Kirby Generation 3 transmission issue

[charleskirby66]

Hello all!

I got a G3 on the 'bay for a friend's mom, who has always wanted a Kirby. It came in and has a very loose handle spring, which I have already ordered and will replace.

The PROBLEM is that, when using the current defective pivot handle spring assembly, the back wheels spin (do not make contact with the floor) and do not provide any "power assistance" going backward. Is his due to the defective pivot handle assembly? Should replacing the pivot handle spring assembly fix this problem, or do I have a separate problem to deal with?

Any help is greatly appreciated!

 

[bikerray]

If the back wheels are spinning and not making contact with the floor, you have other issues.

Is something sticking out under the vacuum to keep the rear wheels off the floor?
(such as a screw head)

Is there tread left on the wheels?

Are you doing this on carpeting or on a hardwood floor?

 

[sptyks]

Sounds like there's a problem with the rear wheels. The rubber tread may be worn down. BTW you should always test the Tech Drive on carpet not hard floor.

 

[charleskirby66]

Rear wheels spinning...

I tested on a very short pile carpet. The right rear wheel seems to make more contact than the left one (while driving the machine). Yes, the tread has worn on the wheels in spots. Do I need new wheels??? In any case, I'll check the unit for screws, etc when I get back home.

I've never replaced rear wheels. Oy, I hope it's not as big a pain as it seems!

 

[sptyks]

A brand new set of wheels with hub caps cost about $10.


They're easy to replace if you have a pair of spring clip pliers. If not, it can still be done but a little bit more tricky.

 

[chicagomike]

Make sure the rear axle bushing/assembly gets put together properly as well if you take it apart (or maybe someone else took it apart in the past too and put it back together wrong), as the bushing (4 sided plastic part) go back together/face in one direction.

And you can always buy eBay item number: 111663852217 too as it is a restored G3

 

[charleskirby66]

Ok, now for the Belt Lifter

So far, I think replacing the handle spring pivot assembly will take care of the transmission issue, sonce the weight of the handle was putting the transmission into over drive. We'll see when I get it back together.

Now… I took the Belt Lifter off the power nozzle to do some sanding. I quickly realized I don't know how to fit the pieces back together.

LOL Yeah, dumbass here.