How to Repair a Kirby Vacuum Switch

Unplug the vacuum from the wall outlet.

Remove the scuff plate on the vacuum cleaner. This plate is located at the base of the vacuum cleaner and holds the power cord clip. Depending on your Kirby vacuum model, you will need either a Phillips or Torx head screwdriver to remove the screws that hold it in place. Use a flat head screwdriver to release the latch once the screws are removed.

Take off the vacuum's cover shell after removing the scuff plate. The cover shell is held in place by two screws.

Cut the cable tie with wire cutters that holds the headlight wire's protective tubing in place. Disconnect the headlight wire.

Remove the screw that holds the power switch in place with either a Phillips or Torx head screwdriver, depending on the model type.

Pull off the ON/OFF pedal cover. Remove the on/off pedal from the actuator rod. This will also just pull off.

Remove the screws that hold the tech drive, also known as the vacuum's transmission, in place with a Phillips or Torx head screwdriver. The tech drive is a flat metal plate on the bottom of your Kirby vacuum.

Pull off the transmission belt by holding the gears together to create slack in the belt. Pull out the transmission after removing the belt.

Disconnect the wire that attaches the motor brush to the switch then unscrew the motor brush from its housing.

Remove the power cord by removing the screws, cover and the cord itself. The screwdriver type will again be dictated by model. The cord assembly will come out with a slight clockwise turn.

Pull out the defective switch and replace it with a new one.

Insert the headlight wire into the new switch.

Re-install the motor brush and reassemble the components and screws in the reverse order of removal. To reattach the transmission belt, hold the gears together then mount it back into position. Use a zip-tie to secure the headlight wire's protective tubing in place.