Kirby 516 - a weighty matter

[pronker]

I've owned this vacuum since moving into my Gran's old home and it's simply too heavy for me to use anymore. I'd like to sell it and save the funds towards a lighter model. It's been refurbished twice and no longer has the original box, hose, tools, or bag saying 'Kirby'. It does have the original manual. It's quite heavy, probably 20 pounds, so shipping it seems iffy. ebay seems the best way to go, anyone have suggestions? Have a nice day, pronker

 

[charleskirby66]

Bad news regarding a lighter model

I hate to break the news to ya, but these first generation Kirbys are the lightest models that the company ever produced, at around 14 lbs.  Each successive generation got heavier.  The current model, the Avalir, and its third generation counterparts (Generation 3 through Sentria II), are each over 20 lbs.  The Tech Drive feature makes the unit easier to push and pull on carpet, but the unit itself is substantially heavier.

 

[human]

Yes, newer Kirby machines are heavy beasts (the 'Hummer' of vacuum cleaners IMO) but the Tech Drive is well worth the price. You can push and pull them with two fingers. They're great unless you're trying to vacuum steps with them. It's not an issue for me anymore since I live in a ranch style house, but when I had a two-story townhouse, I kept the my Kirby Gsix downstairs and my Electrolux 1205 upstairs and used the Electrolux on the steps. Those two machines make a dynamite combination. If I were to pare my fleet down to the absolute bare bones, it would be those two machines and perhaps one of my Royal Prince 501 hand vacs, although the Electrolux's 'Sidekick' attachment would likely make the 501 superfluous.

 

[pronker]

Okay - a change is in order, I see.

Thanks for the swift replies - to Charles Kirby 66 and human - ah me, it seems I'll need to leave Kirby for another brand. I really need a vacuum that's lighter. It'll be tough to part with the old girl!

 

[pronker]

Kirby 516 now on ebay

Added my Kirby to sell on ebay under the name 'pronkerpronker' so let's see what happens.

 

[pronker]

Found a lighter vacuum today.

It's a Bissell Compact, a true find in a thrift store with all the attachments and original box, for $10.00. I'm sad to part with the 1956 Kirby and wish the best to anyone who desires it for a collection or for heavy use. She's been almost a friend for over 30 years.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/162188427312?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1558.l2649