wrote in message
...
I've always used powder dishwashing detergent in past

But for some reason I bought some gel detergent to try
out

Tow days after using it my dishwasher (albeit old) just
up and quit. It does act as if the drain system is
plugged up.

Could it have been the gel detergent? Possible?

Anything is possible. We've been using gel for over ten years now with no
problem. It may also be possible that it loosened up some powder that has
been building up in the system someplace. It will be a PITA to get the
hoses off to clean it out. If you go that route, start with the hose going
into the drain valve. I've had a cherry pit plug that spot as it was the
narrowest passage of the drain.. I'd try running a cycle or two to see if
it clears, perhaps adding some lime-away or CLR in a cycle.