Fabric softener dispenser clogged..?

[seamlyne]

I have a Kenmore 70 Series washing machine, at least ten years old. The f.s. dispenser is a barrel shaped piece that mounts on top of the agitator. During the spin cycle, the softener is siphoned into chambers along the side. When the spinning stops, the liquid falls out through holes in the underside.

I first noticed that there was still liquid in the dispenser after the spin cycle - I let it go a few washes thinking that maybe I'd overfilled it, but the liquid is still there.

Any thoughts on how to unclog it? I tried sealing the top and blowing in, but I strained my cheeks without getting any liquid out the bottom. With the recent birth of our son (Sept 12), we're doing laundry much more often, so having the softener would be nice.

- Wm

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Cut with an axe.

[HayZee518]

The top unscrews off the agitator or just unsnaps. There's an inside element (pot) that separates from the main body. pull it apart and stick inna dishwasher to clean it then snap back together.

[seamlyne]

quote:Originally posted by HayZee518

The top unscrews off the agitator or just unsnaps. There's an inside element (pot) that separates from the main body. pull it apart and stick inna dishwasher to clean it then snap back together.

Thanks Hayzee. Yes, the dispenser has a ring around the bottom that snaps down and holds it tight to the agitator. We remove it periodically to clean the outside where it's gotten caked over time.

So, working with just the dispenser I examined it under a bright light, pulled on the thing, got a screwdriver in between the bottom edges and tried prying it apart, and by some miracle of engineering it appears to be molded in one piece.

I found the part online, so worst come to worst I can order a new one, thought I'm fairly willing to bet that the shipping will be as much as the part. I'll go after it with a bottle brush, but working blind I expect it'll be a little tough to unclog the holes.

If I do have to order, is there anyone with any experience with http://www.partsdepotonline.com, positive or negative?

Measure with a micrometer
Mark with a crayon
Cut with an axe.