Whirlpool Dishwasher Slow Water Inlet

[mdfudge]

I have a older Whirlpool 1989-1990 Model DU7216XS-2 or DU7216XS2 that works better than anything I have seen NEW.

I have replaced a few parts on it.  Upper spray-bar Lower Spray-bar - plastic bearing - spray bar cap and Filter Guard oh
and a new soap dispenser Solenoid switch - switch gasket and soap cover.  Everything works great so far and the wife is
happy!  

I noticed that the water level was short or shallow than usual.  It wasn't even touching the float switch.  So I opened the door
cycled the timer to start again and it started to fill with water again.. almost the the top of the float switch.  I repeated the same
thing one more time.  It then raised the float and the water stopped.

My Question is:   Should I replace the Water inlet Solenoid/valve or should I replace the old fashioned timer.  The timer is around $156.00
and the water inlet solenoid valve is like $23.00.  What can I do to fix this problem, am I correct with my assumption to these parts or
could it be something else.  The HOT water valve is fully opened under the kitchen sink, so there is plenty of water pressure to both
the faucet and the dishwasher.  The water just comes out slowly to the dishwasher but not like a trickle but like medium pressure.
The inlet line set is 1/4 copper line compressed fitting to the water valve.  Should I change this out to a larger appliance hose type or is this
adequate.  I have never touched the line or replaced it before.  The dishwasher was installed way back in 1989.

I am out of suggestions.. so that is why I am here.   I have experience fixing appliances, but this is my first dishwasher experience and
I must say.. it is very interesting...  

[MajorApp]

 That model dishwasher works on a "timed fill". Your water valve is probably getting dirty inside and not allowing enough water to enter the tub before the timer stops the filling part of the cycle. I would replace the water valve.

[mdfudge]

That model dishwasher works on a "timed fill". Your water valve is probably getting dirty inside and not allowing enough water to enter the tub before the timer stops the filling part of the cycle. I would replace the water valve.

Hi MajorApp,

Thank you for responding..  I have just ordered a new water inlet valve should be here in a few days.. I will
post the results on forums for you if you'd like and also some pics if you want.  Thanks again for respoding!

I now await shipment of this part with baited breath

MDFUDGE

[AJ]

I will post the results on forums for you if you'd like and also some pics if you want.

That would be great, please do.

[jumptrout51]

Your supply line should be 3/8 not 1/4.

[mdfudge]

Hi guys,

I just want to let everyone know who helped me that I completed the job at replacing the new water valve for the dishwasher.

I noticed the new water valve that I received has a screen in it.  This means that the old one, which has never been replaced
must have a screen too.  So that being said, it must be obviously plugged by more than 30%.

Replacing the valve was rather straight forward.  Turning off the mains or kitchen sink water outlet and disconnecting the electrical.
Then opening up the access panel to get at the part in question.  Removing the 3/8 (Thank you for correction, not 1/4) copper line
from the water main valve.  Removing the 90 degree brass coupler or adapter to use on the new one.  Using a 1/4 inch nut driver to
remove the water valve from dishwasher frame.  And putting it all back together in reverse order.  I noticed in an article that you must
use the right amount of Teflon tape for the brass coupler/adapter or else you will have leaks.  Good thing I got that lined up right, no
leaks when I put it back together.

Overall I think anyone who is handy with tools can tackle this job.  It does take time to do it but its really an easy job nonetheless.
I have put together some pics that I took while I had the parts in hand.  The pictures at not all that great but do represent what I
had to deal with.

To SUM it up, the new part worked flawlessly filling the tub with HOT water in no time flat!  I did notice that the initial Fill was still a bit short.  But that has to do with the timing of the dishwasher timer on the Start Setting, all other setting throughout the wash cycle work
as they should and give enough time to fill the tub.  I don't want to spend 135 or more for a timer.  I will eventually buy a new one, but
when money is scarce its places like Appliance Junk Forums that is here to help anyone save money to all DIY and professional alike.

Thank you to all who helped me with this appliance.  Your knowledge is indispensable and I'm glad you are here at ApplianceJUNK.com

Sincerely.
mdfduge - Intermediate DIYer



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[jumptrout51]

Nice.
Glad you got it working.

[JWWebster]

Great pictures