Kenmore Dishwasher Drain Pump 66577989K703 – What It Does and How to Replace It
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Understanding the Problem
What this part is and why it matters: The 66577989K703 is the drain pump assembly used on some Kenmore/Sears dishwashers. It removes wash water from the tub and pushes it into the household drain. When the drain pump fails or is blocked, the dishwasher will not drain properly and can leave water in the tub. Step-by-step diagnostic and repair procedure: 1) Safety first: disconnect power to the dishwasher at the breaker and turn off the water supply if you will be working on hoses. Do not attempt electrical tests with the appliance energized unless you know what you are doing. 2) Confirm the symptom: run a drain cycle or a short wash and watch whether water is pumped out. Note any unusual noises (humming, grinding) from the bottom front of the unit. 3) Check simple service items: a) Remove and inspect the filter and sump area for foreign objects (glass, food, labels) that may jam the impeller. b) Inspect the drain hose under the sink for kinks, clogs, or a clogged garbage disposal knockout plug. c) Make sure the air gap (if fitted) and sink outlet are clear. 4) Access the pump: a) Pull the dishwasher out and remove the lower access panel (toe-kick) or lay the dishwasher on its back to access the underside (follow the model-specific manual for safe access). b) Locate the drain pump (usually on the side toward the front) and visually inspect the housing and hoses for cracks or leaks. 5) Test the pump motor electrically: a) Unplug the connector to the pump and use a multimeter set to continuity or ohms. You should get a finite resistance reading; an open circuit indicates a burned-out motor. b) If you are experienced and take proper safety precautions, you can briefly energize the pump to observe operation — but this is not recommended for most homeowners. 6) Mechanical check: try to spin the impeller (with power disconnected). If it does not turn freely or is blocked, remove debris or replace the pump. 7) Remove the pump: a) Put towels under the work area to catch drips and disconnect the drain hose(s) and wiring harness from the pump. b) Remove mounting screws or clips holding the pump assembly. Note orientation and hose routing so you can reinstall correctly. c) Remove the old pump and compare the new pump (66577989K703) to ensure hoses, connectors, and mounting points match. 8) Install the replacement pump: a) Fit the new pump into position, fasten mounting hardware, reconnect the wiring harness and hoses using new clamps if necessary. b) Re-seat any gaskets or seals and route the drain hose as it was originally. c) Restore power and run a short drain/program to check for leaks and confirm proper draining. 9) Final checks: inspect for leaks while the pump runs, verify there are no unusual noises, and confirm the dishwasher drains fully. Safety note: always disconnect electrical power before working on the dishwasher. If you are unsure about testing or wiring, hire a qualified appliance technician. Handling live mains voltage is hazardous.
Common Symptoms
Dishwasher won't drain or leaves water in the tub; gurgling or humming noises from the bottom; visible leaks near the base; drain cycle error or extended drain times.
Common Causes
- Sump or impeller clogged with debris (glass, food, labels)
- Drain pump motor failed or seized
- Kinked/clogged drain hose or blocked garbage disposal/sink outlet
- Wiring/connectors or control board not powering pump
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
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Helpful Repair Tip
Listen for a humming or grinding sound during the drain cycle and check for an open circuit at the pump motor with a multimeter. If the impeller won't spin freely or the motor shows no continuity, the pump (66577989K703) is likely bad.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I test if the drain pump is bad?
Turn off power and access the pump. Remove debris and try to spin the impeller by hand — it should turn freely. Unplug the pump connector and use a multimeter to check for continuity; an open circuit typically means the motor is failed. If the impeller turns but the pump hums and doesn't move water, the motor is likely weak or the internal seal/impeller is damaged. For definitive testing, a professional can briefly energize the pump under safe conditions to observe operation.
Can I replace the 66577989K703 pump myself and are generic pumps acceptable?
Yes — a competent DIYer can replace this pump. Basic tools: screwdriver/socket set, pliers, multimeter, towels. Steps: disconnect power, remove access panel, drain water, disconnect hoses/wiring, remove old pump, install new pump, reconnect and test. Using an OEM (genuine) pump like 66577989K703 ensures proper fit and electrical connectors; some aftermarket pumps may fit but verify compatibility with your specific Kenmore model number before buying.
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