Kirby 4C Restoration Begun

[eurekastar]

I began the work of restoring my Kirby 4C last night. I sprayed out the trim and handle grip with a vinyl/plastic automotive paint. The color I chose is "Landau Black". I chose it because it has more of a satin finish. I wasn't sure if the original rubber trim would have had a high gloss finish on it. This paint has a low gloss. It needs to cure for a couple of days before I install it. I wanted to save the original handle grip, but unfortunately it fell apart. I think rubber just rots with age. But I think this will be a good substitute. (Sorry about the blurry photo.)

 

[eurekastar]

I have know way of knowing if this is the original fan. But I was surprised to discover that it only has six blades.

 

[eurekastar]

The motor brushes were at a point where they would soon need to be replaced. But I was kind of surprised that the commutator on the armature had no groove in it from wear.

 

[eurekastar]

I don't know a lot about how motors are engineered. But I find it interesting that the motor field and armature are larger than what's found on the newer 4 amp motors.

 

[kirbyvacuum]

Looks to be in good shape

Hi Bill cant wait to see finished product. I love the Red and Black bag on it. Good luck Doug

 

[eurekastar]

The castings are all washed and scrubbed and ready for the polishing. Surprisingly, there are no deep scratches and very few fine scratches in the nozzle casting. As soon as it cools down, I'll head out to the garage to begin that part of the project.

 

[eurekastar]

This is the oldest Kirby casting I've polished. I've not seen castings quite like this either. The aluminum has a different "character" to it since it was cast in sand. I think this photo highlights what I mean.