When a vacuum cleaner smokes, it is usually only one of two possible problems.
It could either be that your motor burned up, or that your belts burned. The belts on this particular model are notorious for breaking, but the fact that your machine doesn't come on at all after this happened, sounds like it may be the motor.
Both of these issues have a unique smelling smoke. If the smoke smelled like an electrical burning smell, this indicates it's your motor. If the smoke smelled more like burning rubber, then it's probably your belts.
If the smoke smelled like burning rubber, here's a video that we've recorded showing step by step how to inspect, trouble shoot, and replace the belts on your vacuum cleaner. If you open it up and the belts are still in tact, then this probably is a more serious problem of the motor burning out.
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Most likely the flat belt has stretched enough so as to not turn the pulley that in turn turns the brush roll using a V belt. Also there is a small idler wheel, if hook up, then it won't engage the V belt.
To change the belts, make sure the vacuum is not plugged in. Lay it upside down and remove the screws holding the bottom plate on. Remove the bottom plate, pull the brush roll out noting how the belt goes so you will know how to put it back together. Especially how it goes around the idler pulley. Remove both belts, replace both belts, install the V belt onto the transmission first then around the brush roll and put the brush roll in place. Install the flat belt around the motor shaft and then onto the transmission pulley.
You did not specify your exact model, so I assume you are referring to the Hoover Model# U6616-900.
The handle is attached to the unit by 4 screws. Below is a picture for reference (in this case, you would do the opposite to remove the handle). Once the handle is removed, this should give you a start in accessing the wiring for the unit.
Some Wind Tunnels by Hoover have a poor design in the switch on the handle. Sometimes the switch does not turn on all the way and will stop running. Other times you can't turn the unit off.
Hey there! The thermal protector sensor can not be replaced. It protects the vacuums motor from overheating and burning out. If the vacuum is overheating, follow these quick trouble-shooting steps.
1. Remove the hose from the vacuum from both ends.
2. Use a broom stick to gently loosen and remove any clogs from the hose.
3. Remove the bottom plate and the brushes. Use a wooden spoon to gently break up and remove any clogs from the lower hose.
4. Clean the pleated filter inside the dirt cup by tapping it against the trash can until the dirt stops falling. This filter should be replaced at least once a year.
5. The pre-filter can be cleaned with a brush and then rinsed with water. Allow 24 hours to air dry outside the dirt cup.
6. Clean the secondary filter located behind the grill in the bottom of cleaner cavity. Remove the screw, and grill to access filter.
7. Rinse the filter in cold water with a mild detergent to clean. Allow 24 hours to air dry outside the vacuum.
Following these steps should stop the cleaner from overheating. Hope this helps!
Hello there! If you have replaced the belt and it is still slipping off, you may be not have the right belt for your vacuum. This unit takes a flat belt and a v-belt. Make sure you are replacing the belts with Genuine Hoover Parts. I have included the links below where you may go to order the belts specific to your cleaner.
WindTunnel PowerDrive Belt 2 PackWindTunnel Self Propelled Belt
Hope this helps!
Your self propel wire could be broken. Lean the vacuum back like you were using it. If you stand in front of the vacuum look down and to your left. When you move the selp propel button you should see a wire move. If not then it's broken.
Hi, it's Jeremy from Crucial Vacuum.
If there is too much suction, adjust the nozzle control knob to a higher setting. The knob is located on the front of the vacuum at the bottom. For optimal cleaning efficiency a low setting should be used for most types of carpet and for hardwood floors, tile, and deep carpets use a higher setting.
You can purchase direct all of your replacement filters, bags, and accessories for your Hoover vacuum from Crucial Vacuum with free shipping and an exclusive 10% coupon for Fixya.com readers, use code: FIXYA10
http://www.crucialvacuum.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=hoover
I hope this was helpful. If you would like further assistance, please feel free to give us a call at 877.750.9239. We have helpful and friendly customer care representatives on the line ready to assist you.
Jeremy Lerner
Crucial Vacuum Customer Care
http://www.crucialvacuum.com
Remove the handle assembly by removing screws and sliding off. Remove nozzle housing cover and unscrew fastener at end of cable. Pull cable from handle end out of cable sheath. Slide new cable into sheath and fasten at bottom as it was before. You will need to adjust the cable to the proper location so the transmission works properly in both directions.
I had the same problem - I found the elbow behind the brush was plugged. You have to remove the floor brush, canister, and hose. Look into the pipe from the top, looking toward the floor brush. Most likely, that's where its plugged. Also check the hose - run a broom handle down the hose.