Kitchen Large Electric Appliances - Maytag Dishwasher - upper spray wand problem

I have a Maytag model wu203 dishwasher and have in intermittent problem with the upper spray wand. Most of the time it works as it should, but occasionally it won't spray. When it won't spray, the lower wand works normally. This can happen during the wash or rinse cycles. A little water does out out of the upper wand during this situation, but not enough to make it spin. Any ideas what to look for?

Hello: Drew

Most likely cause is a water flow restriction. Which could be in the spray wand itself. Remove the wand and check the interior for soap and residue. Clear and clean as needed.

While the wand is removed, allow the machine to run for a brief time. The out flowing water may likely help to flush out the water line, if there happens to be any sediment, etc. in the line.

Than reinstall wand and note any difference. If all is oaky, problem solved. If not, slide out machine and check the water delivery line(s). Restrictions in the water delivery line is also possible.

A weak water pump (rare condition) can also be the cause. Since the pump is below the water line, the water takes the path of least resistance. Which is the lower wand.

For more detailed information read the recent postings within this forum. The questions already asked describe like or similarly related problem descriptions as your question. Those prior postings and all the replies offered within them contain almost all the required information needed.

Read the manufacturers online web site for additional product information, problem possibilities, causes, solving methods, part locations, disassembly, reassembly methods, repair procedures, pictorials, schematics, downloadable repair and or owners manuals, which may be available online.

Search the manufacturers web site for a downloadable version of the owners or service manual. The file will be a pdf file opened with Adobe, which also needs to be downloaded first but worth having once obtained.

Retail appliance parts dealers can also help determine what the possible problem may be. Bring the make, model and serial numbers. Appliance part stores and parts dealers are listed in the phone book.

Check back on your question several more times. Other members posting replies in this forum topic may offer you additional advice, suggestions and or repair methods.

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Hey, thanks. Wand had a couple of nozzles blocked, cleaned them out but no improvement. Let the machine run without upper wand for a while, no improvement. Not sure blocked line the problem as the machine generally works perfectly, then occasionally has this upper wand problem. Often, cylcing the machine causes it to suddenly work properly again. I'll have to slide the machine out as suggested and inspect. I'll let you know what I find out.

Didn't pull the machine out, but inspected hose going to upper wand at the pump outlet. Looked perfectly fine, so decided to take apart the sump and check. Turned out filter screen was about 80% blocked, so cleaned it really well. Couldn't get the hard deposits out, but probably only about 30% blocked now. Tried it out - now upper wand works perfectly. Hopefully that's it!
Thanks for the advice. :)