Rainbow E Series Separator Stuck

[fantomfan]

I just bought an E-Series Rainbow off of Craigslist. It works perfectly and is in good condition, but the separator will NOT come off. I already took the nut off. I tried motor oil with no luck. I might try WD-40. I don't want to damage any components that are connected to the spindle. It needs to come off as it needs to be cleaned plus it is missing one of the "fins" and needs to be replaced. Everything else on it seems to be alright. Any thoughts?

 

[fantomfan]

Any thoughts?

I might take it to the vac shop. I certainly don't want to damage any parts since the motor itself runs fine.

 

[floor-a-matic]

Liquid Wrench or PB Blaster

 

[electroluxxxx]

I work in the New York service dept at rainbow and usually use a rubber mallet to break it free. It's usually dirt lodged between the Motor shaft and separator

 

[fantomfan]

Ok

Will that damage the motor components to hit it with a rubber mallet if you hit it too hard?

 

[fantomfan]

Update!

I took the "hook" end of my hammer (not sure what it's called) and gently pried at the top "lip" of the separator. It came right off and didn't damage anything! Just as I thought, it was THICK dirt that caused it to become stuck. Luckily there isn't really any rust up there. I'm ordering a NEW Separator, HEPA filter AND Rainbow air-scent tonight. I'm so excited to be able to use my new Rainbow soon!