The Hoover Model 150

[TheSushiGod]

Hello!

This is my first post here. This past week I was browsing a second use store in Seattle and I saw hidden behind some other more modern vacuums a vacuum that had an art deco vibe. I picked it up for only $20 thinking maybe I'll turn it into a lamp. Well, upon further research I found out it's a 1930's model 150. Once I got home I plugged it in and bam, it fired right up and works in both speeds! Knowing this I couldn't very well sacrifice a piece of vacuum history to the lamp gods so I've decided to restore it! A couple of questions: Did the light portal on the front originally have a clear "shield" of sorts? Is it possible to take it apart and replace the brushes in the motor? The wheels are falling apart yet I am going to 3D print some to replace the originals. Has anyone been able to replace the handle? It's badly cracked. There's an attachment port on the side. Does anyone sell or know how to replicate the attachments? Thanks folks!

 

[centralsweeper63]

That is my dream model. I hope someone can help you.

 

[hygiene903]

Welcome to Vacuumland! You were so lucky to find a Hoover 150 for $20! It was indeed Hoover's top of the line model from 1936-39 and sold alongside the intermediate model 25 and the economy model 300. If I'm not mistaken, there was no lens over the light portal until later models, but I could be wrong. The motor brushes are replaceable, but having never worked on one of these myself, I will say there are several Hoover experts on this forum who can help you out. When you said the handle is cracked, I'm assuming you meant the rubber grip at the top of the handle, but I don't know if it can be replaced without replacing the entire handle. As for the attachments, Jimmy Martin (rugsucker here in Vacuumland) might have a set, and maybe some of the other parts you might need. Congratulations on a great find, and good luck with your restoration!
Jeff