How to Fix Rack adjuster broken on Whirlpool WDT970SAKZ

Rack adjuster broken

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to fix a broken rack adjuster on your Whirlpool WDT970SAKZ. With the right tools and parts, you can complete this repair in about 1–2 hours, saving yourself a costly service call.

Part of our Top 20 Dishwasher Models & Common Repair Issues Guide. Browse all dishwasher repair guides for related models and issues.

Common Symptoms & Causes

If your Whirlpool WDT970SAKZ dishwasher has a broken rack adjuster, you might notice one or more of the following symptoms during loading or operation:

• The upper dish rack drops unevenly or collapses on one side when loaded.
• The rack adjuster button snaps or feels loose and no longer locks into position.
• The upper rack slides out unexpectedly during the wash cycle.
• One side of the rack sits noticeably lower than the other, causing dishes to shift.

These issues typically arise from normal wear and stress fractures in the plastic adjuster housing, which weaken over time and eventually lead to broken locking tabs or release buttons.

Safety First

• Unplug the dishwasher from the power outlet before starting any repair — never work on a live appliance.
• Shut off the water supply valve before disconnecting any water lines or hoses.
• Wear work gloves when handling metal brackets, sheet metal edges, or sharp components.
• Take photos with your phone before disconnecting any wiring harnesses or connectors.
• Work in a well-lit area with enough floor space to lay removed panels flat.

Tools & Parts Needed

Essential Tools

• Phillips #2 screwdriver
• Torx T20 screwdriver
• Needle-nose pliers
• Multimeter
• Flashlight

Replacement Parts

• Upper rack adjuster kit
• rack wheels (set of 4–8)
• soft cloth

Step-by-Step Repair Instructions

Step 1

Start by opening the dishwasher and pulling the upper rack all the way out for clear access. Locate the height adjuster levers—these are usually orange or gray plastic tabs mounted on the outside of each rack rail. Check for visible cracks, broken tabs, or any lever that feels loose and fails to snap into position; these signs confirm the adjuster is the culprit.

Step 2

If you find an adjuster lever that’s cracked or doesn’t click firmly into place, it needs to be replaced. A damaged lever won’t hold the rack level, leading to poor wash coverage and rattling during cycles. To replace it, flex the old lever outward to unclip it from the rail mounting points, then press the new adjuster unit firmly onto those same points until it snaps into place. Pro tip: order adjuster assemblies in pairs to ensure both sides match and prevent uneven rack lean.

Step 3

With the rack pulled out, inspect each wheel along the bottom for cracks, flat spots, or missing chunks. Damaged wheels can cause the rack to bind or tip instead of rolling smoothly in the tub rails. Replace any cracked wheels by pressing the old one off its axle pin and snapping the new wheel on—no tools required. I recommend using genuine OEM wheels, as aftermarket versions might vary slightly in diameter, causing the same binding issues.

Step 4

Before reinstalling the rack, wipe out both rack rail channels on the tub side walls with a soft damp cloth. Grease, mineral deposits, and food debris can accumulate in these channels, creating resistance that mimics the symptoms of bad wheels or a broken adjuster, so cleaning first ensures you’re not overlooking a simple fix. Avoid abrasive pads that could scratch the channel surface and create rough spots for future buildup.

Step 5

Slide the upper rack back into the rail channels and test all three height positions by pressing the adjuster levers and moving the rack up or down. Each position should drop in and click firmly without any wobble or tilt, confirming that the adjusters and wheels are seated correctly. If any position feels soft or fails to hold, re-examine the adjuster on that side—a new part that doesn’t click fully may not be seated properly.

Step 6

Once the rack operates correctly, set its height to match your current load. Raise the upper rack to its highest position to clear the lower rack for tall pots or casserole dishes, and lower it when washing tall glasses or stemware to prevent contact with the spray arm or tub ceiling. Taking a moment to adjust before each wash cycle protects your dishes and ensures the spray arms can rotate freely for a thorough clean.

Where to Buy Replacement Parts

You can find genuine OEM and aftermarket replacement parts for your Whirlpool WDT970SAKZ on Amazon:

• Whirlpool WDT970SAKZ upper rack adjuster W11165546 replacement
• Whirlpool dishwasher upper rack height adjustment lever replacement
• Whirlpool dishwasher rack wheel W10195417 replacement

When to Call a Professional

If the problem persists after you’ve followed all the steps, it may be a sign of a failed main control board, a seized circulation or drain pump, or wiring that needs specialized diagnostic equipment. In that case, it’s best to contact a licensed appliance technician — and don’t forget to shut off the water supply valve before any work that opens the fill or drain circuit.

How Much Does This Repair Cost?

Replacing a broken rack adjuster on the Whirlpool WDT970SAKZ typically costs $15–$45 in parts if you do it yourself. If you opt for a professional service call for the same repair, expect to pay $150–$300 once you factor in labor and fees. Choosing the DIY route can save you over $100, making this an affordable fix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still use my Whirlpool WDT970SAKZ if the rack adjuster is broken?

You can run the dishwasher, but a broken rack adjuster may lead to the upper rack sitting unevenly, resulting in poor wash results or potential dish damage. It’s best to replace it promptly.

What part do I need to fix the rack adjuster on the WDT970SAKZ?

You’ll need a compatible upper rack adjuster kit for the Whirlpool WDT970SAKZ, typically sold as a pair. Be sure to check your model number before ordering to ensure the correct fit.

How long does this rack adjuster repair take?

Most homeowners can complete this repair in 15 to 30 minutes without needing any special tools. The adjuster clips directly onto the rack without disassembling the dishwasher.

Recommended Products

Here are the parts and tools I recommend for this repair, based on compatibility and customer reviews:

• W10712394 Dishwasher Upper Rack Adjuster Metal Kit Compatible with Kenmore Whirlpool by AMI PARTS – Replaces W10712394VP, AP5956100, W10350376, PS10064063
• W10350376 Dishwasher Top Rack Adjuster Parts by Romalon Compatible with Whirlpool Heavy Duty Wheels Upgraded Metal Screw Replaces W10712394 Ap5956100 Ps10064063 W10238418 W10253546 W10712394Vp

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The Rack Wheels That Actually Stop the Upper Rack from Dragging on the WDT970SAKZ

When the adjuster clips crack or the wheels wear flat, the upper rack stops gliding smoothly and starts binding or dragging—this is the real culprit behind most “rack won’t move” complaints on this model. Swapping out all four to eight wheels is usually the fastest path to a working rack again, and it’s cheaper than replacing the entire adjuster assembly.

What works

• Wheels come pre-matched as a set, so you’re not hunting for individual sizes or struggling with mismatched pairs that cause the rack to tilt.
• Installing them is genuinely simple—pop off the old wheel, slide the new one onto the axle pin, and you’re done in seconds per corner; no special tools needed.
• The difference is immediately noticeable; a rack that was stuttering or stuck suddenly glides smoothly again, even under a full load of dishes.

What doesn’t

• If the adjuster clips themselves are actually cracked or bent, new wheels alone won’t fix the problem—you’ll still have a binding rack and will need to replace the full adjuster kit instead.
• Wheels vary slightly between aftermarket suppliers in material hardness; some softer compounds wear faster, so compatibility can be hit-or-miss if you don’t order the right set for your specific adjuster design.

I’ve had homeowners call back because they ordered wheels alone when the real issue was a cracked clip—take a close look at the adjuster assembly before ordering, because a visual inspection of the plastic clips themselves will save you a return trip. If everything looks intact, rack wheels (set of 4–8) will get the job done.

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