How to Replace a Dishwasher Rack

Sometimes there is no other choice than to replace your dishwasher rack after it has given you nothing but continuous heartache. Maybe it is due to a bad track, bad wheels, or maybe the rack itself is simply falling apart. After all, dishwasher racks aren't intended to last forever. Whatever the reason may be, there is no need to call in a professional for a job you can do yourself.

Materials You Will Need

• Screwdriver (Phillips or flat head depending on the screws)
• New Dishwasher Racks (complete with new tracks and screws)

Step 1-Remove the Old Racks

Pull the top rack all the way out of your dishwasher, exposing the tracks. Some dishwasher models have pins that you will need to remove in order to completely remove the rack from the track. Other models simply have to be lifted in an upward direction as you would lift an oven rack to remove it from the oven. Once you have removed the top rack, remove the bottom rack as well.  Discard both racks as you will have no need for them. 

Step 2-Remove the Old Tracks

Using your screwdriver, remove the screws that are holding the tracks into place. Since the new racks come with new screws and tracks, you can discard all of the old materials.  You may want to save the screws to use at a later date on another project as long as they are not rusted and are still in good shape.  Even if the track appears to be perfectly fine, it is a good idea to replace them as the new rack is fit to run in the new tracks that it came with.

Step 3-Install the New Tracks

Screw the new tracks into place using the new hardware provided with your new dishwasher racks. Ensure the holes are not stripped. If the holes are stripped, you can take an eraser the size of the hole, soak it in carpenter’s glue, and wedge it into the hole. This will need to dry overnight (or a minimum of 12 hours).  You will be able to drill a new hole into the eraser and successfully attach your tracks. There are other ways to fill the hole; however, this is one of the easiest, quickest and most convenient.

Step 4-Install the New Dishwasher Racks

Install the dishwasher racks the same way you would put them back in if you had merely removed them for cleaning. Place the rear wheels on the track, lift the front upward, slide the wheels under the catch, set the rack back down, and push it the rest of the way into the dishwasher. Double check that the rack does not get caught anywhere and slides forward and back smoothly.  If your model has pins that hold the rack in, make sure you re-insert the pins to prevent any damage to the racks during use.  Always clear the drain and ensure it is free of debris before each use, easiest done when the racks are removed.