How can I replace a Kirby Omega On/Off Switch?

[hoover706]

I was trying to put my Kirby Omega back together yesterday after a good cleaning and when I tried to screw the power switch in, the tab that holds it on broke. I noticed that there was no way to disconnect the wires because the switch is riveted together. I came up with the idea to use wire connectors but then where would I get a new switch? Can anyone give me advice on what to do?

 

[rugsucker]

"--disconnect the wires--"

On a typical Kirby switch of this era you can insert a pin(unfolded paper clip,small nail,etc)in hole beside wire and it will release.Then with new switch push wires to lock in place.

 

[human]

If it's like the switch for a Heritage/Legend machine, you release the wires by poking a punch or small screwdriver into a hole opposite each wire. To install the wires on the replacement switch, just poke them into the hole until they are firmly in place.

From the looks of that tab, you might be able to super glue it back together. The one on my Heritage 84 broke into several pieces at that very same spot and I had to replace it with one off of a Heritage II. If you need to replace yours, a switch for a Classic, Classic Omega, Classic III or Tradition should fit yours, although the color of the foot pedal might be different. Plastics on the Classic and Classic Omega are different shades of brown. Those on the Classic III are red and on the Tradition they are blue but they are otherwise compatible.

 

[hoover706]

Thanks for the help!

I'm glad that there is an easier way to take the wires out than I had thought. I will go and get a switch from the Henry Co tomorrow. Since I am a friend of the owner of the store, he will likely let me take a switch from one of the Kirbys in the window. Many of the Kirbys in the window are either in poor condition or run horribly, some are both. I also forgot to mention that when I was looking at the switch a bit closer, a spring and a brass pin came out. I know where the spring goes but I don't know where the brass pin goes.

 

[kirbyclassiciii]

Hoover706

Christian,

A replacement foot switch for your Omega 1CB, if you ever need it, will be part no. 110578, with the black foot switch button.

~Ben

 

[texaskirbyguy]

A switch from a Classic (1CR - the lighter brown one) will NOT work for the Omega. The 1CR electrical switch is actually the same as on a D50/D80. The foot pedal just hits the plunger of the switch.
The Classic 1CR was the only Kirby model to use this setup.

One note, use minimal pressure on the tool and do not use something too big in diameter to avoid bending the internal tabs, making them not hold the wires. If this happens, coating the wire with some solder can help.
I found that sharp nails work the best.