Product review (5 stars): Improved Design - Easy Repair
This is the second time in eight years I've replaced this door balance kit on our Kitchenaid dishwasher.  If you hear a loud twang as you open the door and the door suddenly gets quite heavy, this is the part you need.

This latest kit is an improved design, as it replaces the top fixed cord guide with a second moving roller (you'll see what I mean when you compare the new and old parts).  The door now opens and closes significantly smoother and easier that it ever has, even when new.  And gone is the strange goose honk sound the door made as the strained cords drug across the fixed guides.  It's my realistic hope that the smoother action and reduced friction will improve durability beyond the 3-4 years we've seen thus far.  Only time will tell.......

The repair is an easy 30 minute job for the experienced DIYer; a bit more difficult for the novice, but definately doable.  Search the web, there are a number of HOW-TOs out there.  Usually only one side fails at a time, but the kit includes new parts for both sides.  Study the good side first to see how the cord is attached and routed, but replace both sides to avoid doing the job again in short order.