Super J, cord always sticking out and weird smell

[quebecois]

Is there a way to fix a weak reel so the cord would go all in?

Also, I have another issue with this SuperJ: when I run the motor, it always smells like gun powder at first , and then it goes away (or maybe I get used to it after a few minutes), is there something wrong inside I should be aware of?

 

[paul]

Think of a weak-retracting cord reel like a window shade that doesn't fully retract. To fix the shade, it is first extended to cover the window. Then, the flat pin is removed from its bracket, and the shade is rolled by hand—a foot or so. The flat pin is then reinserted and the shade tension is checked for desirability. It can be further rolled or unrolled manually for adjustment.

Applying that concept to the cord reel extend the cord several feet until the pawl catches in the ratchet; then remove the cord reel from its mounted position and carefully wind the cord by hand three turns. Remount and check tension. Repeat as needed.

Hope it works.

Also, an old Electrolux tip to assist in cord operation is to dust the entire cord with talcum powder every year or so—depending on usage.

_____

I'm not sure about the odor.

 

[human]

I see another issue with that Super J. The plug has been replaced with a lamp plug. I would put a heavy appliance plug on it, just to be safe. Some folks might even suggest replacing the whole cord but I think the plug should be sufficient, just make sure you've got everything tightened down nice and firm so it doesn't pull loose. They're easy to install with a screwdriver and a utility knife and not terribly expensive, about $3 or $4 USD.

 

[huskyvacs]

@quebecois

The smell is likely from the motor needing to be oiled (overheating), or carbon buildup on the armature from the carbon brushes that needs to be cleaned off. My Electrolux G has this smell too, along with soot stains on the exhaust housing (not good). I'm not sure what it's from either, but the switch on mine is also weird. It will buzz and turn the vacuum on by itself if you leave it sit untouched, I think it's just worn out terminals drifting together.

 

[suckolux]

Many I have had retract better if its on its end when you do!

 

[quebecois]

"Many I have had retract better if its on its end when you do!"

I knew that, tried it a few times without any success.

 

[quebecois]

Paul wrote : Applying that concept to the cord reel extend the cord several feet until the pawl catches in the ratchet; then remove the cord reel from its mounted position and carefully wind the cord by hand three turns. Remount and check tension. Repeat as needed.

How do I gain access to the reel? I removed the small screw under the case at the back but wasn't able to make it move.

 

[quebecois]

I also would like to know how to gain access to the motor to check for carbon build-up. I don't want to break anything working my way in without knowing what I'm doing.