Kirby fan change question...

[matt8808]

As some of you may remember I recently had to install a new power switch on my Sentria II.

While I had the machine in bits I also changed the fan as the old one had some slight damage.

All genuine parts... full fan kit with the new belt shaft and little washers and seals ect.

My question is this....

When I've fitted the new fan I've clamped the rear of the motor shaft at the back of the motor with a small spanner, slotted a large nail through the hole on the belt shaft and tightened the new fan on as tight as it will go by hand.

Is this correct?

I've not used the machine since as it is still in my bad books and I'm content with my Miele C3 Cat Dog... but I just wanted to be sure I haven't done anything wrong for when I do decide to take the Kirby for a spin again.

Reason I ask is that I'm sure I once read somewhere online to only tighten it finger tight.... something to do with it being tight causing damage??


Oh and James if you're reading this.... I'd of asked you about this but I no longer have Facebook and have managed to loose your email address!

 

[sptyks]

Matt

I do not believe you did any damage to your Sentria II except that it could be somewhat difficult to remove the fan during a future fan replacement.


 


Generally finger tight is more than adequate because the motor runs clockwise and the fan shaft screws on counterclockwise. Every time you start the motor, the friction of the belt causes the fan shaft to tighten automatically. This assures that the fan will not be difficult to remove in the future.


 


 

 

[matt8808]

Thanks. I was concerned that the fan being on hand tight would cause extra stress on the bearings or something

 

[kirbykleankarpet]

Just a 'bit' past finger-tight is usually all you need, as sptyks said, the reverse-threaded shaft will tighten automatically when the machine is powered on from friction. As stated, having it very tight will not necessarily harm it, but speaking from experience, it can certainly make future removal a pain. Happy vacuuming!

~Tim

 

[craig_1982]

I have done it exactly the same way Mat many times and I've had no problems what so ever, If you ever need to replace it again in the future, any decent pair of mole grips should loosen of the belt shaft if your bending the nail.

 

[matt8808]

I got the Kirby out tonight. Opened it up, loosened the fan off (it wasn't on as tight as I thought) and then retightened it finger tight and then a little extra pinch for good measure. I'm now happy that I've not over tightened.

Also gave the machine a wipe down and a bit of a polish and may start using it again alongside my Miele C3 as the bitter experience from the power switch saga has worn off.

I've had it just over 3 years now... longest I've ever kept a vacuum lol

I bought it brand new so don't ever intend to part with this one due to the money I'd loose