Help..... Kenmore Canister Problem

[lovecanisters]

I will be so sad if the motor went on my Kenmore Canister.  It's a 1980's Sears Best Powermate Canister...


 


Problem...when I turn the canister on, only the powermate goes on, not the canister...this has never happened...Has anyone experienced this problem?  If so, what is it?  I'm thinking the motor couldn't have gone because power is being supplied to the Powermate.  I had posted about a slight delay in the PowerMate motor when I turned it on, but someone suggested a new belt was needed, hence the reason for breaking out the Kenmore today....Anyways...I kept trying the canister and it finally went on, but when I powered it off and turned it back on...just the Powermate came on, no canister motor/suction...


 


Help...


 


Thank you.

 

[whirlsonicmore]

A pic of the machine would be a good reference. I'm thinking it's one of the older "suitcase style" machines. The oval "Sears Best" sticker was usually found on the front of the bag lid, near the carry handle.

If it has the rare variable speed (with rotary dial), there could be an electronic problem.
If it's a standard on/off or a 2 speed (hi/lo) unit, I would look for a worn down carbon brush.

 

[lovecanisters]

It's a 2-speed suitcase/box style....see pic...If it is a carbon brush, are parts still around and can I replace myself?  Thanks.

 

[kirbylux77]

Brian, the carbon brushes are still around, as the motor is a common Ametek double-stage motor that is still made to this day, & the same motors were used in Tri-Star & Filter Queen. It might be a good idea if you're handy though to take the brush out of the motor & bring it with you when you go to get the new brushes.

However, before you do that, I would check the wiring first....something tells me the more likely cause of your problem is a loose wire.

Hope this helps you out....Rob.