Check the ribbon connector cable FIRST!

[bobbyparagon]

Here's a lessons learned.  I was ready to purchased an electronic PC board for three year old Kenmore Dishwasher 665 series.  It similar to many KitchenAid, Whirlpool, etc. units as well.  I ran into the "classic" blinking light that you've undoubtedly read about on DIY help sites.  I read some comments upon further reading that it appeared that the touch pad or connector could explain the same behavior.  I pulled the PC board looked it over, the connectors, etc. and everything looked pristine.  Replaced the unit and reassembled it and found that the blinking lights had changed and I could even get the pump running in some crazy way.  I then assumed that it could very well be the connectors.  With this low voltage stuff .. it doesn't take much crud,corrosion, etc. to prevent a connection.  I cleaned the pins with iso alcohol, a fine, but stiff nylor brush, exercised the ribbon cable connection with angled nosed precision plyers and what do you know.  EVERYTHING is working perfectly.

As a side bar ... I found a used PC board for the unit on ebay for $4o.  Of course, I don't need it now but I wonder if I shouldn't buy it; the part number is 9744031. They're no longer made but a replacement you can buy NEW is 8530929. I'm keeping my eyes open for a touch pad for this general model on eBay as well, just in case.

[Al Capone]

Hi bobbyparagon,

Could you post the full model number of your dishwasher?

You can find the full model number on the model/serial number tag located on the dishwasher.
I believe you can find the tag on the inside of the door. It will start with 665 and end with eight digits.

Thanks,