[AIRMAINT]

Two days ago, when opening the dishwasher to empty it, I experienced a burnt electrical odor coming from the washer compartment. My first thought it that it was the heater element. Upon inspection, it does not appear to have any external indication of burning out. However, I realize that it might not alway be apparent.

The last two nights I ran the dishwasher with the heated dry not selected. Yesterday morning, I noticed a slight odor and after running it last night, I noticed none today.

First, it there any way to test the element to make sure that it is working, other than running the unit?

Second, is there any resistance measurement which I might take to check that element?

Finally, if the element requires replacement, does the unit have to be removed from underneath the counter to gain access or is it removable from the tub side?

Any info you be appreciated. Thanks

[PS Staff - Sheila]

If you are getting an electrical odor it is best to turn the power to the dishwasher off and have it check out.

There may be a recall on the dishwasher.

You will need the serial number off the dishwasher.

Call this number, Maytag
Customer Experience Center US 1-800-688-9900 Canada 1-800-688-2002 or Consumer Parts Dept 877-232-6771.

[AIRMAINT]

Since I posted the problem, I have ordered several parts and spoken to several technicians at several different parts distributors. Here is some information someone might find useful.

There has been a heater element change for the Maytag MDB8600AWS Dishwasher. The original part (99002625) has been replaced by part number 99002971. The installation of this new part requires a different nut, part # 99002972 (2 required). You cannot reuse the old nuts (part # 99002627) since they are too large for the studs on the new heater. Also, gaskets are included with the new heater so no new o-rings or gaskets need to be purchased.

One word of caution, Parts distributors are still showing that the old nuts are used to attach the new heater - this is incorrect. The requirement for the new attaching nuts is not shown in any Part Select.com information and as I have come to find out, nobody else is aware of it either, except Maytag. I have made Maytag their oversight to communicate this piece of information.

The dishwasher has to be removed from under the cabinet in order to gain access to the nuts which are located on the bottom of the tub near the back.

Hope this helps someone as I have exhausted about a month researching and waiting for the proper parts.