have not used a 19 so I can’t comment but I suspect any Kitchen Aid Superba of this vintage will do well for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>I think in the end though, it’s each person’s preference.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>For every person who agrees with my post there is likely someone who won’t.</span></span>

http://www.automatice.org/cgi-bin/index.cgi?brand=KitchenAid=DW

 

[firedome]

The Series 17...

is my personal favorite, for the very reasons that you mention, the fast cycle time, simplicity, and nostalgia as well... we bought a KDC-17 new in 1974. As Ralph mentions, as long as the lower rack is loaded so as to not block the spray from reaching the top rack they can do a fine job. After all, these machines were highly similar to ones Hobart built for the commercial restaurant trade, they even used the same motor. We have an 18 Series that, like the 19, has the upper spray arm as well and the upper rack design is somewhat better imo. Frankly, it's hard to go wrong with any Hobart built Kitchen Aid! Have fun with those great machines lisamarie! Roger A.

 

[chachp]

Black Panels for your KDS20

I don't know where you can get a set of black panels but there is someone on eBay who seems to have a thousand sets of stainless panels for your 20.  If Stainless is an option for you do an eBay search for B-241677.  There was just a set the other day but they may have sold it.  I am sure another will pop up soon.

 

[combo52]

Black Front Panels For Your KDS-20

Are you sure you don't already have black panels behind the one on it?, this DW came with 4 different colors, two sets of panels painted a different color on each side.