A while back I came into possession of a Hoover model 700 along with a set of attachments. I am fortunate enough to have received the original box the attachments came in. There was also a replacement set of beater bar brushes inside. The vacuum itself is in average condition to be 85+ years old - some surface rust here and here on the handle and a few spots of pitting on the body. The furniture guard is cracked and dry-rotted. The power cord has some bare spots, so it's getting replaced. The cloth bag looks like a 1950s era generic replacement.
My wife has been onto me for a while to restore this machine for her. I've serviced several Electrolux models from the '50s, so I'm not entirely new to working on vacuums.
I have a few questions:
Is there a good replacement available for the furniture guard?
How does the top of the bag attach to the handle of the vacuum? I assume there would have been a spring, but it is long gone.
Are there any common problems associated with these motors? What kind of servicing do they normally need?
What is the best way to repaint the orange badge on the body? Most of the paint has been worn off of mine and I'd like to try to find a close match to the original color.
Finally, does anyone have an original bag and manual for this cleaner that they would be willing to part with?