6 replies to this topic

[Lumpy]

We have a Kenmore dishwasher, model 665.15982990. It does a great job washing dishes and has a stainless steel tub, so I'd rather fix it than replace it.

It has an intermittent leak:

• sometimes it leaks a bit
• occasionally it leaks a lot
• once in a while it leaks like crazy

I disassembled the door to see if the leak was coming from the inside, and there is no obvious sign of leakage. So I think it must be leaking from around the sides where the door meets the tub.

Do I simply need to replace the seal? Could it be a problem with the latch? Your advice and expertise is most welcome! Thanks!

[Samurai Appliance Repair Man]

Based on the leak scenario you're describing, the seal is a prime suspect. But first, let's rule out using too much detergent as the problem. Do you see lots of suds in the basin when you open the door during the cycle? How much and what type of detergent are you using? Just for giggles, run a cycle or two with no detergent and see if you get leaks.

Part links:

Lower door lip seal ==> http://www.repaircli...er=665.15982990

Door gasket ==> http://www.repaircli...er=665.15982990

And how to install it:

[Lumpy]

We generally use Cascade gel. We'll try running a few cycles with no detergeant. How much is the right amount?

[Samurai Appliance Repair Man]

I don't like the gels and tablets-- seen 'em cause too many problems. Try using a good quality powder. Reduce the amount they tell you to use on the box by 1/3.

[Lumpy]

OK, we'll give that a shot.

I noticed that if the door is closed and latched, it seems to have some play on the upper right. I can push it in 1/8" on the upper right, where it's tight and won't move on the upper left. Is this a clue as well?

[certified tech group 51]

Is the D/W frame square to the door??? Does the door touch the plastic bumpers on ether side??? Are the legs touching the floor, unit not hanging from the top/side mounting fasteners ???...Are the ports on the spray arms free of debris??? Some times it is the simple, overlooked stuff that causes leaks............OR ........it is a faulty door gasket...........OR.......Do you place round bottom bowls in the front left/right corners of the bottom rack?? Water spray from the lower arm will go into the bowl, come back out and forces water in the tub out the bottom of the door.....

[Chat_in_FL]

Also check the circle of screws that secure the pump outlet to the filter assembly, just under the lower spray arm. When these work loose, the seal leaks and water blows out the door...