I've had my Kenmore vacuum for over 30 years, and this is the 1st issue ever. Thanks so much for making a great video so I could fix it myself. I never want to be without this machine. I've tried numerous newer vacuum cleaners, and none worked as well or were made to last like this. Awesome video
Thank you soooo very much. Opened up the handle as you demonstrated & VOILA, the switch was off track. You saved me a lot of money cuz I thought I needed a new vacuum. Bless you for your help. Airhead Alice
I have a Kenmore vac model 116.31913100 upright. The direct drive gear has failed. I have the replacement gear but need help getting into the gear box.
Great video! You make it look so easy! How do I open model 116.23512300 to clean the switch? I don't know how to take off the front plate that holds it together instead of the sticker. I took out all the screws, but it doesn't come apart.
No, both mechanically and electrically it was not designed to run in reverse. This is what Wikipedia has regarding the AC motor Single-phase induction motor Single-phase motors do not have a unique rotating magnetic field like multi-phase motors. The field alternates (reverses polarity) between pole pairs and can be viewed as two fields rotating in opposite directions. They require a secondary magnetic field that causes the rotor to move in a specific direction. After starting, the alternating stator field is in relative rotation with the rotor. Several methods are commonly used: Shaded-pole motor A common single-phase motor is the shaded-pole motor and is used in devices requiring low starting torque, such as electric fans, small pumps, or small household appliances. In this motor, small single-turn copper "shading coils" create the moving magnetic field. Part of each pole is encircled by a copper coil or strap; the induced current in the strap opposes the change of flux through the coil. This causes a time lag in the flux passing through the shading coil, so that the maximum field intensity moves higher across the pole face on each cycle. This produces a low level rotating magnetic field which is large enough to turn both the rotor and its attached load. As the rotor picks up speed the torque builds up to its full level as the principal magnetic field is rotating relative to the rotating rotor.
Hi! I have a very similar model Kenmore vacuum cleaner, 116.26212690 that has a handle (was told it was the original handle) slightly different than the model you show. It has no screws with which to disassemble it,(it is more streamlined does not have the handle-grip as your model does - only the On/Off switch for beater bar motion) and I need help figuring out how to take it apart. The on/off switch on the powerwand (?) is dirty or has failed. I visited a vacuum repair business and they tested the lower half with a power cord attached directly to the powerwand and it worked fine. There are not the typical scorch marks on any of the electrical connections so this isn't the problem. I was unable to attach a photo of my handle, but hopefully you can explain (or provide a video) how to disassemble this so I can either clean/lubricate the on/off switch or replace it. Thanks, Mat
I would like to help, but I only had the model in the video. I would suggest looking under stickers or anything that will peal up for screws beneath. If you still do not find screws, try prying the handle apart at the seam with the widest flat headed screwdriver you have. Best of luck.
I have watched many times trying to figure the wiring on the switch. some fell off when putting back together. can you enlighten me. Sears was no help.
