Have one more screw to remove on a Classic-style Kirby fancase and the head is stripped? Try this

[superocd]

Was disassembling newly-acquired Classic III for cleaning, sanitizing and rebuilding. Stripped one of the three screws on the discharge side of the fancase. I had two options...try to find my screw extractor set, or this:

Since all the other screws were removed, the halves of the fan case pivoted around this screw. I took one hand and gripped the inlet while gripping the outlet with the other hand, gently rocking the halves, and then applying slight pressure by GENTLY prying on the halves of the fancase. I was then able to remove the stripped Phillips head with a flathead screw driver. I tossed that screw and went on with my business.

Your mileage may vary, this may or may not work for you. The key is patience and being gentle. If you use brute force, I could see where one or both sides of the fancase snaps from the screw area and then you would need a new fancase/motor shell.

 

[huskyvacs]

Old timer trick is to hammer the screwdriver with a mallet once you set the bit in the screw, and the impact will break loose any rust sticking the screw down.

Another alternative is a cordless screwdriver with a high torque (NOT a power drill)

Also a ratcheting screwdriver with a large rubber handle, the bigger the handle the more torque you can exert.

 

[kirbyklekter]

Late to this

Don't forget to add a few drops of penetrating oil to the problem area. Tap the screw after applying to help oil work it's way in. Could take anywhere from a few minutes to overnight soak,but will make any of the methods above go much easier!