A Kenmore Dishwasher 665 Leaks Above the Motor

Kenmore 665 Operation

• The operation and cycles of the Kenmore 665 models are similar to most other dishwashers. An input valve opens to allow water inside the dishwasher cabinet. Once inside the cabinet, the water mixes with the soap inside. A pump circulates this soapy mixture through a sprayer arm where it sprays all over the dishes inside. A pump then pumps out the used dishwater. The process repeats, only this time only with water and no soap. Once the last of this water pumps out of the Kenmore, a heating element turns on to help quickly dry the dishes.

Working Safely

• Before trying to fix a leak in your Kenmore 665, make sure that you turn off the electricity to the dishwasher at the main circuit breaker. Remove the fuse on the circuit or turn the switch to the off position. Wipe up any water that may have leaked out around the dishwasher. Turn off the water supply for the dishwasher where it is connected, usually underneath the nearest sink.

Disconnecting Components

• Remove the kick panel from underneath the Kenmore washer door by loosening the screws holding the panel in place. You will now have access to both the pump and the motor. Disconnect the drain hose from the back of the pump by loosening the hose clamp and pulling the hose off the pump. Disconnect the wiring harness from the motor by pulling out the plastic wiring harness socket with a set of needlenose pliers.

Seal Removal

• Open the dishwasher door. Remove the lower basket. Pry the cap off the sprayer arm and use a socket wrench to loosen the bolt. Pull off the sprayer arm and the plastic fittings on the cylinder beneath. Use the socket wrench to loosen the bolts holding the circular pump cover in place underneath the sprayer arm. Gently lift up the sprayer arm and pump cover. The motor and pump will come out attached underneath, as well as the rubber seal.

Seal Replacement

• Press a new seal into place around the opening at the bottom of the cabinet. Lower the pump cover and sprayer arm assembly into place on top. Secure in place with the bolts. Underneath, reconnect the wiring harness for the motor and the drain hose. Replace the sprayer arm and secure.

Testing

• Restore the power and water to the Kenmore washer. Run a short cycle and check underneath the machine to make sure that it isn't leaking. If needed, tighten the bolts in the bottom of the cabinet. Replace the kick panel and secure with the screws. Replace the lower dishwasher rack.