How do you open the soap dispenser on a Kenmore Ultra Wash dishwasher?

SOURCE: Kenmore Ultra Wash Dishwasher wiring diagram

if unavailable on line, contact mfg's parts and you should be able to order it.
also, they likely do not make the unit. the sears may be able to tell you who made it. that company would be able to get you a diagram. just make some phone calls.

SOURCE: Dishwasher leaves soap in dispenser.

Hi Dirty Dish gang.
After having 2 appliance repairmen here, I now have the latest scoop on our dishwasher problems, $200 later!
Los Angeles IS currently having hard water issues. Also, all the new cleaning gels etc. are actually a cause of our dishwasher problems.  
So, here is what we need to do:
1. Use Cascade POWDER detergent only.  Make sure is is just "plain" no "scented" or "complete"  or gel, etc. (I have tried a phosphate free powder and gel and this is a cause of our problem as well!) 2. Use Jet Dry in the dispenser (set it to a 2-3 opening) 3. Make sure water is at least 120 degrees 4. Only run dishwasher on "normal" setting.  All others just run it longer, hence causing more water stains. 5. Do not pre-wash dishes! You can knock of chunks with a "non" soapy brush, but don't rinse (the oils actually help to clean the dishes) 6.  Do not wash sponges in dishwasher.
Acid Wash: The repairman just gave my washer an Acid Wash today. It says it is an acid derived from lemon, I got mine from Carters appliance in Torrance, CA for about $19. I am to run a normal cycle with the above mentioned Cascade after this "acid cycle" is finished.
If you are still having problems:
Monthly maintenance: Glass Magic: Buy a box of Glass Magic (near the Cascade)  Use 1 Tbsb in main detergent compartment of dishwasher along with the Cascade, till washer starts working again. White Vinegar: You can run an empty dishwasher with white vinegar once a month.  Fill a bowl with 2 cups vinegar and place on bottom rack.  Then run as a normal cycle...this allows vinegar to disperse slowly.
So far it seems to be working.  Good luck.

SOURCE: Soap dispensing problems on a kenmore dishwasher elite 577-0

is your soap door open when this happens if it is then make sure there's no water or other liquids in the dispenser from loading the washer one tablespoon of water in there will clump up the soap and it won't drop when it pops open

SOURCE: Kenmore Ultra Wash dishwasher

check and see if you are getting ac 110 volts to your water vave when trying to start the unit. if no power check your breakers and /or the incoming power to your dishwasher if they are ok and show 110 voltage coming to the unit then you probably have a control board or touchpad problem which would need a little more detailed check out.
If you do have ac 110 to your water valve then you may just have a bad water valve. Because the washer has to fill first. Hope that helps!!

SOURCE: Kenmore ultra wash dishwasher control lock light flashing

Just press the 'Air Dry' button for 5-6 seconds....I have an ancient Kenmore Dishwasher (ULTRA)