Kitchenaid dishwasher upgrade: replace upper rack wheels and experience seamless cleaning

Replacing the upper rack wheels on your KitchenAid dishwasher can be a quick and easy task, saving you the hassle and expense of calling a repair technician. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get the job done:

Tools and Materials:

• New upper rack wheels (compatible with your KitchenAid model)
• Phillips head screwdriver
• Needle-nose pliers (optional)

Safety Precautions:

• Unplug the dishwasher from the power outlet.
• Turn off the water supply.

Steps to Replace KitchenAid Dishwasher Upper Rack Wheels:

1. Remove the Upper Rack:

• Open the dishwasher door.
• Pull the upper rack out until it stops.
• Lift the rack slightly and pull it out completely.

2. Locate the Wheels:

• The upper rack wheels are located on either side of the rack, near the top.
• Each wheel consists of a plastic housing with a metal axle.

3. Remove the Old Wheels:

• Use a Phillips head screwdriver to unscrew the screw that holds each wheel in place.
• Carefully pull the wheel straight up and off the axle.

4. Install the New Wheels:

• Align the new wheel with the axle on the rack.
• Push the wheel down onto the axle until it snaps into place.
• Tighten the screw to secure the wheel.

5. Reinstall the Upper Rack:

• Lift the upper rack and slide it back into the dishwasher until it stops.
• Push down on the front of the rack to make sure it is securely seated.

6. Test the Wheels:

• Plug the dishwasher back in and turn on the water supply.
• Start a short wash cycle.
• Observe the upper rack to ensure that it rolls smoothly on the new wheels.

7. Troubleshooting:

• If the rack does not roll smoothly, check that the wheels are properly installed and that there are no obstructions in the rack tracks.
• If the rack still does not roll, the wheels may be damaged or the rack tracks may need to be cleaned.

Additional Tips:

• If the needle-nose pliers are not available, you can use a small flathead screwdriver to pry the old wheels off the axles.
• Inspect the rack tracks for any debris or buildup that may interfere with the wheels. Clean the tracks with a damp cloth if necessary.
• If you are having difficulty removing the screws that hold the wheels in place, apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the screws and let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to remove them.

FAQ:

Q: How often should I replace the upper rack wheels on my KitchenAid dishwasher?

A: The lifespan of the upper rack wheels depends on usage and water quality. Typically, they should be replaced every 2-3 years.

Q: Can I use wheels from a different dishwasher model?

A: No, it is important to use wheels that are specifically designed for your KitchenAid dishwasher model. Using incompatible wheels may damage the rack or the dishwasher itself.

Q: What are the symptoms of worn-out upper rack wheels?

A: Worn-out upper rack wheels can cause the rack to roll unevenly or become stuck when pulled out. You may also hear a grinding noise when the rack is moved.