Kirby handle question

[oldskoolguy]

So I’ve got an old dual sanitronic 80 that I picked up almost a year ago (how time flies) from OfferUp, and it’s gone from bojack to more correct (thanks to a 561 at goodwill with a dual 80 cord that I picked up and Kirbyguru on eBay who sold me a dual 80 switch button) but the one thing that interests me is the top handle piece. Every top handle part sold separately I’ve seen for the straight handles has a swivel cord hook, but this particular handle top does not have that. This has me wondering: what models originally had this handle top? 505?

Side note: while the handle itself is incorrect for the dual 80, it does give it a little more resemblance to Kirby from the Brave Little Toaster! Just put some black wheels on it, a black cord, a black handle grip, replace the bag top with a slide clamp, maybe remove the trim (or swap it with gray), and remove the belt lifter insert, and it’s pretty much a (near) perfect model of Kirby!

 

[hoover300]

I'll bet that was tossed together from a Kirby parts bin at a vac shop. The grip is off a 505-513 due to the hook and the smaller handle on the end of the grip itself.

 

[KirbyCollector01]

D80 Handle

I have a spare original D80 handle assembly. If you’re interested.

 

[lesinutah]

Two

The swivel cord hook debuted in 516 model. I'm guessing that is what you are referring to.
The d50 was the last pistol grip handle.
The cord swivel hook was 2 of the pic attached.
Les

 

[oldskoolguy]

Hoover 300, you’re most likely right! How I found it was with a red button, the current handle, and. A red cord. The date etched in on the bottom of the fan case is 9-13-78. With the initials “KH”. I’m guessing that’s the service date. Kirbycollector, although I appreciate the offer, I think I’m okay for now. I’m primarily focused on restoring it. And les, thanks for the insight!

 

[kirbyclassiciii]

LesinUtah

Les,

The swiveling top cord hook actually debuted during 513 production, which also coincided with the new 4 amp motor. At the same time the color of the handle grip plastic changed from gray to red.

~Ben

 

[lesinutah]

Ben

Nice catch. I went through manuals and that's where it was first mentioned as a feature. I don't have my Kirby diagrams easily available.
Thanks
Les