What Kirby did I Get!?

[penie396]

I just got a kirby and I'm trying to figure out what I have. The power switch is from a red 500 series (I think). The label on the bottom says Its a Dual Sanitronc 50, as does the belt lifter and the bag top. So I think thats what I have, but the light cap doesn't have the kirby emblem. did some sneak out of the factory without the glowing Kirby label? Also are teh double front wheels a normal thing? or does this have a axle from a laker model?

Check out the Pictures.

Oh and I'm pretty sure it has the cord or a Classic or Classic omega. what color was the original cord on these?

Thanks for your Help

 

[kenkart]

What you have...

Is a D-50 with a Classic wheel axle assemble, it should have 1 wheel on each side, it has a red instead of tan switch button and a earlier model hood, looks like something a lot of vac shops did years ago...but never fear, its a easy fix to make it original!

 

[super-sweeper]

<p style="padding-left: 30px;">Hi! The DS50 ran from 1964-1967! It was only the 1964 models that featured the illuminated KIRBY headlight, as a celebration of Kirby's 50th anniversary (hince, Dual-Sanitronic <span style="text-decoration: underline;">50</span>). The 'Dual' part refers to Dual speed, this was the first model to feature 2 speeds. As for the 'Sanitronic' part, well, it was quite the Sanitation  system! 

</p>
<p style="padding-left: 30px;"> </p>
<p style="padding-left: 30px;">Have fun, and remember, whatever Kirby you get is a great one! 

</p>

 

[penie396]

Very cool. All Kirby's are great. I't looks like I have a spare set of wheels now once I get it all fixed up, though I kinda like the Frankinvacness.

One other question, It doesnt seem to have much suction. what could e the cause? I've taken the bag off and cleaned it. I even tried it with my Legend II bag set up and it just doens't seem to pull much air. anything I should check out?

where does one find the serial # on these?

 

[super-sweeper]

Why, you find the serial number in Photo #2at the start of this thread, on the builder's plate, #141503! 

 


Kirbys don't need much suction, but go ahead and pop the fan cover off. Check for any clogs or fan damage! 

 

[kirbyrama]

Happy 50th Anniversary to the Dual Sanitronic 50 !

 

[super-sweeper]

Thanks, you're 50 years late! 

 


Could you imagine if...the new Kirby was called the Dual-Sanitronic 100? 

 

[kirbyclassiciii]

Serial no. A141503. . . yours is a 1965 model.

Regarding the replacement toe-touch axle, I like that better as it makes the nozzle easier to remove and re-attach.

Here's my 1969 Dual Sanitronic 80 with the Kirby Classic III axle.

~Ben

 

[sptyks]

You may need to wash the bag to get more suction. The bag's pores may be clogged with dust which will reduce airflow. Check the fan and make sure all the blades are there.

 

[penie396]

So I have a dual 50 I can tell by the safety switches and the label. But shouldn't it have a glowing Kirby logo on the light cover? Were some made without this? Or did it get swapped out at some point?

 

[kirbyclassiciii]

Preston,

Yes, it should. You want part number 160065S. But it may not be available from Kirby anymore.

~Ben

 

[penie396]

Can I just call up Kirby and ask for that part?

 

[kirbyclassiciii]

Preston,

You can if you call 1-800-437-7170 and ask them for the part # in question. They'll likely refer you to your nearest Kirby sales/service center.

It is also likely that part #160062S is what they currently recommend to use for all tan-trim Kirbys, including your D50. If that is the case you may need to look around for a parts D50 that has a good headlight assembly with the Kirby logo bezel on it.

~Ben

 

[super-sweeper]

Penie, did you never see my reply? 

 


'only the 1964 models carried the lighted 'KIRBY' logo, as a tribute to Kirby's 50th anniversary'


 


you own a 1965 model, so your unit never came with the logo! 

 

[kenkart]

Thanks Super Sweeper!

I never saw a D-50 without the lighted hood, but then I never saw many of them in my hometown,,,tons of D-80s though!I learn something new everyday.

 

[super-sweeper]

No problem, Kenkart! You know,I saw a Kenkart just the other week! I wrote about it in another thread, I'll tell the tale again if you want! 

 

[penie396]

Super sweeper sorry I must have looked over it! Thanks

 

[kirbyvacuum]

Kirby

Hi Preston How is the suction with the hose hook-up? That should tell the story. I have the same Kirby and like it very much. Doug

 

[penie396]

I need a hose for it I'm trying to find one for it. It doesn't lift the carpet like I'm use to seeing.