Posted by Paul (in NY) on Sunday, December 24, 2006 at 10:33:49 :
The Mission;
Change the worn, twisted, cheap vacuum cleaner power cord.
Decision;
Any reasonably intelligent person should be able to replace a vacuum cleaner power cord.
Tools Needed;
Can't need many for a simple Vacuum Cleaner
Challenge;
Figure how this Bloody Thing comes apart.
Hidden plastic push tabs, screws all over. All screws out and the covers still won't come off. Found more hidden plastic push tabs. Now its opened up like a Christmas Turkey, parts everywhere. Power Cord termination is still buried under the motor. Motor and fan removed, finally get to the power cord connection to motor and switch. All set now, Got it made...NOT!
The original power cord had probably 20 gauge wires in the cord. These things are so cheap. And I want to replace the power cord with a quality 20 foot, 16 gauge UL Listed Extension cord. The crazy moulded plastic cord retention system wont fit a 16 gauge extension cord.
Re-Design;
Now I have to get the Dremel tool and open up the retention system, cut away one part of the system so the 16 gauge cord will fit.
Assembly;
I decided its time for a little Irish Cream to assist in assembly. Screws, clock motor/fan to match moulded in slots, more plastic locking tabs, hoses, covers, and now the Vacuum cleaner Headlight. You know the importance of the Vacuum Cleaner Headlight. Who Vacuums in the DARK ??? The headlight is just a cheap little lamp with no reflector....ARRG.
Headlight Re-Design;
Up grade to (2) HID headlights. Some more cutting and plasma work and she looks like a Locomotive at night.
Final Test;
Vacuum Cleaner works, HID Head Light works but now I need Dark Glasses...to much light. My Boys once again want to attack the vacuum cleaner so it must be working normal
Conclusion;
If your Vacuum Cleaner needs repair, TRASH IT, and buy a new one. A mere mortal is not meant to open a vacuum cleaner
Paul ( determined not to be reasonably intelligent
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