Lately, my Kirby Ultimate G has been acting funny. When I push it forward, it's fine, but when I pull it backward on the carpet, the light on the front flickers and the power flutters off an on. I thought it might be the rollers, so tonight I turned the machine over and pulled out the hair that was wrapped around the roller. However, that did not fix the problem. I should probably backtrack a little bit. In the past, I have had problems with the vacuum running over its own power cord. The hook that holds it to the machine broke off a while ago, so it has been getting caught under the machine. At one point, part of the cord covering ripped off, exposing some rope and electrical cording. I intended to purchase some electrical tape to cover this, but kept forgetting. Tonight, while vacuuming, the power flickered off and on again. Then, suddenly, there was a poof of black smoke down near the bottom of the boot. There is also a small, black, hole in the power cord near the base, and some of the wires inside have split in two entirely. I'm no expert, but I'm assuming the problem here is the electrical cord. Is this something I can easily fix myself? If so, what type of tool do I need to get the screw off of the electrical cord cover? Thanks! Stacy
Vacuums - Kirby - Ultimate G Bagged Upright Vacuum
Answers & Comments
The cord will need to be replaced with a cord made for the machine, as it has a non-standard plug. The cord cover is held in place with a # 20 Torx screw. Remove the screw and push the cover gently from behind to unlatch it. The handle must also be removed, along with the switch "scuff" plate. To remove the rear plastic trim plate, remove the screw at the bottom rear, and the upper screw holding the cord to the motor shell. The upper screw is a # 15 Torx screw. To remove the trim piece, insert a flat screwdiver into the rectangular slot in it and pry it upward. Reverse this proceedure to install the new cord.
Ok, I unscrewed the cord cover, but I cannot get it to budge. Is there a trick to it? It seems to be pretty well anchored in. Also, I'm not sure what you mean by the "switch 'scuff' plate". Does it have anything to do with why I am unable to remove the cord cover, or is it something I will see once I am able to get the cover off?
Please advise--right now I have several parts of my Kirby unscrewed, in an effort to remove the cord cover!
Thanks again!
I did finally manage to get the cover off and to replace the cord. Unfortunately, that didn't fix the problem. It seems now that the power button won't catch whatever it is supposed to "catch" to turn on, so the machine won't turn on. I'm wondering if it has anything to do with me having unscrewed the wheel area, while trying to get the power cord cover off. It looks like I will have to end up taking it to a repair shop after all. Thank you for your help, though.