How to Remove a Kenmore Dishwasher Motor

Remove a Kenmore dishwasher motor to troubleshoot the appliance and replace a worn or burned-out motor. The motor is attached by four bolts to the undercarriage of the appliance and by two bolts to the water pump. This article explains how to remove the dishwasher motor.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdrivers
• Wrenches

How to Remove a Kenmore Dishwasher Motor

1. Shut off power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker and turn off the water line to the dishwasher by locating the shut-off valve, which is typically inside the cabinet beneath the kitchen sink.

2. Remove the four screws that hold the dishwasher kick plate in place.

3. Locate the motor, which is typically centered beneath the bottom spray arm.

4. Lower the dishwasher door and take out the bottom dish rack.

5. Remove the spray tower and spray arm assembly by unscrewing the bolt through its center.

6. Take out the filter immediately beneath the spray tower.

7. Disconnect the motor wires from the wiring harness, making a note of which wire connects to which terminal.

8. Disconnect the pump assembly and drain hose from the motor.

9. Remove the motor from the base of the dishwasher by unscrewing the four bolts holding it in place.

10. Repair or replace the motor and reinstall, taking care to reconnect the wires the same was as they were attached to the old motor.

11. Attach the pump and drain hose to the motor.

12. Replace the filter, spray tower and lower spray arm assembly. Reattach the center bolt in the spray tower.

13. Restore electrical power and turn on the water supply valve.

14. Run a test cycle to check for leaks underneath the appliance.

15. Replace the kick panel in front of the dishwasher.

Tips & Warnings

• Mop up any standing water inside the dishwasher to prevent it from dripping through the hole mount of the spray tower onto the electrical wiring underneath.

References

• Replacement parts for Kenmore dishwashers