How to install lower spray arm Kenmore dishwasher?
To install the lower spray arm on your Kenmore 66517372301 dishwasher, pull out the bottom rack, seat the spray arm on the hub at the bottom of the tub, and secure it so it spins freely by hand. Reinstall the rack and run a quick rinse to confirm proper spray.
- Turn off power at the breaker before reaching into the sump or pump area.
- Let the heating element cool completely.
- Pull the bottom rack straight out and set it aside.
- Remove any debris around the spray arm mount so the arm sits flat.
- Keep screws and small parts out of the pump area (a towel over the pump area helps during service).
- Remove the bottom rack.
- If the old arm is installed, release it from the center mount (most Kenmore 665 designs use a center retainer or nut style fastener).
- Place the new lower spray arm onto the center hub so it sits level.
- Reinstall the retainer or nut and tighten it snugly (do not overtighten).
- Spin the spray arm by hand; it must rotate freely without rubbing the heating element or rack.
- Reinstall the bottom rack and confirm nothing blocks rotation.
- Make sure tall items and pot handles are not stopping rotation.
- Confirm nothing is loaded between the bottom rack and the side of the tub that could block the water inlet opening.
- Check spray holes for clogs; rinse under hot water and clear holes with a toothpick if needed.
- If wash performance is still weak, inspect the circulation system components (pump, feed tube, filters) per the owner's manual.
| Symptom | What to check first | What it affects |
|---|---|---|
| Arm binds or hits | Rack loading, arm seated level | Rotation and coverage |
| Dishes dirty on bottom rack | Clogged spray holes, blocked inlet | Spray pressure |
| No heat or poor drying | Heating circuit components | Water temp and drying |
The lower spray arm is the main wash action for the bottom rack. If it is not seated correctly or cannot rotate freely, water spray will not reach the detergent dispenser area and heavily soiled cookware, leading to poor cleaning.
Last updated: February 2026
How do I tell what model Kenmore dishwasher I have?
To identify your Kenmore dishwasher model, open the door and look for the model and serial number label on the inner door frame or tub opening. On Kenmore dishwashers, that label is the quickest way to confirm the exact model number you need for parts and troubleshooting; for this page, the model is 66517372301.
Check these common label locations in this order:
- Along the inner door frame (left or right side)
- On the top edge of the door
- On the tub wall near the door opening
- Behind the lower toe panel area (if your model uses a label there)
- In the paperwork that came with the unit (use and care guide)
For diagrams and the exact “model and serial number label” location used on this design, use the owner's manual.
Kenmore dishwasher model numbers are typically a long number string. Many Kenmore dishwashers start with 665 (a common Kenmore prefix for this style of dishwasher), followed by additional digits that identify the exact configuration.
| What you see | What it means | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Starts with 665 | Common Kenmore dishwasher prefix | Write down the full number, not just 665 |
| Extra digits after 665 | Exact model variant | Match the full model to the parts list |
| Serial number nearby | Production identifier | Record it for service history and reference |
Using the full model number ensures we match the correct parts and fit. Small model differences can change key items such as the heating circuit, door sealing surfaces, and water fill components.
Common examples on this model family include:
- Heating issues that can involve the dishwasher heater W10518394
- Leaks that can involve the dishwasher door seal W10542314
- Fill problems that can involve the dishwasher water inlet valve WP8531669
- Copy the model number exactly as printed (all digits, no spaces)
- Take a clear photo of the label before it wears or gets stained
- Keep the model and serial number together in your home records
Last updated: February 2026
Can you still get parts for a Kenmore dishwasher?
Yes. We still carry replacement parts for many Kenmore dishwashers, including Kenmore model 66517372301. The key is matching parts to your exact model number so the fit and electrical ratings are correct for items like the heater, door seal, drain hose, or water inlet valve.
Use the model number 66517372301 to shop by the exact parts breakdown and avoid ordering a similar looking part that will not mount or connect correctly.
- Confirm the full model number from the rating label on the dishwasher
- Identify the symptom (leaking, not draining, not heating, not dispensing)
- Match the part by name and ID, not just by appearance
- Check whether you need related hardware (clamps, seals, gaskets)
- Use the diagrams and part list in the 66517372301 owner's manual
These are examples of parts available for Kenmore 66517372301 that often solve everyday problems:
- Heating issues: dishwasher heater W10518394
- Leaks at the door: dishwasher door seal W10542314
- Drain problems or sink backup: dishwasher drain hose 8269144A
- No fill or slow fill: dishwasher water inlet valve WP8531669
- Soap door not working well: dishwasher dispenser WP8558129
| Symptom | What to check first | Example part on this model |
|---|---|---|
| Dishes not drying or water stays cool | Heater circuit and thermostat | Dishwasher heater, dishwasher thermostat |
| Water on floor at the front | Door seal and door closure | Dishwasher door seal |
| Dishwasher will not drain | Drain hose routing and clogs | Dishwasher drain hose |
| Dishwasher will not fill | Inlet valve and supply line | Dishwasher water inlet valve |
Kenmore dishwashers are built for years of dependable operation, but normal wear items (seals, hoses, heaters, and dispensers) eventually fail. Using the correct model-matched part helps restore wash performance and prevents repeat leaks or electrical issues.
Last updated: February 2026
Is it worth repairing a Kenmore dishwasher?
Yes, repairing a Kenmore dishwasher model 66517372301 is usually worth it when the problem is a common wear item (leaks, draining issues, heating problems) and the repair cost stays well below the price of a replacement. This model’s documentation also outlines multi-year coverage on certain components, which can make repair the clear choice; check your purchase date and coverage details in the owner's manual.
Use these checkpoints before you buy parts or schedule service:
- Age and condition: Dishwashers typically last 10 years; if yours is under that and the tub is solid, repair makes sense.
- Repair cost: If the repair is under 50% of replacement cost, repair is usually the better value.
- Symptom type: Leaks, no-heat, and drain problems are often straightforward part replacements.
- Warranty coverage: This model’s manual describes 1-year full warranty, 2-year coverage on the electronic control and power supply board, and additional coverage on parts of the wash system after the first year (terms apply).
- Parts availability: If the needed part is in stock, downtime is shorter.
These are frequent, high-impact fixes that can restore performance:
- No heat or poor drying: replace the dishwasher heater W10518394
- Not draining or slow draining: inspect/replace the dishwasher drain hose 8269144A
- Door leaking: replace the dishwasher door seal W10542314
- Not filling or weak fill: replace the dishwasher water inlet valve WP8531669
- Soap door not opening or dispenser leaking: replace the dishwasher dispenser WP8558129
| Repair type | Typical difficulty | Typical payoff |
|---|---|---|
| Door seal or drain hose | Easy to moderate | Stops leaks and drain errors fast |
| Heater or thermostat | Moderate | Restores wash temp and drying |
| Circulation pump/motor | Moderate to advanced | Fixes poor cleaning and low spray |
| Tub replacement | Advanced | Usually only worth it with strong overall condition |
A dishwasher that heats correctly, fills to the right level, and seals at the door will clean better, dry better, and avoid cabinet or floor damage. Repairing those core functions usually extends usable life for years.
Last updated: February 2026





