How to Install Upper Wheel Assembly WP99002781 in a Whirlpool Dishwasher

Quick answer: Pull the upper rack forward, release the rail end stops so the rack lifts out of both side rails, and set it on a towel. Pry the worn wheel off the rack side, press WP99002781 onto the same mount until it clicks, then guide the wheels back into the rails and roll the rack to check tracking.

Upper wheel assembly WP99002781 is the roller mounted on the side of the upper dishrack in Whirlpool-built dishwashers, including Maytag and Amana models such as MDB4651AWS0 and ADB1500AWS46. Unlike lower rack wheels that simply roll across the tub floor, this wheel rides inside a rail fixed to the tub wall, so it carries the rack weight while also keeping it aligned. The manufacturer describes it as a dishrack roller that lets the rack roll in and out. When it cracks or wears, the upper rack tilts, binds partway out, and glasses start tipping over.

The job is straightforward, but it has one extra step compared with a lower rack wheel: the upper rack must be released from its rails before the wheel can be reached. On most of these dishwashers the rail has a stop or clip at the front that keeps the rack from rolling out. Once that is released, the rack lifts free and the wheels are exposed. Plan to inspect all the upper wheels while the rack is out, because they wear as a set.

See part details and every compatible model: WP99002781

⚠️ Safety First
  • Allow the dishwasher to cool completely; the upper rack sits closest to the heating element vapor.
  • Wear gloves. Rack wire ends and rail edges can be sharp.
  • Support the upper rack with both hands when releasing the rail stops so it does not drop onto the lower rack.
  • Keep the screwdriver pointed away from you when prying the wheel.
  • Do not run a cycle with the upper rack unsupported; it can fall onto the lower spray arm.

Tools and Parts You Need

  • Upper wheel assembly WP99002781 (one per worn wheel)
  • Flat-blade screwdriver
  • Work gloves
  • Towel to protect the rack and countertop
  • Flashlight for looking inside the rails
  • Needle-nose pliers
  • Damp cloth for cleaning the rails

Step-by-Step Installation

  1. Empty and extend the upper rack Open the door and pull the upper rack all the way forward until it stops against the rail ends.
  2. Release the rail stops At the front of each side rail, find the stop or clip that keeps the rack in. Flip it open or press its tab so the rack wheels can pass. Some models have a small lever; others use a snap-on end cap.
  3. Lift the rack out With the stops released, roll the rack forward until the wheels clear the rails, lift it out, and set it on a towel with the wheels facing you.
  4. Inspect all upper wheels Spin each wheel. Look for cracks at the hub, flat spots, or a wheel that has walked sideways on its axle. Also check the rails inside the tub for debris.
  5. Pry off the old wheel Slide the screwdriver behind the wheel hub where it clips to the rack frame and lever it outward until it releases. Remove any broken axle pieces with pliers.
  6. Install WP99002781 Match the orientation of the old wheel, place the clip against the rack mount, and press firmly until it snaps. Tug it to confirm it is locked and spin it to be sure it turns freely.
  7. Return the rack to the rails Hold the rack level, feed the rear wheels into both rails at the same time, then push the rack in. Refasten the front stops so the rack cannot roll out.
  8. Test the travel Roll the rack fully in and out several times. It should move smoothly and stop at the rail ends without dropping or binding.

Fit Checks Before You Call the Job Done

  • WP99002781 clicks onto the rack mount and cannot be pulled off by hand.
  • The wheel spins freely and sits centered inside the rail channel.
  • The upper rack is level from side to side and front to back when extended.
  • The rail stops are refastened and the rack stops firmly at the front.
  • Your dishwasher is one of the listed models, for example MDB4650AWW, ADB2500AWS40, or MDB8600AWQ.
  • The upper spray arm under the rack spins without touching the rack.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Trying to replace the wheel with the rack still in the rails There is no room to work inside the rail. Release the stops and remove the rack first.

Forgetting to refasten the rail stops Without the stops, a loaded upper rack rolls straight out and onto the door. Snap them back before loading dishes.

Installing a lower rack wheel here Lower wheels are shaped to roll on a flat surface, not inside a rail. Use WP99002781 for the upper rack only.

Ignoring worn rails A wheel that wore through was likely riding in a scaled or gouged rail. Clean the rails and check for cracks.

Feeding the wheels into the rails unevenly If one side goes in first the rack twists and the wheel can pop out again. Guide both sides in together.

Troubleshooting After Installation

Upper rack binds halfway out A wheel is not seated in the rail or debris is inside the channel. Remove the rack, wipe the rails, and reinsert both sides evenly.

Rack tilts to one side One wheel is still worn or the new one is not fully clicked on. Compare all wheels and press the loose one until it snaps.

Rack rolls out and drops The front rail stops were not refastened. Push the rack in and lock the stops.

Grinding noise when rolling the rack Mineral scale in the rail is rubbing the wheel. Clean the rails with vinegar and a cloth.

Care Tips After the Repair

  • Wipe out the side rails every few months so grit does not wear the wheel hubs.
  • Load heavy items in the lower rack; overweight upper racks flatten the wheels.
  • Do not lean on the extended upper rack while loading.
  • Check the rail stops occasionally; a broken stop lets the rack overshoot and stress the wheels.
  • Replace wheels as a set when two or more show wear.

Compatible Models (Sample)

This part is listed for 48 Whirlpool models in our fitment data. Always confirm your exact model number on the appliance's rating plate.

Repair Difficulty and Time

Difficulty: Easy. Typical time: 15 to 25 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does WP99002781 fit the lower rack too?

No. It is designed for the upper rack, where the wheel runs inside a side rail. The lower rack uses a different wheel assembly.

How do I get the upper rack out of the rails?

Pull it fully forward, release the stop or clip at the front of each rail, then roll the rack out until the wheels clear and lift it free.

Why did my upper wheel wear out so fast?

Dirty or scaled rails, overloaded upper racks, and pulling the rack out at an angle all accelerate wear. Clean the rails when you install the new wheel.

Which dishwashers use this upper wheel?

It is listed for Whirlpool-built Maytag and Amana models such as MDB4651AWB40, ADB1200AWW, and MDB5601AWW. Check the model label on the door edge before ordering.

Final Checklist

  • Dishwasher cool and upper rack emptied
  • Front rail stops released and rack lifted out
  • All upper wheels inspected and worn ones identified
  • Old wheel pried off without bending the rack mount
  • WP99002781 snapped on and spinning freely
  • Rails wiped clean inside
  • Rack fed evenly into both rails and stops refastened
  • Rack rolls smoothly full travel without tilt

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