Diverter Disc and Magnet

Diverter Disc and Magnet

Joseph from OH

Washer was not cycling through washing zones - lower, upper, silverware. It was stuck on upper zone.

Hex driver.

If the dishwasher is not cycling through washing zones, there are four major possibilities of failure: 1.) The washer arms (clogged or stuck), 2.) the plastic water "pipes" (clogged or broken), 3.) the in-tub diverter valve assembly (clogged or stuck), and 4.) the diverter valve switch/actuator underneath the machine (failed). 1 and 2 are 3 are easy - 4 requires more advanced repair understanding and skill. This diverter disc/magnet is the moving part in the diverter valve located under the lower wash arm. When switching washing zones, a magnetic switch in the control switch under the tub actuates to pull the diverter disc down and then rotates, allowing water to flow through the disc hole to the next zone. The small magnets attached to the disc can become chipped and worn, likely through hard water and wash water recycling. Since the magnets are small, it doesn't take too much magnet loss to affect the operation of the diverter valve. Turn off power to the washer before repair activity. Remember not to push down on the washer door when working on repairs. The lower wash arm can be released through a quarter counter-clockwise turn in a similar action to removing a child-safe medicine bottle cap. Similarly, the diverter valve body twists loose clockwise after removal of the few hex screws that secure the valve body to the water "pipes" that lead to the three washing zones. Remove the water pipes - you may have to check for more hex screws keeping the assembly secure. Gentle manipulation of the valve/pipe assembly is critical. Be careful not to overly stress the water pipes during this operation - they may break or crack. Pull out the valve body. Twist off the disc and inspect. It is worth cleaning and reinstalling parts and then checking the machine's operation if debris is observed. If the disc magnets appear worn at all (compare with part image on Parts Dr.), the disc is worth replacing before considering other possible failures (e.g., the under-tub switch). Once reassembled, check that the machine has normal operation by starting the machine (without dishes) through a quick cycle and opening the door periodically to verify that the upper and lower spray arms are actuated in turn. NOTE: If you listen carefully, you can hear the machine switch zones and anticipate when to open the door to visualize operation.

Diverter Disc and Magnet

john from FL

Diverter would not rotate. Only side jets were spraying.

1/4" socket or nut driver

Remove filter screens and 3 hex screws. Rotate housing and pull up