The Actuator Spring is an OEM replacement part for the detergent dispenser system in Whirlpool dishwashers. This small spring is responsible for applying pressure and initiating the process of dispensing detergent at the proper time in the wash cycle.
Causes of a bad actuator spring soap dispenser can include fatigue from opening and closing thousands of times over the life of the dishwasher. Failure prevents proper dosing of detergent.
Symptoms of a bad actuator spring soap dispenser include:
- Dishes not getting sufficiently clean even with detergent used
- Wet or damp dishes after the cycle ends
- Built-up residue or food soils still present post-wash
- The detergent cup not opening or closing reliably
This OEM Whirlpool part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore models.
Do-It-Yourself Stories from Customers like You
Latch would not open consistently on detergent dispenser James G. • Waxhaw , NC • January 12, 2015
Appeared to be two problems: the latch was worn and one of the pins that slid in a guide on the actuator located in the inner panel had broke off. Detergent lid spring and pin appeared to be OK but decided to replace since I was aready working on it. I ordered all the inner panel mechanism from the control arm to the latch actuator on the inner panel. The repair was successful as the detergent dispenser now opens during its cycle.
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