FAQ
TL;DR: Rusty Amica ZZA6428 racks? Replacements cost ~PLN 400; "Withstands high temperatures up to 100 °C." This FAQ explains safe fixes for basket rust and tip patches for owners of this model. [Elektroda, gaijina, post #17426787]
Why it matters: You’ll stop rust transfer to dishes and delay costly rack replacements.
Quick Facts
- Replacement/substitute baskets run about PLN 400 for this model, per user report. [Elektroda, gaijina, post #17426787]
- One‑component appliance sprays suit exteriors; inside a dishwasher they don’t last. Consider 2‑component epoxy or powder coating. [Elektroda, lamer89, post #17426952]
- Heat‑shrink tubing fix works on tips; 4.8/2.4 mm sleeves and crimped ends were reported successful. [Elektroda, gaijina, post #17447990]
- Overloading or bending rods cracks enamel; exposed steel then corrodes on the tips. [Elektroda, mrice, post #17427639]
- Two‑part glues like Distal can fail under heat and contaminate the interior; avoid such fixes. [Elektroda, Borutka, post #17427440]
What’s the quickest way to stop dishwasher rack rust on an Amica ZZA6428?
For localized tip rust, clean the spots and sleeve them with heat‑shrink tubing. A user reported success using white 4.8/2.4 mm sleeves, then crimped the softened ends with pliers. Clean heavy rust so the sleeve slides on. This is a fast, reversible patch that prevents further chipping and protects dishes from rust. Monitor periodically for wear or new rust points. “I think it worked out quite well.” [Elektroda, gaijina, post #17447990]
Can I use RAL 9016 appliance spray inside the dishwasher?
No. It’s meant for appliance exteriors. “Under the conditions in the dishwasher, rather no one‑component paint can withstand.” Heat, water, and detergents degrade single‑component acrylics fast. If you want a coating, use a two‑component epoxy primer, or ask a powder‑coating shop about recoating racks. These survive the wet, hot, alkaline environment much better than aerosol touch‑ups. [Elektroda, lamer89, post #17426952]
Will heat‑shrink sleeves soften or smell during drying?
There’s a cautionary report. One contributor warned that sleeves can soften during drying, stick to dishes, and smell of plastic. “The dishes stuck to the heat‑shrink tubing and the stench of plastic... is rather not pleasant.” If you try sleeves, keep them short on tips, and verify they’re stable in your machine’s hottest cycle before full use. [Elektroda, lamer89, post #17436847]
How do I seal the ends of heat‑shrink tubing on rack tips?
Heat the sleeve until it softens during shrinking. Then pinch the end with pliers to close and seal it. This prevents water ingress and reduces snagging. A lighter or heat gun provides controlled heat; avoid scorching plastic parts nearby. The key is to press while the sleeve is soft so it bonds shut. [Elektroda, teskot, post #17428960]
What size heat‑shrink fits the rack tips on this model?
A successful user fix used 4.8/2.4 mm heat‑shrink sleeves on the rusting tips. They cleaned heavy rust to allow the sleeve to slide on, shrank it, and crimped the end with pliers. Color choice is cosmetic; white blends with the rack. Inspect for other spots you can’t sleeve and monitor them. [Elektroda, gaijina, post #17447990]
Is two‑component epoxy or powder coating worth it for racks?
Yes. Two‑component epoxy primers and professional powder coating handle heat, water, and detergents far better than one‑component sprays. Ask a local powder‑coating shop about blasting and recoating baskets, or use a 2K epoxy system if recoating yourself. These options deliver harder, more chemical‑resistant films. [Elektroda, lamer89, post #17426952]
What causes rack rust on Amica ZZA6428 baskets?
Overloading and bending rods stresses and cracks the enamel. Once steel is exposed, corrosion starts at tips and spreads. Avoid stuffing heavy items that pry against tines. Check for bent rods and correct them gently to reduce new enamel breaks. [Elektroda, mrice, post #17427639]
Is two‑part glue like Distal a good repair for tips?
No. A user tested Distal and it failed under heat, leaving a mess. “Distal can’t stand it... made a mess.” Adhesives risk flaking into the tub and contaminating dishes. Avoid glues inside the dishwasher cavity. Choose sleeves or professional recoating instead. [Elektroda, Borutka, post #17427440]
How much do replacement or substitute racks cost?
Approx. PLN 400 for substitute baskets, per user report. Prices vary by availability and condition, but budgeting around that figure helps decide between patching and replacing. Check local listings and parts vendors for current offers. [Elektroda, gaijina, post #17426787]
Should I consider buying used dishwasher racks?
Yes. Look for used bins in good condition if your rack is too far gone. Inspect enamel integrity and straightness of tines before buying. This can be more economical than new substitutes if the enamel remains intact. [Elektroda, mrice, post #17427639]
How do I apply heat‑shrink tubing to rusty rack tips (3 steps)?
- Clean the tip. Scrape loose rust so the sleeve slides on.
- Fit the sleeve. Position it over the damaged area.
- Shrink and seal. Heat to shrink, then crimp the softened end with pliers to close it. [Elektroda, gaijina, post #17447990]
Does uneven, pitted enamel affect paint adhesion on racks?
Yes. Inside-dishwasher conditions—heat, water, detergents—quickly undermine one‑component acrylics, especially on uneven, pitted enamel. If you must repaint, switch to a two‑component epoxy primer or pursue powder coating. These options cope better with the rack’s shape and environment. [Elektroda, lamer89, post #17426952]
What coverage will a 400 ml RAL 9016 can deliver?
Approx. 1.5–2 m² per application, depending on the substrate. Typical handling times: non‑stick in 15–20 minutes and full cure in 16–20 hours. Note: These specs refer to appliance exterior use, not dishwasher interiors. [Elektroda, gaijina, post #17426787]