How can I fix my Kenmore Canister vacuum, model 116.20813001?

Lift the main lid where the dust bag is and remove the two screws at the back. Follow the directions in the previous answer about removing the cord rewind button. You can usethree butter knives to push down and pry the "ears" towards the back of the vacuum until all three pop out. Now you can see the remaing two screw holding the lid on. Once the lid is off, just lift out the cord reel, pull some cord out then manually wrap the cord back around the reel. Repaet until you get the rewind spped you deire when pushing the button. Replace reel assembly, put spring under button and snap into place.

Brian Parlee, Kingston , Canada
February 2005

If you have a rewind button about 6" wide, it is held in place by 3 plastic "ears" that have to be unhooked. There is a spring under this button that makes it harder. Wedge a screwdriver under the lower edge to lightly pry out, then press down on the three "ears" all at one time with 3 screwdrivers. Sounds hard until you know the trick. The remaining 2 screws are now accessable. Haven't tried putting it back with the spring tension working against me. Good luck. I'm trying to get to my relay to test and/or replace.

Jack T
November 2004