Your handle lock is mostly likely stuck. I had the same thing happen to me. I tried to see if there was any videos that could help me but, there was none. Well, I notice that metal bar was sticking out at one end. So I place a flat screwdrew or in my case crowbar with that flat in one side, I placed that side of end that metal thing stick out and just hammer back inside. That's it.
A hot wire is hitting the frame. Unplug it take your time and remove the housing around the motor and you will find the stripped wire. Cover it with GOOD electrical tape and you should be all set
No - the silicon is an insulating material and would have no effect on the electrics of the vacuum. Most likely you have a bad connection - dismantle the vacuum again and check the wiring and the motor with an ohmmeter. Be very attentive with the brushes, if they don't sit perfectly on the collector the motor will not run.
To place the kirby G4 into gear - out of Neutral - just press down with your foot, the Gray & Green lever that is labeled N on the left side of the lever, which is gray, and D on the Right side of the lever which is Green (probably for GO). It is located directly below the Power button.
Good Luck
See Pic...
If you are unsure on how to splice the cord back together it may be best to just purchase a new cord. You can find a new G6 cord and it is easily installed into the switch at the base of the Kirby.
Kirby G6 Power Cord
GoodVac.com Technician
www.goodvac.com
1-800-775-6586
The belt could be old and worn out. Or if you have a high pile carpeting or fibers wrapping around the brushroll, these cause friction and when it gets hot enough it will melt either brushroll ends or belt. You can limit this by removing the brushroll and removing the fibers and hairs that wrap around the brush. You can also find a new belt here.
GoodVac.com Technician
www.goodvac.com
1-800-775-6586
I would take it in to a vacuum service center. I had a similar issue and they restored the Kirby back to new for $100, it's been running fine now for 2 years!
