Like a different machine...
I gave it a try after I installed the new pulley and it's like a whole different machine. It's still a little more of a workout than some of my others but it definitely has some better manners now. I believe what was happening was since there was too much slack on the belt with the old, severely worn pulley, the brush roll was bogging down and not turning or at least not turning fast enough, causing the belt to overheat and fail.
Billy, I understand what you mean about getting those rubber ends firmly seated in the body of the vacuum. That was more of a problem with the old brush roll than with the one I just put in and I'm certain it also contributed to a few belt failures.
I am continually amazed by how well designed the Sanitaires are in their rugged simplicity. They're tough, powerful and very easy to work on. It's been fun bringing this one back and making it better than it was before.