How to replace the Whirlpool dishwasher pump and motor

Having issues with your Whirlpool dishwasher not draining or leaking water on the floor? The problem likely lies with a faulty pump and motor assembly (W11085683). This key component is responsible for controlling the water flow during the dishwasher’s wash and drain cycles. When the pump or motor fails, you’ll notice the dishwasher won’t drain properly or make loud noises during operation.

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

Parts and tools needed

Before getting started, make sure you have all the necessary tools and new parts ready:

• New Whirlpool dishwasher pump and motor assembly (part #W11085683)
• Philips head screwdriver
• Flathead screwdriver
• 5/8 inch wrench
• 5/16 inch nut driver
• Pliers
• Bucket or towels for catching water
• Gloves for protection

Safety precautions   

Safety should always be a priority when working on any appliance. Here are a few practical tips to help you stay safe:

• Turn off the power to the appliance by unplugging it or switching off the circuit breaker before starting any maintenance or repairs. This protects you from the risk of electric shock.
• Wear insulated gloves to shield your hands from sharp edges, pinching hazards, or debris.
• Work at a steady pace and take your time to avoid accidents or injuries.
• Make sure your workspace is well-lit so you can clearly see and access the parts you’re working on.
• Keep the area clear of clutter, and ensure children and pets stay out of the workspace.
• Never handle internal parts with wet hands. Check that both your hands and the work area are completely dry.
• Refer to your appliance’s user manual for any specific instructions or safety guidelines related to the part or repair.
• Handle parts gently to avoid damage to the appliance or potential injuries from applying too much force.
• Use safety glasses when dealing with chemicals, dust, or large debris to protect your eyes from harm.
• If the appliance was recently used, give it enough time to cool down before working on any heated components.
• Take photos or notes of wiring connections and terminals before disconnecting anything to make reassembly easier.
• Avoid touching exposed wires or terminals. If you must handle wires, use non-conductive tools or wear insulated gloves to minimize the risk of electrical shock.

Removing the old pump and motor

1. With the dishwasher on its back, locate the drain pump attached to the motor assembly in the center. Have some towels ready to catch any residual water still inside.
2. Use pliers to detach the drain hose from the pump by compressing the clamp. Remove the wiring harness by pressing the tab with a flathead screwdriver. Twist the pump counterclockwise to detach it from the sump.
3. Disconnect the wiring harnesses from the diverter motor and circulation pump in the same manner. Remove the turbidity sensor by twisting and pulling it out.
4. Lift the wire harness out of its holder. Press the tabs securing the sump with a flathead screwdriver. Lift the old pump and motor assembly out of the dishwasher tub.

Installing the new pump and motor

1. Before installing the new part, clean out the sealing surface where the pump sits inside the tub. Get the seal on the new assembly wet with some water so it can slide in smoothly.
2. Align the positioning pin on the new motor at the 6 o’clock position. Set the water supply tube in place and press down firmly to sit inside the cutout.
3. With the pump fully seated, swing the locking tabs back over to secure the sump tightly. Reattach all the wiring harnesses and sensors by firmly pressing into their connections.
4. Replace the drain pump, making sure the locking tab faces the back. Reconnect the drain hose to the sump with pliers clamping it down.

Finishing the repair

1. With all the new pump and motor components securely fastened, stand the dishwasher back up on its feet. Push it partially back into place under the counter.
2. Feed the drain hose and water line back through the cabinets and reconnect them. Make sure there are no kinks or obstructions.
3. Anchor the dishwasher back underneath the counter with the Philips screws. Turn the hot water supply back on and remove any towels.
4. Run a test cycle to verify the new pump is draining properly. If any leaks occur, double-check the connections. And that’s it – you’ve successfully replaced your Whirlpool dishwasher pump and motor!

More information

If you need any replacement parts for your appliances, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to locate and order them quickly. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have tons of great information in our repair help section and YouTube videos to help you troubleshoot.

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