soap door won't open automatically

[maud-lafosse]

Hi friends,

I'm seeking advice on a problem that's crept up with my (early 1980s) KitchenAid Energy Saver Superba by Hobart. The Main Wash compartment of the detergent dispenser doesn't open automatically anymore. Pictures attached. I've tried less soap, cleaning it out etc. but it seems to be mechanical. I so appreciate any tips because I love my dishwasher and want to keep her running forever!

Warmly,
Maude

 

[maytaga806]

I would think this is a mechanical opening dispenser, looks far too old to have a wax motor but I could be wrong? My late 90s styled powerclean had the same issue, needed a new wax motor and all was good. Check owners manual if available online somehow, see part diagrams to find out how the dispenser works and go from there someone on here I’m sure will give all that to you.

 

[cfz2882]

probably bad electrical connection.

-that is what was wrong with my 1974 KA-a bad connection developed at the bi-metal strip behind dispenser: easy fix

 

[tomturbomatic]

Have you checked the filter under the wash arm? The dispenser is triggered by bimetal strips that heat up under the load on the motor and unlock the door. If the filter is not clear, it restricts the flow of water into the pump which puts less of a load on the motor so it draws less current and therefore the bimetal strips do not heat up enough to flex and open the detergent dispenser door. Please begin by lifting the wash arm out and pulling the filter up, holding it up to the light and checking to see if it has food mater in the mesh. If so, you can use a brush to scrub it under running water, replace it and try running the machine again. If that does not bring the desired results, let us know and we will go to the next step.

 

[danelto]

KitchenAid Soap Dispenser

Hi Maude:

I had the same dishwasher; it had the same problem as yours.

I was told that it was a common problem in Superbas.

Tried to fix mine to no avail. It was a humbling experience.

But, every dark cloud has a silver lining. I got a new dishwasher--three, actually since the old Superba.

And do you know what? THe sound decibels in the new machines are so much better! With the old KitchenAid, you had to flip the latch and open the door just to hear somebody on the telephone.

That's the one (and only one) aspect that I hated about that machine.

Otherwise, it was a hurricane in a box.

You know, it would be nice if one of our mechanical guys could post a video of how to replace that bi-metal strip. I'd pay to watch it. . .

 

[combo52]

If cleaning the filter does not solve the problem

You may have a bad dispenser assembly, does the lid still spring open if the dispenser is sticking, you either need to replace the dispenser assembly or take it apart and try to rebuild it. They were not meant to be serviced, but some people have successfully done it.

You may also have a bad buy metal on it. You’ll have to take the other door off and inspect look for burned wires, or a partly broken bimetal latch.

John