Looks like this weekend I am buying the another vac like the blue one, only this one is rated at 12 amps and is red. I found it in LA on Craigslist for $30. Until a few weeks ago I had never saw that particular model, didn't know it existed and now I know of two different versions. I'm interested to see what motor is in the 12 amp version.
It is suction only like the blue one, which is surprising for Sears to sell, but I have the parts to convert it to use a Powermate and the conversion is simple to do. It's two parts, the wire with the plug for the powered hose and a different piece called a "strike" to mount the bag carrier on that has a notch for the plug to slot into. You drill one small hole for the wire to pass from the vacuum compartment to the motor compartment (the hole is already scribed into the plastic), install the strike and plug, and twist two wires. Very easy and very tempting. I can do it while it's apart for cleaning. It does not alter the external appearance one bit unless you have a very sharp eye for these vacs and notice the two prong plug down in the recess for the hose.
Stay tuned kids!