Kirby G4 metal fan conversion

[kloveland]

Recently I purchased a Kirby G4 at a local flea market that was in nasty condition. After I got it cleaned up it runs great. However I would like to put a metal fan in it. I have a metal fan from a Kirby Classic that I have been saving. When I removed the plastic fan I noticed that the metal fan is not compatible with the bearing seal of the plastic fan. There is a large gap between the metal fan and the housing with the seal in place. Can the bearing seal be adapted to make it work with the metal fan?

When and if I get the metal fan installed is there anything I should worry about. I know that motor will run a little slower because of the weight/increased air flow. I just don’t want my motor to fail prematurely.

 

[kloveland]

I have decided to leave the Kirby the way it is. I prefer to have something all original. As my grandfather used to say “if it’s not broke don’t fix it”. The next thing I will probably get is the variable/speed control hose end that I have seen on ebay. From this forum I have read that the attachments are not supposed to be in use for long periods of time. Is this true for the generation series? If so using the lower speed for the rug nozzle with the attachments will help to prevent premature failure of the armature/carbon brushes.

 

[vinvac]

Kenny,

I have never seen the variable/speed control hose control that you speak of. Personally, I don't think you need to worry about your machine running at the higher speed. I use all of my Kirby's equally as much with tools as I do with the rug nozzel....and never had a problem.

The Kirby Company is a quality company and have designed the machine to be used in both speeds. Remember they offer some of the best warranties in the business....they would not back the product that well if they did not believe in it themselves.

This has been a topic of conversation for a very long time with our club members. Some vac shop owners will tell it does make a difference, but for average use, you will never have a problem.

Morgan