[stnd]

I'm about to tear into my Kenmore dishwasher. It no longer drys and neither is there any steam venting from it during the washing cycle as it formerly did.

Before I jump in I am wondering what the difference in functions are between the thermister and the thermostat are? I am not clear from the parts diagram that came with the washer where these items are located. I would think I should be able to view them and check them for continuity after I pull the dishwasher out and attack it from the rear.

Should the heating element be around 10-15 ohms? I would guess that the thermister and thermostat should be closed.

Finally the heating element is listed as a kit (PS972323) does this mean that the washers are included?

Ciao,
Stan

[PS Staff - Sheila]

You should be able to access the component from the front of the dishwasher without removing it from the installed position.

The thermistor and the thermostat both sense temperature.

The thermistor senses the water temper of the water and will stall the dishwasher if the water is not hot enough. It is located on the pump housing.

The thermostat will cut the heater off it the temperature is to high. It is located on the tub.

There are rating on the thermostats.

The resistance of the heating element depends on the wattage. If the resistance is given on your wiring diagram go by that.

Yes the kit will included the washers but not the nuts.

Here is a link to the parts of your dishwasher model 66517519202.