How to Troubleshoot & Replace Whirlpool AP6005965 / WP2180226 Control Bracket

Removed front panel, 2 screws, removed bracket and pre marked wires, replaced bracket .. Problem fixed for $ 8 plus shipping! Better then $ 75 service call plus 

Changed bracket 

Replaced broken frame. Switch could not activate due to broken plastic holding pins. 

Removed front ice and water dispenser cover and installed new ice switch bracket. 

I originally expected to discover that the dispenser switch had failed, so I looked around online to find out how to get at the switch. After watching some of the repair videos here, I was easily able to remove the front panel from the refrigerator. With the panel off, I discovered that the plastic pegs holding the ice dispenser switch to the door bracket had snapped off after 12 years. The ice dispenser switch still worked, but was completely unsupported; the water switch was only being held on by a single peg (and actually fell off when I performed the repair later). I ordered the replacement bracket and had it in my hands two days later. It's not difficult to remove the front panel with a taped putty knife, but it is more about finesse than force. Note that even a tiny bit of hard water build-up can make it stick to the door. Once under the panel, I needed a screwdriver to pry off the blade connectors on the light socket, and to pry out the connector for the heater. With all the connections detached, the bracket popped out easily and the new one went right in -- quick and painless. This was a very easy repair - maybe 5-10 minutes. I actually spent more time cleaning the previously inaccessible crevices I discovered after removing the front panel! 

Thought it was the switch, so went to AppliancePartsPros.com to find and order the switch. Watched the video on how to change the switch, then decided that I should check it further due to new info learned from the video. Upon disassembly of the unit, I found that the mounting brackets for the water switch had broken off and that the switch was not the problem. Back to the website, located the mounting unit, watched the video to confirm my new findings and see how to change it. Ordered the part. Very fast delivery. Upon receiving the part, installed per the video instructions and, voila, everything worked like new. Very happy with my entire experience, and especially the "how to" video feature on AppliancPartsPros.com website. 

There was no water from door lever, the ice maker got water (I put a paper towel on ice to see if it cycled making more ice overnight). I read Appliance Pros Q & A, but was afraid to order the expensive part I thought it might be and have it not work. I initially thought it was the solenoid or lever. I emailed them and was answered quickly. It was a simple and inexpensive fix w/ the bracket and I was told if the part didn't fix the problem, I could send it back - wow. Appliance Pros has given me the ability and confidence to do all repairs at a fraction of the cost and I can't thank them enough! Oh, let me add that, yes, when I replaced the part I did in fact forget to turn the water back on at first, so if a moron can do it with their help, so can you! 

R&R'd part ordered/pictured On line videos very helpful before starting job 

The bracket arm for water dispenser was broken and the water dispenser switch was not getting activated from the lever arm. Installed a new bracket with arm intact and switch was working fine.