Kenmore HE3: error code 02 (clogged drain), checked drain lines, pump, cleaned trap. When loaded, will not drain completely or spin. When empty, it will drain and spin. Ran diagnostic cycle: after completion, SUDS came up on screen.

Hi.

When the drain system is OK the problem is usually the pressure switch. Moreover the SUDS error points in direction of the switch. Detergent in excess may clog the pressure hose connected to the switch. The pressure sensor integrated with the switch will not work properly and you get the drain problem.

The pressure switch detects the water level and among other things determines when to start/stop the drain pump. The pressure switch looks like a plastic disk with 4 contacts (3 depending on model). The switch is connected to a long rubber hose that goes inside the tub. The part is located in the control panel.
The first maintenance consists in cleaning the hose attached to the switch that can be clogged with suds (detergent).
If that does not work and the drain system is OK, the switch is usually replaced, as the part is difficult to test. The switch can be tested reading impedance across its contacts with tub empty and full. The switch must close two of the 4 contacts depending on what condition is met. Test must be done with power off.

Before replacing the switch make sure that the drain hose height and settings are correct or the problem will be siphoning rather than a defective pressure switch. Clean the switch hose before replacing the part.

If the pressure switch and drain lines are OK the parts that may be responsible are the electronic control board or the drain pump itself.

Since there was a SUDS code the problem is likely the switch.

Here a service manual for Duet, which is the Whirlpool model corresponding to Kenmore HE3 (Whirlpool built your He3, Kenmore only put the name on it).

Here location (thanks Samurai for the pic):



Regards.

Ginko