Thread Number: 63825  /  Tag: Vintage Dishwashers
Anyone know what year this KA Dishwasher is?
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Post# 864002   1/25/2016 at 13:49 (2,984 days old) by Joeypete (Concord, NH)        

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I finally found a KA locally! It doesn't have a window but it's awesome lol.

I'm going Saturday to pick it up. The owner said it works great and has no rust. Just not sure how old it is?

Also are panels easy to find for these? I'd rather have black or stainless (if I could find it). I know some have a different color on the opposite side too...

Any comments and suggestions welcome!

Thanks !


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Post# 864008 , Reply# 1   1/25/2016 at 14:29 (2,984 days old) by chachp (North Little Rock, AR)        
I have one very similar.

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I swap my KDS20 with it from time to time.  I think it's a very well performing machine and is fairly quiet.  I think it's mid 90s machine.

 

I have stainless panels on mine.  I got them on eBay.  I found them under part number B-241677 and they do show up on some of the replacement sites but eBay was a better deal.  I would set up a Followed Search with this number and when they pop up you'll get a note. 


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Post# 864015 , Reply# 2   1/25/2016 at 15:08 (2,984 days old) by Yogitunes (New Jersey)        

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I have a Monterey model too......Hurricane in a box!

there should be color panels behind it, if not, you can make your own....

seriously nice find.....

I was thinking Diamond Plate for the next change out.....


Post# 864028 , Reply# 3   1/25/2016 at 15:56 (2,984 days old) by whirlykenmore78 (Prior Lake MN (GMT-0500 CDT.))        
You've found a good Dishwasher:

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These came with reversible color panels but as others here have said you can make them also.
As far as the age I want to say late 80's.
Wk78


Post# 864044 , Reply# 4   1/25/2016 at 18:16 (2,984 days old) by Joeypete (Concord, NH)        

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Cool thanks! I'm pretty excited. I'll have to install it myself. Can't imagine it's terribly complicated but I've never installed a dishwasher before lol.

Hopefully it will have at least black panels in there. I found a stainless set online for $100. Yikes


Post# 864050 , Reply# 5   1/25/2016 at 19:27 (2,984 days old) by Joeypete (Concord, NH)        

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Also... Where is this model in the line up in terms of features. Is it a Superba? I don't know how these washers were ranked...like what the difference is between the models?

Post# 864052 , Reply# 6   1/25/2016 at 20:02 (2,984 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

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It is a Superba.  The "Monterey" Superba model has black/gray trim across the panel instead of brown/woodgrain as on the "Classic" Superba model.


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Post# 864055 , Reply# 7   1/25/2016 at 20:26 (2,984 days old) by stevet (West Melbourne, FL)        
Took the words

right out of my mouth, DADoES! Same machines just different trim! Chach, yours is a later version. Hobart never used the term Whisper Quiet.
The later Monterreys built by Whirlpool using PURE Hobart designs had the thick mastic pads on the whole tank. Top, sides, back and bottom and were much quieter than the original Hobart built units. Then with the 22's they cut down on the mastic and dis the top, back and half the sides with nothing on the bottom.
But great cleaning machines.


Post# 864057 , Reply# 8   1/25/2016 at 20:44 (2,984 days old) by Joeypete (Concord, NH)        

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Very cool! Guess I'll have to wait until I get it and check the serial to see :)

I'm very excited actually. I've wanted one of these since I was a teenager. Always thought they were cool.

I do remember my friends parents bought a new one and it seemed old lol. I guess because the basic design didn't change much!


Post# 864100 , Reply# 9   1/25/2016 at 23:59 (2,984 days old) by delaneymeegan (Midwest)        

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As for color panels of SS.

Just an idea I've used: Home Depot, and the like, typically offer "back splash" panels, that go on the back wall behind a stove and the rangehood above.

These can be cut to size with a tin snips.

Have fun with your new toy.
I hope you have a dolly or a studly toy-boy to help you move it. They've been known to double as yacht anchors when someone doesn't know how to fix them properly.


CLICK HERE TO GO TO delaneymeegan's LINK


Post# 864106 , Reply# 10   1/26/2016 at 03:05 (2,984 days old) by Joeypete (Concord, NH)        

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Great idea, thanks!!

Haha no studly boy toy. Just my burly lesbian friend lol.

How much do they weigh? My Amana and Frigidaire were super light. I was surprised. I imagine this tank will be more lol.

Easy to move by hand with 2 people?


Post# 864115 , Reply# 11   1/26/2016 at 05:08 (2,984 days old) by chachp (North Little Rock, AR)        
A burly lesbian friend will do the trick.

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They are heavy but not like a refrigerator.

 

As far as the panels are concerned those Home Depot options look good.  I was lucky.  I got the actual KA Panels on eBay for right around $30 or so I think.  There was a seller that seemed to have a stock pile of them because every time one sold another appeared from the same seller.  I think they started the auction in the $20 range and I just lucked out.  If you want to go that option I would still keep on eye on them.  You never know what might pop up.

 

That diamond pattern Stainless could be fun depending on the rest of your décor.


Post# 864116 , Reply# 12   1/26/2016 at 05:15 (2,984 days old) by askolover (South of Nash Vegas, TN)        
it's all metal

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with a real motor so it's pretty hefty.  Tony and I moved ours but it wasn't too bad just cumbersome...and it's a WP built one (still porcelain on steel though).  Weighs much more than my previous Jetclean does.  Just don't forget to remove the hydrosweep before you turn it on its back or side because the hydrosweep might slip off and chip the porcelain.  It just lifts off, no screws or anything.  I looked at a few that people were selling and didn't know about that and the interiors were chipped badly.   I wrestled ours into the cabinets by myself (tweren't easy tho).  Wear gloves, I found several sharp edges that could have cut easily had we not.


Post# 864120 , Reply# 13   1/26/2016 at 06:22 (2,984 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        

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Awesome...thanks for the tips. She has a Honda Pilot so I think it will be just fine in the back of that. The Hydrosweep is the lower wash arm I assume?

Post# 864136 , Reply# 14   1/26/2016 at 08:38 (2,983 days old) by johnb300m (Chicago)        
I've always wondered......

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How on earth Hobart was able to finalize a design for that Hydrosweep wash arm where it needed NO fasteners to hold it down?

Post# 864197 , Reply# 15   1/26/2016 at 18:51 (2,983 days old) by Joeypete (Concord, NH)        

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Gravity? Lol The lower arm on my Frigidaire just pops off too.

So will my current connections fit the KA? I was just planning on unhooking my Frigidaire and hooking up the KA.


Post# 864201 , Reply# 16   1/26/2016 at 19:23 (2,983 days old) by A440 ()        

Nice dishwasher!

Your current connections should fit fine.

Does anyone remember if the first design of this Hobart's / Whirlpool cross over have 2 rinses? I can't remember.



Post# 864219 , Reply# 17   1/26/2016 at 21:38 (2,983 days old) by delaneymeegan (Midwest)        

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Joe, you have a Dyke coming to move and install this.

You can't get any better than that. She will know not only the best way to move the dishwasher, but all the best fittings to install this. Sit back and enjoy the help. If you're lucky, she'll re-grout your tub, too.

Some of us aren't lucky enough to have someone of such..... wait a minute. Do you know for a fact she's a lesi? You only want an ACTUAL dyke. Ask for her card if you don't know. I've seen hetero. married mothers of three, try and pass themselves off as a lesi., but that's a NO GO. Insist ONLY on the best.

Frankly, when you said this was the first DW you've installed, I feared you'd have a medium build, hetero guy friend with a 'my-first-tool-box' in hand, try and help you. Like that idiot from the show home improvement (rolling eyes).

But you're safe. We NEED Pictures of the install, Mr. KitchenAid. wink



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Post# 864237 , Reply# 18   1/27/2016 at 01:11 (2,983 days old) by askolover (South of Nash Vegas, TN)        
honda pilot

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should be fine, I brought mine home in the back of a GMC Jimmy (aka Chevy Blazer) lying on its back with no problems.


Post# 864242 , Reply# 19   1/27/2016 at 01:25 (2,983 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)        
If she's 100% L-word

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She will know it ALL.

 

She will also be delusional in that regard.  Lucky for you, installing a dishwasher is fairly easy.

 

At 6'/200# and out of shape, I was able to load that same Monterey machine onto my truck by myself.


Post# 864250 , Reply# 20   1/27/2016 at 05:29 (2,983 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        
LMAO

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hahaha, you guys crack me up!! lol. She won't be helping me install it. She did show me the faucet she installed (but it leaked), so I don't know if she has good Lesbo-Powers hahahaha.

Of course being gay, I will want to clean and polish it like new before I even attempt to use it myself. I got rid of the Amana that came with my condo because it smelled and had stuff stuck in the sprayer. Yuck!! Like omg. hahaha ;-)

I should be fine installing it. I watched a YouTube video and it is pretty straight forward.


Post# 864301 , Reply# 21   1/27/2016 at 12:43 (2,982 days old) by chachp (North Little Rock, AR)        
I remember my first time....

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....installing a dishwasher.  It was surprisingly easy.  The connections on your present machine might be a little more upgraded that the older one but those are a very easy fix.  My house had a hardwired installation which was an easy fix.  I put a plug on the end of it and bought an appliance cord for each dishwasher I was going to install so now I can litterally unplug one and plug in another.

 

My plumbing had already been converted from a copper tubing to the Stainless braided type hose that screws on easily on each end.  That may be the biggest challenge but again could be an easy fix you'll just have to wait and see what your present dishwasher has vs. the Kitchen Aid.  If the KA has the copper tube installation and your house has the connection for the braided hose you can get an adapter to connect the two.  No biggie.  Otherwise you may have to get an elbow type adapter to connect to the inlet valve so you can connect the braided hose.  Either option is very easy.

 

The drain hose should be a pretty easy connection just be careful it won't kink on you once the hot water starts running through it.  I had that problem once.  It looked like it was well placed but then when it softened with the hot water it kinked at top.

 

All in all, you will be amazed at how easy it is and you'll be so proud of what you did when you're finished.  Take it from one gay boy to another you likely won't even chip a nail.  Let your burly lesbian friend watch.  She'll coach you with rude comments about how you're holding the screwdriver and how your hand flips up when you bend over.  You know how it goes.  No different than when I call a good lesbian friend of mine Sir (they love that by the way :)).


Post# 864372 , Reply# 22   1/27/2016 at 17:42 (2,982 days old) by Joeypete (Concord, NH)        

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Thanks Chach! I'm sure it will be easy too. Probably be a week or so before I install it so I'll have time to look at all the connections. I think I'll keep my Frigidaire so in case I move I can take the KA with me lol

Post# 864432 , Reply# 23   1/28/2016 at 02:03 (2,982 days old) by delaneymeegan (Midwest)        

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Just a suggestion. Don't know your set up electrically.
If all there is, is a wire coming out of the wall/floor and going to the dw, you may consider putting a standard 3 prong appliance cord on the dw, and pull that wire into the sink cabinet and put a surface mount outlet into which, the dw would get plugged in. (mount the outlet on the wall, not on the floor of the cabinet)

This is good if you should need a quick emergency disconnect.
Also, if you do move, all you have to do in unplug.

Another thing I've done is to use a standard washing machine hose for the plumbing connection. Some dishwashers use a fill valve that has hose threads on it already. Then all you need is a stand faucet under the sink.
Again, if you move, just disconnect like a washing machine.



Post# 864453 , Reply# 24   1/28/2016 at 07:33 (2,982 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        

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Cool thanks for the tips!! The water supply is the SS braided hose and wiring is hard wired. I don't have a plug under the sink :-/

Post# 864455 , Reply# 25   1/28/2016 at 07:56 (2,981 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        
So....

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Now I need recommendations for cleaning it. I downloaded a manual and it stated to use "Bon Ami" on the inside of the dishwasher...I have "BarKeeper's Friend" which I think is the same as "Bon Ami". That would be for staining and such on the porcelain enamel. They also mentioned using a water conditioner for a final polish, such as "Calgon". I've never used that before...what do they mean by final polish? Will it make it shiny inside? LOL.

I was going to run a full cycle (after I clean the surfaces) with some STPP and what ever else I should add in..either vinegar, bleach, or just dishwasher detergent?

Any ideas?


Post# 864493 , Reply# 26   1/28/2016 at 12:37 (2,981 days old) by chachp (North Little Rock, AR)        
Drain hose.

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Be careful with the drain hose though.  If I remember correctly SteveT recommends only using the drain hoses that came with the dishwasher or that style and not some of the newer ribbed ones.  Seems I remember him saying those types of hoses somehow impeded the drain function.

 

If he sees this maybe he can confirm.


Post# 864805 , Reply# 27   1/30/2016 at 12:05 (2,979 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        
I got it!

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She's finally in her new home. It was a lot lighter than I was anticipating and we had no trouble loading/unloading.

The woman I bought it from said she hardly ever used it. It's a bit dirty and dusty but the underside looks brand new. Tub is nearly spotless...just needs some touch up clean up.

There was only 1 panel in it. The almond that reverses to white so I will order the stainless panels for it. I'm taking off all the trim to clean it up real good.

The date on the tub sticker says 2/4/85, so it's built by Hobart! That's what I figured based on other pics I saw.

It has very thin insulation on the outside so I will buy some thicker ones to put over it before I install.

I'm so excited! Can't wait to give her a whirl ;-)



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Post# 864835 , Reply# 28   1/30/2016 at 16:44 (2,979 days old) by chachp (North Little Rock, AR)        
Congrats.

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Can't wait to see pictures and hear how your installation went.


Post# 864846 , Reply# 29   1/30/2016 at 18:32 (2,979 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        

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So far I've wrapped the outside. I bought some metallic rolled insulation. It was really the perfect thickness. I just had to trim it. Put it right over the yellow fiberglass insulation. I also replaced the cardboard behind the door panels with this stuff too. I only did the top door so far that's why the colors are different lol.

I will cut a piece to go on the back too.



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Post# 864876 , Reply# 30   1/31/2016 at 00:54 (2,979 days old) by askolover (South of Nash Vegas, TN)        
Asphalt

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Joe you can also get some of that asphalt sound deadening pad from an auto parts store or a stereo store and stick some on the tub, it helps with noise reduction if you so desire.  Link below to what we have available down here.  Compared to my MT Jetclean my KDI23 is a Cadillac in quietness.  I used automotive heater hose for drain hose, it worked great and has smooth inside walls.  You're gonna love having a real Hobart model though.  I was looking for one myself but couldn't find any around here close in good enough shape, then I came across this WP built model that was brand new with the stickers still on it.  Bon Ami and Bar Keepers Friend are not exactly the same but either will work.  I believe BKF has a mild acid in it...I used to use it on my old white gas range to get off burned on stains.  It works wonders on my stainless sink.  BonAmi is gentle (hasn't scratched yet) and was once recommended to clean car windshields (was in my '87 car's owners manual when I was 16).  Of course, Comet, Soft Scrub, or Ajax will have bleach in them...all are abrasive so I'd be careful.



CLICK HERE TO GO TO askolover's LINK



This post was last edited 01/31/2016 at 01:24
Post# 864887 , Reply# 31   1/31/2016 at 09:07 (2,978 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        

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That's a great idea! I think that would be just what I need for the back side of the door panel, lower panel, and kick plate.

I got my old dishwasher unhooked. Wasn't too bad though it got stuck for a bit. It's very light so I think the KA is going to be more of a bear to get in the spot. Fingers crossed!

I need to go get an adapter. Oddly enough the KA has the newer garden hose style adapter on it and my Frigidaire had the older type so I need to get the piece to fit. I'm also going to get some black appliance touch up paint. The panel is chipping on the bottom crevice. Looks bad with silver showing underneath. The touch up paint won't look that great either but at least it's the same color.



Post# 864914 , Reply# 32   1/31/2016 at 11:26 (2,978 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        
Ugh.

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Now I'm having issues getting it to fit in the cabinet. It's just a hair to wide lol. Any ideas? It's getting stuck on the sides where the braces are. I mean seriously, it's just a hair too wide for the cabinet.

Post# 864916 , Reply# 33   1/31/2016 at 11:43 (2,978 days old) by Chachp (North Little Rock, AR)        
Damn. It's a ways something!

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Is it just the opening or the cabinet behind it too? In my case the opening had to be shaved a little but the cabinets behind had plenty of room.

Post# 864917 , Reply# 34   1/31/2016 at 11:44 (2,978 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        

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Hahaha, I know!! No it's right at the opening. It's like one side is stuck but I can't see where it's sticking. I have it about 1/4 way in

Post# 864928 , Reply# 35   1/31/2016 at 12:55 (2,978 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        

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Well aside from not being able to get the machine into the opening, even if I could I realized I would have another issue. When my kitchen was remodeled, they ran the wires weird so the dishwasher wire comes out from the side, interfering with the frame of the dishwasher. I just read the installation instructions and it does say all the connections need to be in the back of the cabinet to avoid interference.

So now I'm really stuck. I'm going to just put my Frigidaire back in and maybe see if I can get a plumber or handy man to install the KA...maybe they are smarter than me lol.


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Post# 864936 , Reply# 36   1/31/2016 at 14:13 (2,978 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        
Wow

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It took me all of 10 minutes to get the Frig back in and running. LOL. It's only about 1/4 inch narrower but that made allllll the difference.

Ugh. :(


Post# 864970 , Reply# 37   1/31/2016 at 18:37 (2,978 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        
Oh no, gurlfriend!

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So my friend reminded me that the Amana he bought from me is set up like a "portable" at his house because he didn't have a space for a DW.

Duh!! I went out and bought a long washer hose and power cord and voila. At least I can use it until I can get it installed perm in the cabinets. She runs beautifully!! I'm going to do a clean cycle. It's pretty loud just out in the living room, but oh well. LOL


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Post# 864977 , Reply# 38   1/31/2016 at 19:39 (2,978 days old) by frogkid11 (Richmond, Va)        
Your white panels

Sorry to hear your "new to you" machine is giving you such a fit. I have a KDS-17 that was recently installed to go with my vintage appliances (1962 Frigidaire Flair and 1961 Frigidaire Frost Proof Imperial refrigerator).

My question for you is would you be willing to sell both the upper and lower panels if you find your black or stainless steel panels? The previous owner of my machine didn't replace the gasket behind the detergent doors and the panels have rusted where they come together a little and I would love to find a new set now that I have fixed the gasket issue.

I live in Virginia and want to make sure you are also ok with shipping them.

Thanks!


Post# 864978 , Reply# 39   1/31/2016 at 19:45 (2,978 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        

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Thanks, it's been a fun day that's for sure. lol.

Which gasket did you replace? The door gasket? Mine had obvious leakage but I took the gasket out and cleaned it really well and seated it again. I'll check to see if it's good. I did notice that mine will leak a little if you open the door while it's washing. I guess if anything, unlatch it and let it settle first.

I did order stainless panels but all they are is slip in. It's not the whole assembly so I will need to keep mine.


Post# 864986 , Reply# 40   1/31/2016 at 20:29 (2,978 days old) by frogkid11 (Richmond, Va)        
That's ok..

I found out the panels on your machine won't fit my machine after all. Glad you ordered yours and can't wait toes pics.

On my machine, the gasket that sits between the detergent door compartment and the door itself was leaking. I took the door assembly out and turned the gasket (there was a cut in it right where the doors open) 180 degrees and it works perfectly.


Post# 864990 , Reply# 41   1/31/2016 at 21:03 (2,978 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        

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Nice!! Glad you got it fixed. What year is yours?

I just got done with a clean cycle. I need to scrub off some stains on the inside but otherwise it's looking good. With repeated STPP use the white film should disappear...it's mostly on the black rubber parts of the filter and the wash arm.


Post# 865034 , Reply# 42   2/1/2016 at 06:39 (2,978 days old) by askolover (South of Nash Vegas, TN)        
More Power!!!!

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Don't you just love the sound of all that power from the 1/2 hp motor in that beast!  I love the sound of an old KA revving up with water beginning to build pressure as it's filling up.


Post# 865038 , Reply# 43   2/1/2016 at 06:58 (2,978 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        

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Yes, it's awesome! Once it's in the cabinets I think it will be pretty quiet too. Most of the noise is coming from the side right now. I put a comforter over it for now to muffle the sound a bit. Otherwise from the front you can just hear the hum of the motor and water splashing.

I will use it today for my regular dish load. :)


Post# 865129 , Reply# 44   2/1/2016 at 23:55 (2,977 days old) by bogo (montreal)        
washing machine cleaner

Once in while I clean the Ka with Lemi Shine. Very good results. lemishine.com/...

Post# 865148 , Reply# 45   2/2/2016 at 06:14 (2,977 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        

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Thanks! I used vinegar and baking soda on the first clean and that worked well. Then did another wash with STPP to help remove any residue. I washed my first load of dishes last night and it did very well!! I have a Tupperware colander that has some water with food residue in it, but that was partially my fault because the handle was not tilted down to allow it to drain. Having a spinner at the top of the tub probably would have helped that, but no big deal! I made meatloaf and used the Soak-Scour/Pots-Pans cycle. The baking dish came out as clean or even cleaner than in my Frigidaire. So I'm very impressed so far.

Post# 865161 , Reply# 46   2/2/2016 at 09:00 (2,976 days old) by johnb300m (Chicago)        
Evil Professor

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.....hehehehehehe....
has anyone ever thought of tapping a hole in the roof of a KA and adding a 3rd little rinse arm up there????


Post# 865549 , Reply# 47   2/4/2016 at 18:26 (2,974 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        
Finally!!!

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Installed! It was a bear, even for the guy I hired to put it in. He had to remove the back support brace so it was more flexible. Plus needed a new drain hose because the stock one didn't fit on my garbage disposal. Ugh.

I'm so happy though, it looks beautiful with the stainless panels!


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Post# 865588 , Reply# 48   2/4/2016 at 22:52 (2,974 days old) by bigalsf (Salt Lake City)        
Congrats!!

Looks really great! You will definitely enjoy using it. They are awesome cleaners!





Post# 865590 , Reply# 49   2/4/2016 at 23:02 (2,974 days old) by Joeypete (Concord, NH)        

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Thanks! I ran a normal cycle tonight and it was fast! Cleaned well too. It's a bit louder than I like but I can live with that :)

Post# 865594 , Reply# 50   2/4/2016 at 23:34 (2,974 days old) by A440 ()        

Looks great Joey!  It looks so modern! 

Such a great dishwasher! 

Have you figured out how many rinses it has? 

One way to make this dishwasher quiet down somewhat is to install a foam insert on the lower panel.  I have done this with my 17 & 18.  Lowers the noise level down to a whisper.

Glad you were able to install it!  You will be very happy with the results and the quick wash times!

 


Post# 865597 , Reply# 51   2/5/2016 at 00:02 (2,974 days old) by Johnb300m (Chicago)        

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Looks awesome. Like back when I was a kid, at my aunts' house.
By today's standards it looks very industrial.


Post# 865612 , Reply# 52   2/5/2016 at 04:49 (2,974 days old) by chachp (North Little Rock, AR)        
That looks great Joe

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I was looking for some other things and found these two videos of my 21 you might enjoy.  On my 21 I had a Wash Arm Support issue and thanks to SteveT I was able to resolve it quickly.  It cleaned well before but after WHOO HOO!!  Great Machine.  Enjoy the vids.

 

This video is with the old Wash Arm Support:

 




 

This video is with the new Wash Arm Support:




 

 


Post# 865623 , Reply# 53   2/5/2016 at 07:02 (2,974 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        
Thank you!

joeypete's profile picture
It only did 1 rinse as far as I could tell. I ran the Normal cycle and it drained 3 times during the wash part...the last one opened the detergent dispenser (the main one) but it only washed for a few minutes. I may start using the prewash compartment too. I put a Tupperware container that I use to make eggs and it didn't clean that very well...but eggs are hard to clean and it had been sitting in my sink all day. The extra prewash detergent might help.

Thank you for the videos! I can't really tell if mine is ok since I haven't seen it run with the door open. The wash arm sounded pretty fast though like your second video so hopefully it is working ok. I'll have to rig it up to watch it with the door open lol.

I put some of the same foiled insulation on the lower panels...double layer but I may try a denser insulation for the lower panel and kick plate to see if that works better. Or the sound panels for cars...either one. It wasn't horrible, but def louder than my Frigidaire.


Post# 865655 , Reply# 54   2/5/2016 at 09:31 (2,973 days old) by chachp (North Little Rock, AR)        

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So here is how you can check.  On the first pic you can see that lower ring thing (sorry don't know the correct term) was loose and when the dishwasher started the ring came up and covered the opening.  It restricts the water flow.  Based on Steve's recommendation I used some Marine Epoxy to glue it down and held it with the popsicle sticks while it dried.  I did this as a temporary measure until I found a new one.  Again thanks to Steve.  After 24 hours I removed the sticks and noticed it made a huge difference.

 

The other thing to check in Picture 2.  You should have a screen covering that whole thing.  As you can see mine was completely gone which I guess is common.  The new one had an intact screen so between those two things I was good.  Obviously the screen had everything to do with how it filters out the food particles and flushes them down.

 

Just lift the Spray Arm straight up to expose this and you can easily see what I am talking about.


  Photos...       <              >      Photo 1 of 2         View Full Size
Post# 865657 , Reply# 55   2/5/2016 at 09:41 (2,973 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        

joeypete's profile picture
Ah ok gotcha! Yeah mine still has the screen on it and it's in perfect shape. I think this dishwasher really saw little use over it's 31 years.

Post# 865674 , Reply# 56   2/5/2016 at 12:16 (2,973 days old) by chachp (North Little Rock, AR)        
Nice!

chachp's profile picture

Mine was beat to hell.  I picked it up at Habitat for $25.  It cleaned up beautifully and works beautifully.  These are really good machines even after all that abuse it's runs very well.  My guess is it got put out because it stopped cleaning that well due to the lower water pressure.

 

The bottom of mine was clean but the inside was a mess.


Post# 865679 , Reply# 57   2/5/2016 at 12:40 (2,973 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        

joeypete's profile picture
Yeah this one does a good job too!

I bought some pink fiberglass insulation and stuffed it under the counter and then some behind the lower panel and kick plate. It quieted it down ALOT. I put some on the back of the top panel but it was too close to the detergent dispenser and I could smell the insulation starting to burn. Not good! That made it even quieter but not enough to risk a fire. LOL. So I took it out.


Post# 865686 , Reply# 58   2/5/2016 at 13:54 (2,973 days old) by johnb300m (Chicago)        
wash cycle

johnb300m's profile picture
How long is the wash cycle portion?
Is it really just a few minutes?

Where these programmed very differently back in the day for, say, different detergent conditions?
Where older soaps worked differently and a main wash of just a few minutes was satisfactory?


Post# 865691 , Reply# 59   2/5/2016 at 14:42 (2,973 days old) by Yogitunes (New Jersey)        

yogitunes's profile picture
fantastic job.....


love the stainless look.....


Post# 865713 , Reply# 60   2/5/2016 at 19:13 (2,973 days old) by Joeypete (Concord, NH)        

joeypete's profile picture
Thanks Martin!

I'm not sure how long it was exactly but the whole cycle was just over an hour. I was just surprised at how short the last wash was. Probably why back in the day we used the extra detergent cups more. Current detergents just say to put 1 pod per load. I used 3 (1 in each cup) of the Sam's club pods when I did the pots/pans cycle because the manual said to do so. But obviously this machine was made before pods lol.

I may switch back to loose powder just so I can divide the detergent better. Though using 2 pods per load isn't a big deal. That everyday the container would still last me almost 2 months


Post# 865793 , Reply# 61   2/6/2016 at 09:10 (2,972 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        
Noise reduction

joeypete's profile picture
I ran another load last night (Light Wash) and I noticed that most of the noise now is coming from the control panel. Has anyone put insulation in there to quiet it down? I'm sure there's electrical components so I'd be worried about heat....but that would quiet it down even further.

Post# 865815 , Reply# 62   2/6/2016 at 12:21 (2,972 days old) by appnut (TX)        

appnut's profile picture

If you wanted and had to have a vintage dishwasher, why are you so hell bent on deadening all the sound.  That's part of vintage appliance "experience" in living with them.


Post# 865826 , Reply# 63   2/6/2016 at 14:06 (2,972 days old) by Joeypete (Concord, NH)        

joeypete's profile picture
Hahaha I know right. I'm just OCD that way. My kitchen is open to the living room so noise is an issue. I was just seeing what anyone has tried :-)

Post# 865842 , Reply# 64   2/6/2016 at 17:36 (2,972 days old) by askolover (South of Nash Vegas, TN)        
Mine too

askolover's profile picture

our kitchen is open to our LR also, matter of fact I can look from my end of the couch and directly see the KA...but that's what remote controls are for!!!!  Personally I like to actually hear it washing.  The Jetclean was noisier than the KA is but at least I know things come out clean in the end.


Post# 865847 , Reply# 65   2/6/2016 at 18:01 (2,972 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

dadoes's profile picture
 
I want to hear the normal operational sounds so I can tell the difference if something goes wonky.


Post# 865849 , Reply# 66   2/6/2016 at 18:18 (2,972 days old) by Joeypete (Concord, NH)        

joeypete's profile picture
It's probably now just a tad noisier than my Frigidaire, which is fine. I just like to tinker with things :)

I think I was more exposed to the Whirlpool built KA's because I was amazed at how quiet they were. Of course that was 20 odd years ago and my reference point was probably a lot louder lol.

I love the hum of the motor now!!


Post# 865883 , Reply# 67   2/6/2016 at 21:55 (2,972 days old) by stevet (West Melbourne, FL)        
Hardly Whisper quiet!

Joe,
Here are some suggestions for you to try.
On the inside of the door, I used something like dynamat rubber padding about an inch thick and custom cut it to fit around the detergent and rinse aid dispensers leaving enough room for the wiring not to be pinches and away from the bi metals.

I have also used 3 inch UNFACED fiberglass and again kept it away from the dispensers.You can actually cover the rinse dispenser with the fg but it has to be thinner.

Since I have a ceramic floor under my machine like you do, I used the 1" thick dynamat stuff on the floor to absorb the sound as well. Fiberglass won't work well and will catch all sorts of dust and stuff.

I covered the lower panel with a piece of rigid fiberglass board cut from A/C ducting and glued it to the lower panel and kickplate, trimming out wherever needed to clear components on the cross member.

If you can, bring the insulation down to the bottom of the machine on the sides and back to the floor leaving an opening for the blower to get an adequate supply of air. Maybe cut it away totally in that right rear corner, Again, thinner rigid board will work better than the looser batt type.

One thing I have tried in the past that worked when the machine was not yet installed was to remove whatever insulation there was and to spray the whole tank with a coating or two or three of Bedliner or undercoating spray. Top, sides, back and bottom. Also inside on the surface of the door. This will cut down on the "ringing" sound that can be heard when the water hits the porcelain tank. Stainless steel has a duller sound when hit with the water.

Of course, I ran it thru a few drying cycles to cure it and get rid of the smell and did it in the garage with the door open so the smell would be gone before installing it.

Then I insulated the tank to conserve the heat and quiet it down further.

I had a Monterey built by WP that had that thick black mastic all over the tank including the bottom and that machine was remarkably quieter than anything Hobart made. I still put the deadening in the door and under the machine. Made a real difference in the noise level in the house.

Ironically, I have a 22 and 23 built by WP and they cheaped out on the mastic as it covers only the top and half way down the sides and back. But for some reason the 23 Imperial is still pretty quiet by KA standards.

You may want to check out Dynamat's website and see if they have something in a roll that you can use too to replace or augment the fiberlas you have on the machine now or in addition to it too.

Hope this helps a bit



Post# 865921 , Reply# 68   2/7/2016 at 07:11 (2,972 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        

joeypete's profile picture
Thank you for the suggestions!! I measured the noise level with a decibel meter on my phone (it's probably not completely accurate) and it was reading between 65-70 decibels right now. Most of the noise if from the front. As hard as it was to get that thing installed, I won't be taking it out lol. So I'll have to work with what I can reach from the front. It's installed in an island that faces my living room and like I said all the noise comes from the front of the machine so I'm not worried about around the tank really. If anything I'll pull the lower panel off and see if I can put some insulation along the bottom sides. I'll figure something out for the top panel/door. I like the idea of the Dynamat since I could secure that to the door panel itself. The foiled insulation I have now seems to work ok, but it's not great. The fiberglass does a better job of absorbing the noise. I did try to cut it to fit around the components on the door so I may do that again and then put a thinner material on the panel.

It's not a nuisance at all even as it is now. I could carry a conversation just fine and didn't need to turn the TV up any louder to hear it so I'm not that worried.

Like I said, I just like to tinker with things. I can't work on cars which I love to do, so this is my mechanical fix. LOL


Post# 865946 , Reply# 69   2/7/2016 at 09:05 (2,971 days old) by joeypete (Concord, NH)        
Ok I think I'm done!

joeypete's profile picture
So I put some of the pink fiberglass insulation on the door...cutting it to fit around any electrical components. I also stuffed some up through into the control panel...just on the bottom and not near anything electrical. Then I put a sheet of the metallic insulation taped on the top door panel. It quieted it down a few decibels (according to my meter) and it's perfect. You can still hear the water splashing softly and the rhythmic hum of the motor. I'm super happy :)


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