Best practices for replacing Kirby rug nozzle gasket?

[sopranojam85]

Hello all!

What are the best practices when removing an old rug nozzle gasket, and replacing it? In terms of:
-- The best way to remove the old rubber and adhesive
-- The best kind of adhesive to use
-- Tips on alignment, dry time, etc?

My Kirby Classic Omega (seen in this thread http://www.vacuumland.org/cgi-bin/TD/TD-VIEWTHREAD.cgi?15209 ) is in need of one. The factory rebuild kind of botched that one aspect of the job and the gasket has shifted, resulting in significant rattling when in use. It's been over 2 years since the rebuild so I can't turn around and ask them to correct it anymore, and the gaskets are only a few bucks, so I figured I'd do it myself. Tips are appreciated.

Thank you!

 

[sopranojam85]

Just to be clear, the gasket I'm talking about is the one on the rug plate, that holds the brush roller. I realize there's multiple gaskets in this thing. Thanks.

 

[eurekastar]

First, just remove the rug plate by prying back the hinges with a screw driver.  You may need to use some needle nose pliers too.  Second, scrape as much of the gasket off with a screwdriver.  Third, soak the area with acetone and let it sit for a short time.  Finally, continue removing the all the old gasket material and adhesive.  You may need to do different things at this point, including using a screwdriver, steel wool, and an old cloth. 


 


Once the old gasket and adhesive are removed, installing the new gasket is pretty simple.  Most new gaskets already come with adhesive.  Just pull the backing off, press and stick.  However, some gaskets have no adhesive.  In that case, I've used 3M Emblem Adhesive.  You can probably use auto weatherstripping adhesive too.  You might want to squirt some out and then use a Q-Tip to apply it to the rug plate.  With both of those adhesives, it's always best to let it set for a short while until it is "tacky".  Then install the gasket.  Using a Q-Tip allows you to control how much is used.  It doesn't require much. 


 


Once the gasket is on, reinstall the rug plate on the nozzle.  Latch it onto the nozzle and let it set for an hour or so to let it finish drying. 


 


Hope this helps!