Kenmore model 665.13743k600 screws loose

[laxdef69]

Serial number FT390-4514.

After about 15 years of removing the upper and lower trays and upper wash arm/pump assembly to remove gunkus and various bits of plastic and peanuts/olive pits, the screws that hold the upper wash arm to the back and top of the interior tub no longer grab.

The water supply for the upper arm, and the arm itself are now held in place by the upper rack when closed.

The ability of the washer to wash has decreased dramatically, so the lower tray is spotless, but the inside of the glasses on the upper tray are covered with residue.  

Given that I can't go with a longer screw for fear of piercing the tubs...thoughts? 

Also, the door for detergent is shot, can't tell if that can/should be replaced, of if the machine should work fine just tossing a cascade block on the bottoms.

Thank you in advance for your help!

 

[laxdef69]

It appears the poor performance was related to a bad flapper which was keeping dirty water in the tub. Would still like to know if those screws need to be replaced somehow.

[nolazach]

bring a screw to home depot and get one the next width up and see if that works for you.  Constant in and out of screws on metal widens the hole slightly and the screws don't bite as well.  Not sure if machine screws or sheet metal screws in that application.  Of course whatever you get needs to be stainless.