My Kirby 511 spent the day in the spa and she's finally done!  She looks better than ever! But like anyone looking at 63 years, she has a replacement part.  The original fan was busted, so I had to put in a new fan kit.  I'll be on the lookout for a six blade metal fan -- maybe from a donor machine. 

I also installed new trim.  The old trim is in pretty good shape, but I want save it in case I sell it or give it away.  The new owner may want the original trim.  The bag is in amazingly good shape too.  Now all I need is a Sweet-Air plug. 

Bill, you've weaved your magic again. It looks amazing! That's one great looking bag!!

James

The bag came off a 510 that I have (and I think both models used the same bag).  The original bag on the 511 was in excellent shape except the screen printing all came off.  Other than a couple of small stains near the Em-tor, this bag is almost like new! 

Does anyone know what color the original Sweet-Aire plug would be.  I've only seen red (from later 500s), but I'm guessing it may have been gray or black.  I don't know if I've ever seen an original one.  I can always paint it out to change the color if I need to.  Thanks!

Hi Bill, All the "Sweet-Aire" Plugs were dark red in color. Kirby models 510-561 only had "Sweet-Aire" dispensers.

Some collectors believe that some grey ones was used on the very early run of 510s. I've never seen one tho.

I hope this helps.

James

Thanks for the replies!