How to Replace the Boot on a Kenmore HE3

Disconnect the washer's power cord from the electrical outlet. Turn the water supply valve to the "Off/Closed" position.

Remove the three screws from the rear flange of the top panel using a hex-head screwdriver. Pull the panel off the top of the washer cabinet and set it to the side.

Pull the detergent compartment drawer out as far as it will go. Press the release tab directly behind the compartment and remove the drawer.

Unplug the ribbon connectors from the left side of the electronic control unit located on the back of the control console; do not pull on the ribbons themselves.

Remove the Phillips screw in the recessed hole to the left of the detergent compartment drawer housing. Press the release tab on the right rear side of the control console. Open the washer door and insert the tip of a small flat-head screwdriver into the groove in the center of the bottom edge of the control console. Push the screwdriver straight up into the groove to release the retaining clip that holds the console to the washer cabinet. Remove the control console and place it on a padded surface until you've completed your repairs.

Locate and remove the hex-head screws on the lower flange of the bottom front access panel. Lift the panel up slightly to clear the retaining clips on the sides of the washer cabinet. Pull the panel toward you to remove it.

Open the washer door. Examine the perimeter of the boot to locate the retainer spring. Pull on the edge of the retainer spring with a pair of needle-nose pliers to gently stretch it; slip the retainer spring wire off the boot.

Remove the three hex-head screws from the door switch assembly on the right side of the washer opening. Peel back the boot and remove the switch assembly from its housing. Unplug the wires from the back of the assembly to free the component.

Take out the four corner screws securing the front panel to the washer cabinet using the hex-head screwdriver. Pull the panel away from the washer cabinet and rest it against a wall.

Locate the boot retainer clamp screw at the upper right of the door opening. Turn the screw with the Phillips-head screwdriver to loosen the clamp, then slip the clamp off the perimeter of the boot. Remove the boot from the door opening.

Take the plastic gasket ring off the water inlet tube nozzle. Slip the water inlet tube through the hole in the replacement boot and replace the plastic gasket ring. Fit the boot over the door opening and reinstall the retainer clamp.