Dishwasher Racks Chipped or Rusting? Dishrack Repair Kit 4396838RC — Restore Your Racks Fast
Chipped, rusted, or worn dishwasher rack tines are one of the most common — and most overlooked — dishwasher problems. In most Whirlpool-built dishwashers, the vinyl coating on rack tines wears through over time, exposing bare metal that rusts and scratches dishes. When it fails, rust spots appear on dishes, tines snag and tear delicate items, and the rack becomes difficult to load properly. ⚡ Common wear point in Whirlpool, KitchenAid, and Maytag dishwashers. Part 4396838RC is the genuine OEM replacement kit that restores rack tines and touch-up finishes the chipped coating — returning your racks to like-new condition without a full rack replacement.
❓ Is This the Right Part?
This is the correct fix if ALL of the following are true:
- ✔ QUALIFIER 1 — your dishwasher powers on and runs a full wash cycle normally
- ✔ QUALIFIER 2 — water fills, sprays, and drains correctly
- ✔ QUALIFIER 3 — the issue is cosmetic/physical rack damage, not a wash performance problem
- ✔ ONLY problem is chipped, rusted, or worn tine tips on the upper or lower rack
Not sure? Send us your model number — we'll confirm before you order.
🔧 Common Symptoms
- Rust spots or orange staining appearing on dishes after washing
- Tine tips are cracked, missing, or exposing bare metal wire
- Dishes rattle or tip over because tines no longer hold them upright
- Rack coating is peeling or flaking off in chunks
✔ If these symptoms match, this kit is the most likely solution — no technician required.
✔ In most cases, replacing tine tips and touching up the coating restores normal rack function immediately.
📦 Part Details
- Part Number: 4396838RC
- Type: OEM Dishwasher Dishrack Repair Kit — includes replacement tine tips and vinyl touch-up paint with applicator brush
- Replaces: 4396838
- Brands: Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag
- Color: White
If your lower rack rollers or rack adjuster clips are also worn, replace them at the same time — you're already pulling the rack out. Combining repairs in one service saves time and avoids a second disassembly.
⚙️ Installation
Skill Level: EASY — 15–30 minutes. No tools required. Disconnect power before servicing as a precaution. Remove the affected rack from the dishwasher. Press new tine tips firmly onto exposed wire ends until seated. Apply vinyl touch-up paint to chipped areas with the included brush and allow to cure fully before running a wash cycle.
✓ Compatible Models
Confirmed compatible with a wide range of Whirlpool, KitchenAid, and Maytag dishwasher models with white interior racks. Contact us to verify your model number before ordering.
💡 Pro Tip
Once the vinyl coating cracks and bare metal is exposed, rust accelerates quickly — especially with hot water and detergent cycling through daily. Catching it early with this kit costs a fraction of a full rack replacement ($150–$250+). If more than 30% of your tines are affected, compare the cost of a full rack vs. this kit before deciding.
✓ Shop by Appliance Type
✅Compatibility & Cross Reference
Not sure about your model number? Call 1-877-899-7278 and we’ll help you confirm. All brand names are the property of their respective owners and are used for compatibility reference only.
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