DescriptionThis video provides step-by-step instructions for replacing the left door hinge on Whirlpool dishwasher model #WDF550SAFS. The most common reason for replacing the hinge is if the door will not open and close properly.
All of the information in this hinge replacement video is applicable to the following brands: Whirlpool
Tools used: phillips head screwdriver, awl, 5/16" socket, pliers
Step-By-Step Instructions1
To replace the left door hinge on your dishwasher, you will need to pull the appliance part way out of the cabinet. then use a phillips-head screwdriver to unthread the four mounting screws securing the toe kick panel and the inner access panel.
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Remove both panels and set them aside.
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Determine if the water and power supply lines provide enough slack to move the dishwasher part way out of the cabinet.
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If not, you will need to fully uninstall the appliance.
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To do this, first shut off the water supply valve.
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Now unthread the top screw securing the terminal box cover.
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Slide the cover to the right to remove.
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Note the orientation of the wiring then untwist the wire nuts to disconnect the power wires and the grounding wire, if applicable, or unthread the screw to release the grounding wire.
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Unthread the strain relief nut and detach the strain relief and power wires from the terminal box.
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Next, unthread the water supply line from the water supply valve.
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Feed it through the cabinet.
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Disconnect the drain hose from the sink drain or garbage disposer and feed it through the cabinet as well.
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Open the dishwasher door and remove the mounting bracket screws.
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To move the dishwasher, you may need to adjust the legs to lower the appliance.
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Now gently pull the dishwasher part way out of the cabinet.
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Unhook the door spring from the left hinge.
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Open the dishwasher door and detach the hinge from the hinge bracket.
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Now use an awl and a flat-head screwdriver to pry the retainer off the hinge mounting pin and you can fully remove the old hinge.
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Install the new door hinge by first aligning it on the mounting pin.
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You can use a 5/16th inch nut driver to secure the retainer.
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Now hook the hinge on the hinge bracket and attach the door spring to the new hinge.
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Confirm that the ends of the drain hose and the water supply line are accessible through the cabinet wall then gently slide the dishwasher back into the cabinet.
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Adjust the leveling legs if necessary.
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Replace the screws to secure the mounting brackets to the cabinet or countertop.
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Feed the water supply line through the cabinet and reconnect it to the supply valve.
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Feed the drain hose through the cabinet and connect it to the sink drain or disposer.
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Make sure the hose is elevated above the connection point.
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Fully position the wires and strain relief in the terminal box then thread and tighten the strain relief nut.
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Join the power wires together and secure them with the wire nuts – black wire to black white – white wire to white wire.
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Join the grounding wires together as well or secure the grounding wire under the screw.
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With the wires positioned inside the terminal box, realign the cover and rethread the screw to secure.
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Position the inner access panel behind the toe kick panel.
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Place the two panels against the frame and align the slots in the inner panel with the toe kick bracket screw-holes.
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With the inner panel flush against the floor, thread and tighten the four mounting screws.
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With the repair completed, turn the water supply back on as well as the power and your dishwasher should be ready for use.