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Why Is the Agitator Belt Loose on My Hoover WindTunnel Upright?

The Hoover WindTunnel upright comes in bagged and bagless models. Many vacuum models manufactured by Hoover use two belts to move the brush roll to pick up debris: an agitator belt and a motor pulley belt. The motor pulley belt operates the self-propelling bar, referred to as the large pulley, of the vacuum. The agitator belt, also referred to as the V-belt, moves the brush roll. Both belts are connected to the large pulley.
  1. Motor Pulley Belt

    • The motor pulley belt connects the motor pulley bar to the large pulley, which propels the vacuum with minimal effort. It’s larger and fits tight on the outside of the large pulley. The motor pulley belt may require replacing from general wear and tear of using the vacuum.

    Agitator Belt

    • The agitator belt connects the large pulley to the brush roll. It’s smaller and looser, because it simply turns from the motion of the large pulley. It should be loose enough to fit comfortably over the bar of the large pulley and brush roll grooves that connect the belt to the large pulley, but not so loose that it can move out of the groove in the brush roll.

    When to Replace

    • The agitator belt is designed to last for the life of the vacuum, according to Hoover’s user guide at time of publication. If the belt is loose enough to slide off the brush roll grove or slips during use, it can be replaced using Hoover part number 38528034. To replace the belt, remove the base plate of the vacuum using a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the four screws. Remove the motor pulley belt. Lift the brush roll and slide the agitator belt off of the brush roll. Slide the other end of the agitator belt over the large pulley and then pull the belt off. Slide the replacement belt over the large pulley, onto the small bar that connects the large pulley to the brush roll. Attach it to the brush roll in the grooves that hold the belt. Put the brush roll back in its casing. Replace the base plate by screwing in the four screws with a Phillips-head screwdriver.

    Standard Maintenance

    • To ensure the agitator belt functions properly throughout the life of the machine, clear debris from the brush roll after each use. Flip the vacuum over to expose the brush roll. Cut away any debris attached to the brush roll such as string and hair. Avoid vacuuming heavy string such as those from carpet ends and fringes on throw rugs.