Replacing power cord. How does cannister come

You need to replace the cordwinder. All models are different to get to cordwinder. Screws are hidden under power and cord buttons...

There's almost always a screw in the back (heel) of the iron, just behind where the cord enters. It might be a Torx or clutch head vs, straight or Phillips.

Take the screws out to take the handle apart. Remove the switch and take it to your hardware or local vacuum to to get the correct replacement.

This might be trial by ordeal---you may have to begin taking screws out until the unit separates where you can pull the case apart to get at it--note where screws go if different types etc.

This unit is so old a service manual might not be available for it but you can try to Google the model number with "service manual" to see.

First you need to remove the Dirt Cup followed by the front cover / handle. Page 4 1-6 of the PDF Manual below shows how to do this.

http://static.fixya.com/Manuals/H/Hoover/5288_900_prg_B4F5E4DE0DB02590E2525C367EFB5C4C.pdf

This should then give you access to remove the internal cover and replace your cable.

What brand. MOST canisters have screws from below in the wheel area or inside the bag housing hidden under the gasket.

Flip the vac upside down and look for two screws from the underside near the wheels. If they are not visible you will need to remove hidden screws from above by prying gently at the back of the vac where the body panels meet at the bumper. Also look for two vertical screws in the bag area.

I suspect you have done something on this by now but . . . You need to pry out a plastic cap/insert in the top of the handle. Beneath it are 1-2 screws to remove. The halves will then come apart. I have mine broken down but have no idea what to do now. It is not making steam. Reply if you have any thoughts.

Keith

There are 2 wires in the swivel neck on the power nozzle. They are prone to coming unplugged. There is a hidden screw under the plastic cover on the face of the neck. Take the screw out and pop the cover off. You'll see the wires. If one is broken, you will need a new neck. They are about $40 at your local vac shop

Those screws are hidden under the plastic that you press to make the cord retract.The way I get into that area is to pry it up from the side of the cord retract panel.They take a fair amount of leverage to get it off but it is straightforward from there-Good Luck,