Detergent Dispenser Actuator

My dishwasher is old, but these directions may apply widely. I removed the front panel assembly per the instructions in the manual for changing the front panel. Open the door and remove two screws on each side facing the front of the door. Not the 3 screws holding the trim strip or the top screws holding the control panel. Close the door ... Read more holding the panel in place, then pull out the lower edge and let the panel down. The dispenser is now visible. The bi-metal mechanism is held by a single bolt. I used a small socket wrench to remove it, but you could probably use an adjustable wrench or even pliers. Note the position of the mechanism before you pull it off. Then simply install the new mechanism making sure it will open the dispenser cover. Be careful reinstalling the panel assembly. With the dishwasher door still closed, hold the panel by both sides and slide the top edge up into position under the control panel. Hold the panel in place, open the door, and replace the two screws on each side. You may have to slide the panel around a bit to align the screw holes. If you want to check to make sure everything works right, you could operate the dishwasher before reinstalling the panel assembly