On 22 Aug 2004 13:15:10 -0700, Gini wrote:

In article , Alan says...

I took off the inside door panel to find a sliding mechanism that
releases the lid. It had a broken spring about 2" long. Not having a
suitable replacement, I tried twisting the broken ends together and
they appear to stay well enough. I put the panel back on and now
turning the dial around releases the lid. Hopefully I can get a
replacement spring, but sooner or later will get a new dishwasher.
Thank you for your replies.

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I had a similar problem with my Kenmore dishwasher. I started using Cascade Gel
instead of powder and it dispensed OK in spite of the bad spring. I used it for
about 5 years after that.
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Since the spring was in two pieces, the lid would not even open. Now
it opens when it should. I really don't think I will get new racks
because of the poor design and will likely replace the whole
dishwasher soon. At least it is usable in the meantime.