How to replace Samsung dishwasher door cable DD81-01528A
Steven E / Wednesday June 12, 2024
The door cable on a Samsung dishwasher helps the dishwasher door open and close smoothly. You might need to replace the door cable if the door doesn’t close correctly, the door is difficult to open or close or if it drops or sags when opened.
You can find a replacement door cable DD81-01528A here. If you need other replacement parts for your Samsung dishwasher, just enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to find them. It’s that easy! Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of guides to show you how to install your new parts.
Disclaimer: The part replacement information provided in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.
What you need
- Replacement door cable (make sure it’s compatible with your specific dishwasher model before installing)
- Phillips screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver
- 5/8-inch wrench
- 9/64-inch hex head screwdriver
- Pliers
- Towels
Disclaimer: The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Always consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the recommended tools for your appliance model.
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Check part compatibility
Before you replace the door cable, make sure you have an OEM part that’s compatible with your specific dishwasher model. To do this, you’ll need to find the appliance model number.
The model number will say MOD or Model before the numbers and is typically found on a sticker or a metal plate in one of the following locations:
- On the side panel or the door frame
- On the back or bottom of the dishwasher
- On the control panel or console
Once you’ve found the model number, write it down or take a clear photo of it for reference.
Next, visit AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can enter your model number to check if the door cable rope is compatible with your model.
Read more: What cycle should I run my dishwasher on?
Safety precautions
When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock.
- If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
- Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.
- Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
- Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
- Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
- Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
- Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
- Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
- Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
- When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
- Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
How to replace the door cable
Change out a faulty door cable rope by following these steps.
- Unplug the dishwasher from the power outlet and shut off the water supply valve.
- Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the screws holding the lower access panel, then carefully remove the panel.
- Get a towel ready to catch any remaining water when disconnecting the water supply line.
- Use a 5/8-inch wrench to unthread the water supply line connected to the inlet valve at the bottom of the dishwasher.
- Remove the screws securing the junction box cover near the water supply line and pull the cover off.
- Note the location of the wires connected inside the junction box to make reassembly easier. Untwist the wire nuts to disconnect the wires.
- Detach the strain relief nut from the junction box.
- Disconnect the drain hose from the sink drain or garbage disposal and feed it through the cabinet.
- Open the dishwasher door.
- Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the cabinet mounting bracket screws on the top or sides of the door frame.
- If necessary, adjust the dishwasher’s legs to lower the machine.
- Carefully pull the dishwasher away from the cabinet. Be careful to avoid any damage to the cabinet or floor.
- Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to unthread the screws holding the side access panels, then remove them.
- If the old door cable is still intact, pull the door spring down to detach the old door cable from the spring. Lift the link off of the hinge to remove it.
- Install the new door cable by hooking the link onto the hinge. Make sure the cable is aligned correctly on the pulley. Hook the looped end of the cable onto the door spring.
- Replace the side access panel and secure it with the screws.
- Gently slide the dishwasher back into the cabinet. Be careful to avoid pinching any hoses or wires.
- Adjust the leveling legs if necessary to make sure the dishwasher is level and stable.
- Replace the screws to secure the mounting brackets to the cabinet or countertop.
- Feed the drain hose through the cabinet and connect it to the sink drain or disposal. Make sure the hose is elevated above the connection point to prevent backflow.
- Position the wire strain relief in the junction box and secure it by threading the strain relief nut.
- Reconnect the dishwasher’s wires by aligning the wire colors and twisting the wire nuts back on.
- Align the junction box cover and replace the screw to hold it in place.
- Reconnect the water supply line to the dishwasher’s inlet valve.
- Replace the lower access panel and secure it with the screws.
- Plug the power cord back into the outlet.
- Turn the water supply back on.
- Run a test wash cycle to check for any problems.
Read more: Best Loading Techniques For Your Dishwasher
Additional information
Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the door cable on your Samsung dishwasher.
If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.
While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.
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With nearly a decade of experience in providing top-notch customer service regarding appliance parts and repair, Steven enjoys sharing practical advice, troubleshooting tips, and interesting information to help readers stay informed.