Filterqueen Optima

[vermontgirl]

I grew up with the old brown Filter Queen and have fond memories. I now own 2 Oreck Vacuum and though they do the the job the are LOUD and go through belts like crazy. I just picked up a Filter Queen Optima at a 2nd hand shop and was all jazzed to use it until I was informed it was going to cost me an additional 250 bucks to get it upgraded. The Machine is in MINT but is basically useless as is. Any suggestions or do I send it to the junk yard?

 

[vermontgirl]

Optima Filterqueen

Here is another shot of the machine put together.

 

[bagintheback]

What do you need upgraded/replaced for $250? Something is seriously wrong with it or your vacuum shop is way over-priced. Don't throw it out. Some collector here might want it for parts or restoration.

 

[brandon_w_t]

Wow. I have never seen this model! Looks quite nice!


What is wrong with it?

 

[midcenturymike]

I have rairly worked on a FQ this new, but

Isn't there supposed to be a cone shaped grill over top of that motor/secondary filter? I shouldn't think this would cost $250! Perhaps someone is trying to rip you off. Be careful of vac shop "advice". It certainly looks better than junk yard material!

 

[brandon_w_t]

Op wow. Yea it's missing the plastic cage. Maybe someone ran it without cones and ruined the motor.

 

[henry200]

It looks to me like it was used without the cone-shaped support and primary filter cone.   The motor will need to be disassembled and cleaned.  Why someone would remove the cone is beyond me.  The disk filter at the base of the motor is supposed to be a stop-gap to protect the motor in case the main filter develops a small leak, but can't be expected to handle a full onslaught of dust and dirt. 


 


I'm not familiar with this model (yours is the first I've ever seen) but it also looks like there a missing "elbow" piece at the top of the power nozzle wand before connecting the hose. 


 


Buying genuine Filter Queen parts from an authorized FQ dealer is a very expensive proposition.   Some parts can be found for less online.  The most important issue is taking apart the motor to get cleaned out and assess any damage from being run cone-less.


 

 

[kenkart]

NO Guys!

The Optima is a rare machine, Health Mor introduced it as a cheaper machine, it does NOT use a cone, it uses a BAG!! which now is next to impossible to get, they had much trouble with dust leakage where the bag attached, it is set up very much like a Lewyt 55 or 66, KEEP THIS!! it is rare!

 

[hydralique]

Interesting . . .

How did the Optima relate to the Princess line? I thought that was Filter Queen's "economy" vacuum.