It is possible to have the pipe run to the a garage or basement utility area without too much effort. I would look at the MD units with the Stealth powerhead.
http://www.builtinvacuum.com
That is a very interesting thought. I guess I had never thought to put that togather, but it des make sense. I know singer never did make a tool kit for their uprights, you had to buy the hand vac.
I know for a fact that this is the motor they use, in fact, we took a current model Filter Queen apart to clean at the St. Louis meeting just this last weekend.