GE Dishwasher Rack Wheel Axle Replacement (WD35X21041)

myminifactory

This is a replacement GE dishwasher lower rack wheel axle, patterned after the manufacture's new style of OEM part, but reinforced and enhanced for a better fit and for a stronger 3D print. Works on front or rear wheels. If you want to purchase this part commercially, it is not sold separately; you are required to buy a full set of 8 wheels and axles, costing $10-to-$25 (GE Dishwasher Rack Wheel Axle Replacement, part #WD35X21041). Weighing in at 4 grams, this design is an inexpensive (~$0.10) and quick way to get a replacement axle -- it prints in less than an hour. The manufacturer's original design that is used in my dishwasher is not very sturdy. Consequently, it fails, thus explaining why replacements are sold at many internet retailers. For a stronger print that better utilizes the layers and filament flow, I recommend printing this design upright, which will require some supports. After printing, I cleaned up the support material and lightly sanded the shaft that goes through the wheel so that it is smooth. NOTE: I don't know how the PETG will react to the water, detergent, enzymes and heat found in a dishwasher. I will update this description after washing a few batches. UPDATE - 30 DEC 2020: after 50-to-60 wash cycles, the PETG axles are holding up fine with no noticeable deterioration. Why I Designed This:     Two of the lower rack wheel axles broke in my dishwasher. Rather than buying a full set of replacements for a machine that is on its last leg, I decided to design a replacement. Afetr 3 revisions, I think I have a working design.