Great debate: Lux metal vs. plastic-bodied models as users?

[Mechanized]

Hey everyone, new guy here. When I was a teenager I collected a whole bunch of Electroluxes, but that's in the past and I'm trying to lighten my load. Already got rid of the classic ones--think I had an XXX, LX (miss the bag vomit action,) E, and G. Now I'm moving on to the newer ones.

So, question time. As far as day-to-day use around the home, do you prefer metal-bodied or plastic-bodies Luxes? I currently have two Super-Js, a Silverado, a 2100, a Regency 1500 (newer 2100,) an Ambassador, and an Epic 6000.

I'm probably going to keep the plastics since they're lighter, seem a bit more powerful, and share parts with current models. Don't like the flimsy cord reels or front casters, although I've used the Regency weekly for the last ten years and only had to clean the rewind spring once.

Opinions? Any great reason I should keep the metal ones instead, other than ease of maintenance? I really do like them, but I can't keep more than a couple vacuums from now on and I'd prefer them to be interchangeable.

Thanks

 

[blackheart]

I prefer metal

I had an LE and compared side to side with some of my metal body machines like the silverado. As long as they were using the L shaped heads they seemed to clean equally, sure the LE was a little lighter but it was also louder. For some reason i just didn't care for the newer style machine end connector. I know when i use it it doesn't really matter but i just like the feeling of using a sturdy, durable machine.

 

[sireluxomatic]

<span style="font-family: georgia,palatino; font-size: medium;">Good question. I have old and new models in my collection, and rotate them all for cleaning duty. Emotionally, I'm connected to the older metal-bodied machines, because I grew up with them, but I do like using the newer ones as well (as an arthritis sufferer, the plastic machines are sometimes easier to use).  The new ones clearly are somewhat more powerful, but if you connect an airtight vinyl hose and L-shaped power nozzle to the older ones, they can do an excellent job as well. In short, its hard to choose one over the other. </span>


 


<span style="font-family: georgia,palatino; font-size: medium;">Maybe in your case, since you mentioned you don't want to keep a lot of vacuums, you might be better off with a couple of the new ones, and then the hoses, attachments, etc, will be interchangeable. I know a lot of people don't like plastic machines, but I can't quite go along with that...plastic machines have been around now since 1973, and some of them are still going strong.</span>


 


<span style="font-family: georgia,palatino; font-size: medium;">Either way, you'll be using an Electrolux, and it doesn't get better than that

</span>

 

[suckolux]

I would bet us older guys are going to like the older metal machines? I LOVE my Silverado, it will be mounted on the wall when it or I can no longer function. Ok, maybe not that bad, but there are days due to it's weight that I have to go Dyson. Sorry guys, I have to be able to move next day. Great post here! Congrats.

 

[thevacuumman]

Personally i like the metal machines especially my model L i use it in my weekly rotations alot but i use the PN-5 from my 2100 on it i would use my 2100 but i need a new hose

 

[codyf]

Metal for me too! my daily driver has been my Model G for about 6 months! lol! i love it! It's just so quiet!

 

[super-sweeper]

metal for me,i use my G like crazy!so quiet and powerful!

 

[hamiltonbeachbo]

Don't own a plastic machine .... I'm somewhat allergic to plastic so I shy away from them.


I have a model XXX, Super J and Ultralux, all in pristine condition.


The Super J is my favorite lux machine .... the one I grab when a job calls for super suction.


I think it was one of the best in that series of luxs.


I definitely prefer the metal machines.


psf

 

[henry200]

I much prefer my vintage vacuums.  For that matter I'll take vintage over modern for just about anything in and around the house, except maybe for central heat and ac!  Although, nothing warms me up on a cold winter night like a fire in the woodburning stove. 


 


I own a Lux 2100 but have used it all of maybe 5 minutes in the last 5 years.  My older Electrolux vacuums serve my needs perfectly, right along with my older Kirbys, Hoovers, etc.  The only "modern" vacuum I really enjoy using frequently is my Henry, who is far too powerful for his own good (animals and small children beware!) and he's just too cute for words.

 

[floor-a-matic]

Metal vs. Plastic

I've had at least ONE 1205 thruout my life; but now I have 2 & am Ambassador, & I have to say metal ones are better.

btw, I'd like to have a XXX or a G.

 

[Mechanized]

Thanks for the input. I think I'm still going to go with the plastic ones, but I like hearing opinions.

Anyone have a rundown of the motors used in the plastic models? I've found two styles, the most easily noticeable difference being the older ones use a separate guard over the motor.

 

[thevacuumman]

at least keep 1 of the metal luxes

 

[richardlxixxx]

13593

Greetings from another Electrolux afficiando.

I prefer the metal body Electrolux vacuums. In my opinion, the Olympia was the best vacuum Electrolux ever produced. Powerful, dependable, and easy to use. It is the vacuum I use on a daily basis. It is in superb condition and will run circles around the new plastic body machines. While the newer machines are technologically superior and more powerful, they just do not have the panache of a beautiful metal body Electrolux.

Also have a minor collection of vintage Electrolux vacuums. I am seeking a mint condition Model G and also an Automatic F.

By the way, there should be a classified section of the Club. Some sort of venue where collectors can go for hard to find parts, etc.

A great day to all,

Richard