Hoover Helpmate found

[fan-of-fans]

I went to an estate sale today and they had several vacuums. A Kirby, a beige Kenmore Powermate canister with swivel hose like we had, a white Sears Craftsman Wet/Dry vac (no hose), and a gray Hoover Helpmate.

I decided to buy the Helpmate as I don't have any hand vacs anymore. It was $1 and it has the box and papers with it!

I haven't paid attention to vacs at estate sales, but I will now!

 

[lunchboxsean]

Oh, you better. I picked up a beautiful hovering Celebrity at an estate sale for $5 because no one else knew what it was.

 

[fan-of-fans]

I took the Hoover Helpmate apart to clean the inside and had a bit of a problem. There was a block of material on each side of the motor stator that was a dark gray color and look like foam. However, it was very hard and brittle and when I removed the motor, the material crumbled. I still have each piece, but they are much smaller than they were. What is this material and what is it for?

 

[classicfan1]

Sounds bad

Sounds like the insulation for the motor crumbled. I also have a Help-Mate from my step-dad's house. Mint with box, paperwork, and attachments. Mine is red, though. Its not exactly my cup of tea but they do look like handy little things. the filters are still sold on eBay.

 

[kirbyvertibles]

I would not worry about that foam crap, they always fall apart like that. No more than you would use it you should be fine. If you do replace it make sure its not to think so the motor can breath.

 

[fan-of-fans]

Okay, I'll leave it off then. I just wasn't sure if it had to do with the brushes or needed to be there. If I do replace the foam, do I need a certain type?

 

[kirbyvertibles]

I really don't think so just make sure it's not to think

 

[fan-of-fans]

Unfortunately I broke one of the carbon brushes when I was trying to put the motor back together. Will it work with a broken brush or will it spark. I broke quite a bit of the brush off, so it will probably need replacement soon. I don't know if I can get one or not.