20 Most Recent Riccar 8955 Upright Vacuum - Page 7 Questions & Answers

The brushes in the motor are worn to the point that they are not working, it is shorting out.

Start by checking the suction opening by the brushroll. Then remove the screws and take the nozzle cover off. Remove the cover to be able to inspect the impeller for clogs or debris. Pull the motor if necessary to gain access to the lower end of the suction tube/handle.

Your 8650 is likely about 30 years old. It may not have a reset switch. If it won't run it may need a new cord or switch. If it's in good shape it may be worth having it looked at by your local Riccar dealer.

Lay the vacuum on the floor upside down, remove two screws to remove bottom plate to get to the lightbulb

Hello, Refer to page 9 of this owners manual. It involves removing a plate on the bottom. http://media.riccar.com/manuals/8000_Owners_Manual.pdf

Remove the screws holding the cover that holds the handle in to remove the handle. Reverse the procedure with the new handle.

Your 8955 could be as old as 18 yrs. Try tightening the screw holding the handle in, it could be loose allowing the handle to move back and forth enough to keep the switch from activating. If it's an older vacuum or is used heavily it could have cracks in the body where the handle screw attaches or some damage inside the vacuum body where the handle bottom goes into. If that doesn't help, Remove the bag door, remove the screws at the top to remove the cover to gain access to the area where the switch and wiring is located to inspect for the cause. When you push the lever at the top of the handle a lever going down activates the switch. It doesn't take much play in the handle to make the switch go on and off.

I will likely save money by having it checked out by your local Riccar service center. A Brilliance can last a long time and work great but like any quality vacuum should be properly serviced every year or two depending on use. A qualified service technician knows what to look for and what your vacuum needs to work properly.

The most likely thing is you need a new switch

Your m 2150 L is likely 25 to 30 years old. The first Riccar vacuums were made in Japan. Your was likely made in Taiwan. Production of most models was brought to St. James, MO 20 years ago. Filters, bags and some parts are still available from your local Riccar dealer, or from ThatVacGuy.com

I'm not sure if that model does but if so it will be on the back of the vacuum in the area of the motor compartment.

Hi Patty. Could be: Power cord. Check esp. strain-relief where cord enters housing. On/off power switch. Needs strip down & continuity check. Motor burnt out. Smell if burnt. Strip search. Carbon brushes inside motor worn. Dismantle & check / renew. Does this help? Regards, Clive.

If the screw has no head it may be a stray screw that doesn't belong there. Even if there is a missing screw in your Sunburst it would likely not cause any harm to it.

Try pushing the reset button on the back of the vacuum.

From your local Riccar dealer

Have it looked st by your Riccar dealer.

The belt should be replaced at least once per year. They lose elasticity and will slip when vacuuming. The brush strips in the brush roll can be replaced. It is well worth having it serviced by a Riccar dealer,. The 8000 series can last many years but any long lasting vacuum will require routine maintenance.

Check the back of it.

If your Riccar is overheating you most likely have a full bag, clogged filters or a clog somewhere in the hose or vacuum tubes.