Whirlpool wdf520padb dishwasher stops

[activa]

Whirlpool wdf520padb dishwasher fills, then I hear a (quiet) click-whirr, which repeats every four seconds for about 30 seconds, then the unit stops.

BTW, I believe this unit has a diagnostic mode, which I can trigger by clicking any three buttons three times in a row. When I do this all the LEDs come on, and then just three come on. But I don't have the diagnostic paperwork that's supposed to be in the plastic sleeve inside the kick cover. I must have... "filed" the papers somewhere. If anybody has a copy or can direct me to one online I'd be grateful.

[activa]

Ok, so the problem was the circulation pump. Interestingly, I was able to remove just the motor from the side of the unit, just slid the washer out, pushed down a locking tab, rotated the pump and it slid right out. After I took it apart it started working. However, it's intermittent, and I think it's something on the PC board for the shaded pole motor (I tested the motor with 120AC out of the washer). The motor is an Askoll M310. But I can't find just the motor itself, which is a shame since it's all modular and just clicks together. Does anyone know where I can get just the motor for this unit? Otherwise I'll have to buy the whole pump assembly and just use the motor.

[johntech]

Motor has updated part number and is sold as an assembly only.

Part number: W10879262

You can pull up a picture on repair clinic.

You will need to install the whole assembly, I wouldn't reccommend just replacing the motor. Since the part has been updated it may not even fit on your existing housing.

Edited August 19, 2017 by johntech

[activa]

Johntech,

Thank you for the answer.

"You will need to install the whole assembly"

Why? I was able to easily snap the motor out, test it on my bench, and snap it right back in. It has "O" rings and was clearly meant to be disassembled. I can supply pictures next time I have it disassembled.

"I wouldn't reccommend just replacing the motor."

Why not? Other than the "O" ring, there's nothing common to the assembly. Is there some possibility the failed motor has affected the pump housing?

Thanks again for your help,

Brad

[johntech]

Do what ever you want. If I were to call tech support they would say they designed it to be replaced as an assembly and to install all parts in the kit. Me personally I would spend the extra couple of minutes to do the repair right or not do it at all. 

[Chat_in_FL]

54 minutes ago, johntech said:

Do what ever you want. If I were to call tech support they would say they designed it to be replaced as an assembly and to install all parts in the kit. Me personally I would spend the extra couple of minutes to do the repair right or not do it at all. 

If the O-ring gets stretched, pinched, or twisted when taking the shortcut, you are screwed...

[Lighthouse]

One very important thing I learned from this sight is "change the sump".

I did not heed this advice on my first pump call and it bit me in the butt. Now if there is a pump problem they are getting a quote for a new sump.

[johntech]

Plus since it is an updated part number the manufacturing tolerances may be different then the original but visually be the same. Say the housing allows for a few thousandths difference. It may work and not leak right away but could leak prematurely. Aslo since it is updated they may have made minor changes to prevent problems they came across after the appliances were on the market. 

[MoTeD]

You could have the motor windings rewound. Don't sell yourself short unless you like to wash dishes by hand. I learned very early on in this industry that usually it's better to not ask "why". The manufacturer has their reason for not offering the motor as a separate part and substituting as a whole assembly. If its that much hassle just replace the whole dishwasher. I just looked at a FRIGIDAIRE in the home improvement store for 299$ (USD).