KitchenAid Dishwasher Upper Rack Adjuster Parts — Models & Compatibility

If your KitchenAid dishwasher's upper rack won't adjust properly or feels loose when you try to change heights, the W10195840 rack adjuster positioner is what you need. This small but critical component controls the height adjustment mechanism on the upper rack — when it fails, you're stuck with dishes that don't fit or a rack that droops to one side. This hub covers compatibility for KitchenAid models plus compatible Whirlpool, Kenmore, Maytag, and Jenn-Air dishwashers that use the same rack system.

Is This the Right Part for Your Model?

Check your dishwasher's model number on the side edge of the door (open it and look at the frame) or inside the tub along the top rim. Match it against the list below — this adjuster fits over 100 models across the KitchenAid KUDS, KUDE, KDTE, KDFE, and KDTM series. The part number W10195840 replaces several older versions including WPW10195840, AP6016800, 1872228, PS11750093, and W10418323, so if you see any of those listed for your model, this is the correct replacement.

About This Replacement Part

The upper rack adjuster is the plastic mechanism that locks into place when you raise or lower your dishwasher's top rack. It sits at each corner of the rack and clips into the track rails along the dishwasher's side walls. Over time, the plastic tabs wear down or crack — especially if you've been forcing the rack up and down or overloading it with heavy cookware. When one adjuster breaks, the rack tilts or won't stay at the height you set it to. You'll usually need to replace adjusters in pairs (left and right side) to keep the rack level, though technically each corner has its own adjuster. This is a genuine OEM-equivalent replacement that restores the smooth height adjustment KitchenAid originally designed into these dishwashers.

Compatible KitchenAid Models

This rack adjuster works with KitchenAid dishwashers from multiple series. The most common are the KUDS (undercounter) and KDTE (top control) models, but it also fits KUDE (front control) and KDFE (fully integrated) series. If your model starts with any of these prefixes, check the full model number below to confirm fit.

Installation Overview

Replacing the upper rack adjuster doesn't require tools in most cases. Pull the upper rack completely out of the dishwasher (it usually lifts up and forward once fully extended). Locate the adjuster at the corner of the rack where it connects to the track rail. Press the release tabs or squeeze the adjuster body to disengage it from the rack frame, then snap the new adjuster into place. Slide the rack back into the tracks and test the height adjustment at each position to make sure it locks securely.

Cross-Brand Compatibility

Since Whirlpool manufactures KitchenAid appliances, this same adjuster appears in Whirlpool, Kenmore (built by Whirlpool), Maytag, and some Jenn-Air dishwashers. If you've got a Whirlpool WDF or WDT series, a Kenmore 665 series, or a Maytag MDB model, check your parts diagram — many use this exact component. The rack rail system is standardized across these brands for dishwashers manufactured from roughly 2008 onward.