Product review (5 stars): This is the part you need if you are trying to fix your foot pedal operation of trash compactor
We have an older model Kitchenaid trash compactor. Model number KUCS03FTSS0. This is an under counter installed compactor.
It is probably 7-9 years old. It was the type where to compact you lift the foot pedal upwards.

One day we noticed that a small metal tab, approx 1.5-2 inch in length, broke off near the foot pedal. The compacting no longer started when we lifted the foot pedal up. I searched and searched online but could not find the little metal tab piece replacement. I came to realize that Whirlpool/Kitchenaid actually completely redesigned this part due to it breaking so frequently. So this part, W10342596, is actually the correct part you need even though it doesnt look like it at all.

The installation is a little involved, but I do not consider myself especially handy and I was able to do it by myself, in about 45 minutes taking my time. You do need to completely remove the unit from its installation location and partially disassemble it. It sounds daunting but it's really not. Here are some tips that should help:

1) Buy yourself a 1/4 inch nut driver if you don't already have one. This will be extremely useful in disassembling the unit. You'll need regular phillips screwdrivers too but for most of the parts you need this nut driver. I bought this set:&nbsp;<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/Dynamite-5-pc-Standard-Nut-Driver-Assortment/dp/B000BQJ5ZE/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">Dynamite 5 pc Standard Nut Driver Assortment</a>

2) The trash compactor actually has wheels on the back end, so its actually way easier to uninstall from its under countertop location than i thought.

3) Go to youtube and search "W10342596 install" . There is an instructional video on how to install this part. It is very thorough and goes through almost every step. Highly, highly recommended. I didn't even use the included paper instructions once i found this video.

Hope this helps!