Kenmore (GE) Leaking Drain Solenoid

[Jimbo.2]

Oh Exalted One,

I once again come seeking your sage advice. Perhaps you remember me? I am the one who is currently engaged in a battle to the death with a Calypso washer. While I was waiting on a new motor for my evil clothes washer my dishwasher sprang a leak. The dishwasher in question is a Kenmore (GE) Model No. 363.1404598 Serial No. SS333949R. This particular leak is coming from where the torque tube for the drain solenoid enters the plastic pump housing. Further, the leak only appears when the solenoid is in the drain position.

I have several questions before I attempt a repair. I assume this is just a bad seal, however, a generic manual I have for GE dishwashers states it is advisable to replace the entire motor/pump assembly whenever either component develops a problem. Is that true, or is that merely an effort to separate me from some hard earned beer money? I’m thinking it would be much more cost effective just to replace the seal. Or, provided the pump assembly can not be easily disassembled and reassembled, just the pump assembly itself and not the motor. What do you suggest? Also, the while the drain solenoid is still working it has all kinds of crud built up on it from the leak. Should I replace it to while I have the dishwasher apart? Or (unlike my patience at this point) is the solenoid fairly resilient? If it helps the washer has been in service for about 7 years.

Finally, when making your suggestions could you help me with some part numbers? The model number I gave you is correct (I checked it several times), however, it’s not in the database of the part supplier you’re affiliated with. I also tried looking this washer up on Sears’ Parts Direct site. Sears Parts Direct initially finds the model number and lists it as a Kenmore dishwasher. But if you click on that selection to bring up the diagrams and parts lists the website replies it can’t find that model. Are these standard parts?

[Samurai Appliance Repair Man]

Hey, Jimbo. Sounds like you just need the motor shaft seal and impeller kit.

(The entire motor/pump assembly is linked on that same page-- big price difference!)

[Pegi]

I use a trick to bring up breakdowns, try the model number above yours in THIS LINK.

[Budget Appliance Repair]

No Samurai, that's not what Jimbo is looking for... He needs the drain flap shaft seal: WD8X181 CLICK HERE to order

Jimbo, if your shaft has this push-on nut in front of the seal I would suggest that you order a new one also. They can be difficult to get off, so easier to just cut off with sidecutting pliers and replace with new one.

Part# WR2X7054 CLICK HERE to order

The older units used a flat washer and a c-clip like that is in front of the shaft lever and was a much easier setup to deal with.

As far as your drain solenoid being rusted, if it's still working it should be ok to just clean up the plunger shaft and solenoid guide hole and it will be ok.

[Samurai Appliance Repair Man]

Thanks for watching my six on that one, WillieB!

[Jimbo.2]

Samurai,

I think Budget Appliance Repair has this one right.  The leak is coming directly from behind a push on nut identical to Part# WR2X7054.  Both parts are on order.  Thanks once again for the help!

[Jimbo.2]

Budget Appliance Repair you rock! The new nut and seal cost just under $26 (with shipping and all) and it was an easy fix. The dishwasher is now back in service and Mrs. Grasshopper is relatively happy. She’ll be a lot happier once the Calypso is fixed, but that’s anther story all together. The replacement drive motor had to be reordered again since my first order for a replacement was lost. Who knows, maybe I’ll get some nookie when I fix the Calypso

Anyway, thanks again Budget Appliance Repair! :gimmebeer: