No brand dishwasher

Shellac indicates that you've lost a motor winding somehow. It's very unlikely to be a capacitor problem (IMO).

It'll have burnt out the motor winding where the brushes were resting when the motor jammed. Hence, no spinning when power is reapplied.

IME, dishwaster motors are induction motors, but it may still be burned out.

Hi,

Usually with electrical stuff there is a 'ratings plate' somewhere on the unit with serial and model numbers.

cheers, Pete.

Yes, I imagine you will need to turn the machine on the side to remove the motor.

Any decent Domestic appliance spares stockist should be able to identify the motor just by looking at it.

Once you have a model number you could try

Alternatively, try your local tip, sorry "Household waste recycling centre" as they often have scrap machines going for £3 or so. 9 times out of 10 the parts will be servicable. Strip the spares you need on site rather than taking the machine away.

sponix

I found out how to get into it and inspected the motor. It seems all OK but have ordered a new capacitor in the hope that it will work.

I found that it is an induction motor running an impeller. That forces water through the spinner making it turn. So the stuck spinner was nothing to do with the fault. Haven't told SWMBO yet, still making use of the guilt trip. :-)

It is an induction motor driving a pump.

There is nothing anywhere, but research suggested a Merloni (Indesit).

Yes you will probably find if you tip it in its side, you can remove the bottom plate to get access to the pumps and pipes. Also remember to use a wet dry vacuum (or other method) either on the waste pipe or "sump" to remove all water from machine before tipping over or else you will end up having a slight flood incident with the water that remains in the machine.

Upside down was the key. Bottom off and all becomes clear.

I emailed an on-line company who think it's a Merloni (Indesit).

They don't have a direct replacement capaicor listed, so in view of the help I received, I have paid retail (£6) for a new capacitor in the hope that it will sort the problem.