My first curb find: Hoover Constellation 858

[atrac]

I have one of the new Hoover Constellation models. Love it (although I don't have anything but the hose for it). A few months ago I found some Type J bags for a "Hoover Constellation" at a Thrift Store. I bought them for the 75 cent price. They of course did not work with my new Constellation...so I just tossed them into the corner.

Cut to: TONIGHT! I was pulling into my parking garage and noticed out of the corner of my eye: A beautiful Constellation 858 in "pumpkin" sitting on the curb. Dented and dirty, it is now cleaned (but still dented) sitting here in my apartment. It works! It's missing the hose (ugh), no filters of any kind -- but those bags I bought had the Thrift Store a few months ago now have a purpose!

I'd like to put this to use. A hose would be nice, as would filters. It is fairly clean (now). Anything I should know? Good source for a hose and dare I ask...attachments??

My first curb find!

 

[atrac]

A few questions about this model:

1) Is there supposed to be a metal clip that holds the bag in place? This one has a clip that I'm not sure which side of the cardboard it is supposed to go on (top or bottom).

2) There is a metal ring inside that was laying loose. It has two loops to it. Is that for holding down a filter?

3) Is there any easy way to open it up to clean out the inside where the motor is? I was considering just using another vac (maybe my newer Constellation) to just suck it up instead of dealing with the possibility of broken screws (I am World renowned for stripping screws!).

4) This one doesn't really float that well. I've read they don't float well on carpets -- is that true of this "newer" model vintage Constellation?

Oh, and I mentioned this is missing the hose. That is true, however, it *does* have the plastic connector that attaches to the body. Maybe just slip another hose over that, as long as it is tight?

Thanks!