Thread Number: 19227  /  Tag: Pre-1950 Vacuum Cleaners
Lux model 30/XXX tools
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Post# 212375   1/3/2013 at 15:11 (4,102 days old) by powermate1970 ()        

I got ahold of a very nice model 30 with the saddle caddy and tools, but I'm not sure they are the right tools for this model. Something tells me that the gleaner/rug tool is from a model 60/LX. Does anybody have any pics of the tools for a model 30 they could post. I'm also missing a piece. I think maybe the duster brush? I'm just not sure what I'm supposed to have. Thanks, Bill

Post# 212383 , Reply# 1   1/3/2013 at 15:36 (4,102 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Tools for model XXX.

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The chrome rug tool with the 'Gleaner' bar IS for the model XXX! If it is blue/grey then it's LX (60). By the way, Electrolux called that saddle thingy, a 'Companion!' It was sold as an optional tool, along with the Cord Winder, and Garment Aire bag, around 1948. Most of these tools were designed by Gustave E. Lofgren, head engineer for Electrolux. The carpet tool, bare floor tool, upholstry tool, crevice tool, and dusting brush all began with the model X11, and evolved from there. In 1948, new tools were introduced. Besides the Cord Winder, and so on, the power polisher tool was added. The sprayer, and vaporizor tools went back to the model X1, though they, like the other standard tools looked a bit different.

When the model E was introduced in 1954, so were the combination tools. By the way, Lofgren designed them as well.


Post# 212415 , Reply# 2   1/3/2013 at 20:09 (4,101 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Electrolux XXX rug tool.

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I don't have access to my vacuum cleaners, or patent books right now. Theses are in storage in Indiana, while I'm in Pa.. However, when I had a display room, I had a wall of rug and floor tools. Electrolux had 5, or 6 designes for the rug tool, and all but two featured the 'Gleaner.' They also had a flip top thingy that had a 'Gleaner.'

Here's a funny story. At the Electrolux factory in Old Greenwich, Connecticut, there was a cat who lived there. Her name was Sarah, and she was also an employee! Every day somebody would sprinkle catnip on a test rug, and let Sarah go to work. After an hour or so of rolling in the catnip, other employees would look at the fur left behind by Sarah. The rug was now vacuumed to see how well the latest prototype got up the cat hair. Thanks to Sarah, every Electrolux was good at getting pet hair!



Post# 212420 , Reply# 3   1/3/2013 at 20:30 (4,101 days old) by compactelectra (Palm Springs)        
Bill

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Here is a picture of the tools (all cast aluminum) that went with that classic machine.  Of all the machines I have, I consider this the pentulitmate vacuum cleaner.  They made millions of them and just about everyone remembers someone who had it. The best of the best of the time.  Built like a Sherman tank and totally functional.  Tania just found me a brand-new rug tool.  Over the years, the bumpers deteriorated, but the one she found me was like new.  Can't find it right now, but this will give you an idea of what the ensemble was all about with the cord winder and companion (tool caddy.)

 

PS - sorry - she needs a bit of dusting.


Post# 212421 , Reply# 4   1/3/2013 at 20:32 (4,101 days old) by compactelectra (Palm Springs)        
Here Is A Classic Shot

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From Charlie Lester.  From an aluminum ad I believe.  Definitely a shot from the time of this machine.  Love it!


Post# 212422 , Reply# 5   1/3/2013 at 20:37 (4,101 days old) by compactelectra (Palm Springs)        
And Just for fun

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Ms. Tania with the next model - the LX (or 60.)  An all-original machine from Hans Craig.  The early LXs used the XXX rug tool, the later one was blue on top.


Post# 212427 , Reply# 6   1/3/2013 at 20:49 (4,101 days old) by compactelectra (Palm Springs)        
The Early 60

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Had the same tools as the XXX.  Here is a shot of the early 60 with all the accessories.


Post# 212440 , Reply# 7   1/3/2013 at 22:01 (4,101 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Wow!

caligula's profile picture
Thank you Fred.

Some really great shots of classic Electrolux's. I see nothing wrong with that XXX! And as for Ms. Tania, fantastic!! The Elextrolux LX looks wonderful, even the box. As for the last, the page from the instruction book, that really warms my heart.

As you know, we just passed 30 years as a club, you are a big part of that. Thanks for all you have done to help make this club what it is.

With deep admiration and respect.

Alex Taber.


Post# 212443 , Reply# 8   1/3/2013 at 22:20 (4,101 days old) by s31463221 (Frenchburg, KY)        
Alex, Fred

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Thank you for the information! I never knew about Sarah the cat until now, but that certainly explains a lot!! The pictures of the machines and tools are awesome! Out of all the models of Electrolux vacuums I own, I find myself drawn to the XXX as much as any model, I think they are absolutely gorgeous and have such classic styling that is still impressive even today! The good part is, millions were made so I still run across them quite a bit! Great posts guys, thanks!!!

Post# 212453 , Reply# 9   1/3/2013 at 23:51 (4,101 days old) by frkirby560 (Memphis, TN)        
Lux Model 30 tools

The Model 60 came out in 1952, using the same basic attachments as the Model 30. Electrolux continued to produce the Model 30 up through at least 1954; it was sold as a lower priced "budget" model, since it did not have all the features of the Model 60 and then Model 61. At some point in the production of the 60 and 61 they began to use the newer tools with the blue/gray/greenish color. Some of the last Model 30's were sold with the newer rug nozzle/gleaner. That's probably why you have that particular rug nozzle/gleaner with your Model 30.

Post# 212460 , Reply# 10   1/4/2013 at 02:04 (4,101 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
The Model XXX was the longest running Electrolux.

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The model XXX (30) has an interesting history. Not only was it the longest running model, it was the first Americam made Electrolux. All Electrolux models prior to this were made in Sweeden. True, the last of the model X11's were made here too, but the XXX was made exclusively in Old Greenwich, Connecticut.

Gustaf E. Lofgren started working for Electrolux when the factory opened in 1933. He was the man who designed most of the machines, and tools. The model XXX was introduced in 1937, and ran till late 1955.

Electrolux did not plan it this way, but with the outbreak of WWI1, all vacuum cleaner companies went into war production. Slated to follow the model XXX was the model XX (20). It had a sleeker body, and while a few thousand were put into production, all vacuum cleaners were quickly halted. All that was left were the prewar XXX's. After the war, Electrolux, returned to the XXX, now known as the post war machines. As for the XX? it was scrapped!

Right after the war, Lofgren, and his engineers went to work on an idea to let the user know when it was time to change the bag. Over 20 designes were tried, and some were quite odd. One looked like a model XXX but the bag chamber rotated out of the right side of the machine. Another lifted the main body off the runners, popped open the front cover, ejected the bag, and unhooked the hose coupling. There was even a canister design that looked and worked like a jack -in the - box! Also tested was the idea of a paper bag, thus Lofgren designed the self sealing 'wrapper' around 1949.

If I ever get back to Indiana, and can get my patent books, I'll share the patents, as they are very interesting. Actually, they were featured in a newsletter back in the 1980's. Maybe a member has a copy and can publish them for me, because they are very funny! And speaking of Electrolux books, I also have a copy of Electrolux - The first 50 years. This is where I learned about the cat Sarah.

The design that was finally used was that of Leon P. Borkowski, who patteneted an ejector style in 1951. And that is what was put into production in January, 1952. We know it as the model LX!

The first LX's didn't have control dial thingy, but as a number of them began to eject too soon, and not open the front cover, the bags imploded. So the first machines were outfitted with the dial to adjust the ejection setting. In order to save cost, the nameplate was changed from the red lettering on a yellow background, to the basic chrome. Then the optional wheels were added, and the use of hammertome blue completed the new design. Suddenly the model LX had become the LXI. Though basically the same, not as nice to look at!


As for the trim on the tools, they changed color to match the machine, as did the hose. The X1 was black, X11 brown, XXX, and XX gray, LX, LXI blue/gray. The XXX also changed the color of the leatherette, body paint and trim from dark gray in 1937, to a pale blue in 1955. The sled runners also changed fron flat, to rounded.

I happen to have a model XX, and find it a very good machine.

So there you have it, a brief history on Electrolux. I have a lot of other things about that wonderful company, but that's for another time.


Post# 212486 , Reply# 11   1/4/2013 at 09:39 (4,101 days old) by rugsucker (Elizabethton TN)        
XXX

All good information above.The moXXX has to be the most well known of all time.I had 2 childhood baby sitters,1 in town-1 in country,with XXXs.We had GE swivel top.Trivia-Last XXX Companion was fiberglass(a well known material after the first Corvette).MoLX companion added crevice tool clip.

Post# 212491 , Reply# 12   1/4/2013 at 10:15 (4,101 days old) by powermate1970 ()        
THANK-YOU THANK-YOU!!!!!

Alex, thanks for the great history of the lux. So much I wasn't aware of till now. Fred, that model 60 is BEAUTIFUL!!! My 30 has the same tools as yours, so mine must be original. The only difference I can see in appearance is my saddle companion has a "chain" fastener, but yours looks like possibly green "vinyl" I see I am missing the duster brush too for mine so I will have to scout one of them out. If anybody has an extra they would like to sell, give me a shout. For me, when I think of a "vintage" Lux or a 50's vacuum, my very first thought always goes to the model 30.(no offense to you hoover guys out there) To me, they are(model 30/60) the epitome of post war/baby boomer household electrics. They were to vacuums what maytag was to a wringer washer and sunbeam was to a stand mixer.
On an off subject, I want to take the opportunity to thank everybody in this club for welcoming me here, and all the "help/info" that I have received.
thank-you all,
Bill Berner


Post# 212528 , Reply# 13   1/4/2013 at 15:25 (4,101 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Model XXX the favorite of the line.

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Thank you Bill:

I grew up with Elextrolux's. My maternal grandfather was the house director of a boys school in Wallingford, Connecticut. That school was called Choate, today it's Choate/Rosemary Hall. As my 'grandpa' knew I was into vacuum cleaners, he often let me play in the storeage area where there were dozens of discarded Electrolux's, Hoover's, and Kirby's. He also was on a first name basis with two salesmen. Jack Early, who sold Kirby and Quinto Escarry, who sold Elecectrolux. The model XXX was everywhere! There was one in the barber shop, another in the chapel, and dozens in the various buildings. While my grandmother on both sides had moxel XXX's the lady next door, had a LX! I was about 2, maybe 3 when I saw it eject, and that was it, I was hooked. This lady was Jeanette Pletincks, and she was also a second mother to me. I'm sure it's because that model LX was hers that did it.

From that time on, I was always looking in closets to see what kind of vacuum cleaner people had, and most of them were Electrolux's!

When I was 17, I got hired as a salesman for Electrolux, but quickly learned that loving vacuum cleaners, loving to demo, and closing a sale were very different things. I was just too nice to close the sale! What I did learn was the history of not only Electrolux, but also Kirby, and so on. Then when I was 21, saw a two person hand pump non electric, and the historian was born!

Through my collection of instruction books (all brands) research of patent information, and aquisition of several machines, I got to learn the history of the Vacuum Cleaner. Mine was more or less hands on experience, as well as a photographic memory! Working for Electrolux, and later Kirby gave me a lot to work with. The only company I didn't know about was Hoover! But that was about to change.

I lived in Chesterton, Indiana at the time, about 50 miles from Chicago. I'd also made friends with a John Henry, who's father had started 'The Henry Co.' in Chicago. Through him I added a lot of machines to me collection. One afternoon he asked "have you ever been to the Hoover museum?" "no" I said, so he told me about the Hoover Historical Center. Two weeks later I went there, met the director, Stacy Krammes (her husband Don was the man who designed the Hoover floor washer), and suddenly I was told the history of Hoover. Now the world of the non electric, and early electric was at my fingertips. During my time at Hoover, I was treated like a full VIP, it was wonderful!

About a year later, I got a letter from Stacy, forwarding a letter from a collector in Palo-Alto, California, seeking info on the Hoover models, 150, and 700. This was John Lucia! Now there was somebody to share my wealth of information with, and we were in constant communication from then on. Then in the summer of 1982, John embarked on a cross country trip. Meeting me, and touring the Hoover Historical Center was on his list.

Together we saw the center, toured the factory, saw the Vault, and were both treated like royalty. As we went to the third floor of the factory, John and I both overheard one worker say to another. "I have no idea who these people are, but they must be very important, nobody gets to the third floor!" Back at the Center, Stacy gave us a list of names, the 5 people who were interested in collecting. As we were driving to my home state of Connecticut, I asked John if we should form a club? "I doubt if anybody will join, but it's worth a try, write to them and see." The result was the founding of the V.C.C.C.!

So there, in a nut shell is the history of our club.



Post# 212544 , Reply# 14   1/4/2013 at 17:07 (4,101 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
To all my organist friends.

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There are a number of club members who are organists. Here is a bit of vacuum cleaner, organ trivia.

The Welte-Tripp pipe organ was originaly made in Old Greenwich, Connecticut. While I don't have the complete history of this factory, I know it was also the home of the Dalton lathe company. Then in 1933, it became the home of Electrolux!!

I tried to do a Wikipedia search on Welte-Tripp, and came up empty handed. But I find it very interesting that two wonderful products were made in the same place.

More info please!



Post# 212561 , Reply# 15   1/4/2013 at 18:38 (4,101 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
The Electrolux 'Companion.'

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Hi Bill:

As I said, Electrolux introduced the Companion around 1948, though, as I don't have my patent books I can't say exactly when. The XXX was designed during the height of the 'Art Deco' period. One is also on display at the Metropolitan museum in New York City! At any rate, the Companion came in several designes. Some were for the XXX, others wre for the LX, LXI. With each, there were tabs for the rug tool, bare floor brush, upholstry tool, and dusting brush. Some were designed to hold the crevice tool, some were not. Also some used one tab to hold the upholstry tool up side down. (Hose end), another lets it sit on two tabs. This tool is also designed in two ways. One has the center thingy, the other is a wide nozzle. The chain on the XXX, and vinyl strap on the LX/LXI were there to let the user hang it on a door knob, or hook in the closet. As I like to keep my LX completely outfitted with (all ) tools, I have a 2nd companion with duplicate tools and use what's needed.

Again it's a matter of opinion, the Companion can saddle the machine in two ways. The picture of Tania using the LX is in reverse of the way I have it. I go with it as pictured in the instruction book. Actually, while I like it covering the compartment for the cord, it is better the way it looks with Tania vacuuming at Turantula Arms!

There were a few tools made of plastic. Actually these were bakelite. The dust brush, upholstry tool and top of the rug tool. They were made while we were at war, and there was no metal produced. Optional tools, which most people never used were also added to the XXX. The white bristle floor brush, and dusting brush!

Most of our club members don't know that the entire ensamble was sold as one unit! Everything you see in the picture was in two huge boxes. After the sale was made, and before the final price was agreed to, the customer would point to various parts, and the salesman would deduct the price of the power polisher, garnent aire bag, cord winder, companian, or what have you. Some people went with just the bare bones. Machine, attachments, hose, and wands. Others bought it all, including the cans of wax, moth crystals, and so on.

Why would a person want the power cord, when they went with the cord winder? Simple, it made a great extention cord. Another option was the hose. The hose? yes, the machine came with a standard hose, but a longer one could be purchaced. I believe the 12 foot hose was the longest. (Open for corrections here guys!)

So there you have it, as best as I can recall, that's the info on the Electrolux tools.

As I said, I welcome corrections, and so on. By the way, Fred, can we get a better look at that box. I have one in terrible condition, and this included the box that the wrappers were in. Please post a picture.

And last but certainly not least, hi Tania! our dear 'Air-Way Lady,' thank you for being a major part of our club. You are truly awesome!

Alex Taber.




This post was last edited 01/04/2013 at 19:16
Post# 212577 , Reply# 16   1/4/2013 at 22:12 (4,100 days old) by collector2 (Moose Jaw, Sk)        

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Hey Alex:

There was also a triangular shaped small nozzle in place of the regular one at one point (though I dont know exactly when). I have one with one of my model XXX's.

Just as a bit of trivia. The saddle or companion was also available for some of the Canadian 50 series machines and 50 series ones in Germany as well.

Doug


Post# 212578 , Reply# 17   1/4/2013 at 22:20 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        
I had to dust the shelves anyway.....

So, I thought I would help out with some pics. Here's my XXX with as many accessories as it had except for the Garment-Aire. I don't have one of those...

Post# 212579 , Reply# 18   1/4/2013 at 22:21 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

Optional cord winder (please excuse the aftermarket plug)...

Post# 212581 , Reply# 19   1/4/2013 at 22:24 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        
Sprayer/vaporizer

All of these machines/parts have in one way or another been restored by me in one way or another. I will leave it up to the experts such as Alex etc. to give a time-line of these items. I've been told I am not an expert!

Post# 212582 , Reply# 20   1/4/2013 at 22:25 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

Early XXX sprayer

Post# 212583 , Reply# 21   1/4/2013 at 22:26 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        
Correction: the above picture is an early vaporizer.

This is the sprayer....

Post# 212584 , Reply# 22   1/4/2013 at 22:28 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

Polisher with scrub brush/ring, polishing brush/ring and lambswool pad.

Post# 212585 , Reply# 23   1/4/2013 at 22:29 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

Succession of XXX rug tools.

Post# 212586 , Reply# 24   1/4/2013 at 22:30 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

Gray Hammertone companion that goes with this model since this XXX has no blue painted parts to it.

Post# 212587 , Reply# 25   1/4/2013 at 22:31 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

I just like the looks of this rug tool. It's not as effective as later models.

Post# 212588 , Reply# 26   1/4/2013 at 22:34 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

Early stamped steel, chrome plated dusting brush and bare floor tool. Shown with them, the optional suction control that would go between the hose handle and wand or tool.

Post# 212589 , Reply# 27   1/4/2013 at 22:35 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

Small, impressed logo.

Post# 212590 , Reply# 28   1/4/2013 at 22:37 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

This is what Doug is talking about. The corner/upholstery crevice tool. Top view.

Post# 212591 , Reply# 29   1/4/2013 at 22:38 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

Sold as optional equipment to get into couch cushion corners. Bottom view.

Post# 212592 , Reply# 30   1/4/2013 at 22:40 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

White bristle wall brush and dusting brush. For delicate surfaces such as wall coverings, tapestries and lamp shades.

Post# 212594 , Reply# 31   1/4/2013 at 22:41 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

New in box, never used dust bag and after filters.

Post# 212595 , Reply# 32   1/4/2013 at 22:42 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

I like the advertising they put on the outside of the dust bag.....view of interior.

Post# 212596 , Reply# 33   1/4/2013 at 22:44 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

Fibre (cardboard) radiator tool and plastic "G" crevice tools.

Post# 212597 , Reply# 34   1/4/2013 at 22:44 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

logo....

Post# 212601 , Reply# 35   1/4/2013 at 22:48 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

LX tools just for the heck of it...plastic parts. Also shown is the famous "Tuftor". Many discussions about the Tuftor back in the good old days on here...

Post# 212603 , Reply# 36   1/4/2013 at 22:56 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        
Speaking of "plastics"....

The rare Bakelite XXX rug tool. I call it the "blackout" model. Completely restored by myself (you should have seen the "before" pics). The aluminium parts are painted a dull gray just as cars' trim parts were painted in 1942 just before civilian production ceased for the war effort. I guess we didn't want the Germans to see the bright polished aluminium reflecting light as we vacuumed. Not that the XXX isn't completely covered with the stuff....

Post# 212604 , Reply# 37   1/4/2013 at 22:57 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

Logo...

Post# 212605 , Reply# 38   1/4/2013 at 22:57 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

Rear view...

Post# 212606 , Reply# 39   1/4/2013 at 23:01 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

slightly out of order here....logo on plastic upholstery tool. Made of the same type of plastic GE used that grows "fungus".

Post# 212607 , Reply# 40   1/4/2013 at 23:04 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        
Just for the fun of it...

The difference between nickel plating and the extra step of chromium plating. The model XII dusting brush on the left appears "yellowish" It is simply nickel plated. The early XXX brush on the right is chrome plated and looks bright silver or mirror like.

Post# 212608 , Reply# 41   1/4/2013 at 23:04 (4,100 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
2 companions.

caligula's profile picture
Of the 2 companions I have, one has the holder for the crevice tool, (called a 'narrow space cleaner.') It has the single tab to hold the 'upholsry cleaner. The 'dusting brush' sits behind this. There are two tabs for the ' rug cleaner,' and one wide one for the 'floor brush.' The other one has the two tabs for the upholstry cleaner, and no place for the crevice tool.

I searched both of these for patent numbers, no luck, but as I recall, the only patent information I found went with the model XXX. If memory serves me correctly, the man who designed this was Freman s. Doughman.


Post# 212610 , Reply# 42   1/4/2013 at 23:08 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        
Also for the fun of it....

Model XII tools. The round thing in back is the vaporizer it is made of steel and is "tinned" to help prevent corrosion. The Bakelite part on the right is a "converter" of sorts so that new hoses of the type used on the XXX could be used on the XII when those hoses were no longer available.

Post# 212611 , Reply# 43   1/4/2013 at 23:08 (4,100 days old) by gottahaveahoove (Pittston, Pennsylvania, 18640)        
Alex (Bob) Taber, AKA Caligula

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I just wanted you to know, that, Stacy Krammes, former director of The HOOVER Historical Center, passed away this September 9.  Her husband, Don, passed in 1973.  He was very highly thought of at The HOOVER Company. Stacy was with the "center" from the beginning, before they moved the house. Thankfully, she wasn't ill for long, as, she passed afte a short illness. Ann Haines was her secretary, and, of course, now, is the curent "Operations Coordinator"  of the center.I wasn't sure if you were aware of this, being that you, yourself, have been out of circulation since just after The Rainbow Roundup in Texas.


Post# 212612 , Reply# 44   1/4/2013 at 23:10 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

Logos on XII tools....dusting brush -

Post# 212613 , Reply# 45   1/4/2013 at 23:11 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

floor brush...

Post# 212614 , Reply# 46   1/4/2013 at 23:11 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

and inside of upholstery tool....

Post# 212615 , Reply# 47   1/4/2013 at 23:16 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

Model LX. Very early with the "plastic" side panels and the polished aluminium cord connector door. It has been updated with a final version of the ejector control.

Post# 212616 , Reply# 48   1/4/2013 at 23:18 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

Sorry, Narrow space cleaner...not radiator tool. Radiator tool was used by a different brand. See?

Post# 212617 , Reply# 49   1/4/2013 at 23:20 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

Notches for LX companion. I have seen some machines that only have one set of notches.

Post# 212618 , Reply# 50   1/4/2013 at 23:21 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

The dual notches allow the companion to be placed on the rear...

Post# 212619 , Reply# 51   1/4/2013 at 23:23 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

Or the front. Now showing the narrow "narrow space cleaner" clip.

Post# 212620 , Reply# 52   1/4/2013 at 23:25 (4,100 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        

One more and you won't have to put up with me for a while.....

A cloth bag for use with the Automatic E, F, G, and 1205


Post# 212622 , Reply# 53   1/4/2013 at 23:29 (4,100 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Oh my God!

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Thanks Crevicetool:

As I recall, you and I have met at one, maybe two conventions. In my paperwork is your restoration pamphlet.

This is awesome, I was actually drooling over these tools. I didn't mention the triangular upholstry tool, the suction control thingy, or the 'Tufter' because I didn't think anybody would understand what they were. As they say, 'a picture is worth 1000 words!' I have every one of the rug tools, and will comment after I have time to look at everything.

While I have all the tools for my LX, I don't have the wands, or a hose. My model LX hose is in bad shape, and in storage, the hose I have is a modern rubber hose from a vac shop, and wands from another brand. Any idea where I can get a braided hose? I hate this black rubber thing!

I'm glad you are still part of the club, please keep in touch. Shoot me an email.

Till tomorrow,

Alex Taber


Post# 212633 , Reply# 54   1/5/2013 at 00:23 (4,100 days old) by luxman107 (USA )        

Alex, your knowledge of electeolux history is outstanding. Thanks. Learned so much in this thread about my favorite brand of vacuums.
Rick, awesome pictures. Thanks for sharing them


Post# 212634 , Reply# 55   1/5/2013 at 00:24 (4,100 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Re. Stacy Krammes!

caligula's profile picture
Hi Gottahaveahoov:

Thanks for the info.

I met Stacy in 1980, and she was very good to me. She opened her file cabinet and took out over 50 black and white glossy pictures of everything from the Model O, to a series of non electrics, and gave them to me. She was the person who brought John Lucia and I together, and gave us the names of the first members. John and I also made her an honorary member.

I will miss her very much!

As for not being in the club, it's not anything to do with the convention. but rather location. I live in Benton, Pa. which you probably know has no access to cell phone service. There was also no dsl, so I had no way to contact anybody.

When I was planning to go to the Rainbow Roundup, I worked at a hotel in the town of Slatington, Pa,. My employer didn't want to let me attend the convention, but gave in. When I got home he fired me! From there, I went to Indiana to help my mother move into a retirement apartment. and then a friend I'd met while working for the hotel, asked me to return to Pa. and care for his father who was in advnced Alzhimers. My buddy's dad passed away on September 6. A week later we got hooked up to dsl, so here I am!

This club, and the people in it have always been on my mind, and in my prayers. Please send me an email, as I'm now right around the corner.

Glad I got back on line in time for the 30th Anniversary.

Alex.



Post# 212681 , Reply# 56   1/5/2013 at 10:43 (4,100 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Hi Crevicetool.

caligula's profile picture
Great pictures!

As I look closely the triangular upholstry tool has the same trim as the model X11 dusting brush. Mine is black, and prewar XXX. The suction control tool is also model X11. The bare floor tool with the small logo is either late model X11, or early XXX. I'm wondering if the gray bakelite dusting brush, and upholstry tool could be for the model XX (20)? the machine was that color, and came out just before or during the war. As for the 'Tufter,' it had a very short life, and was LX and LXI only. (Correct me if I'm wrong!)

As for the cords, they were made by the Belden wire conpany in Genevia, Illinois, (not far from Tarantula Arms!) I knew the head of research, Allan Douglass, (Doug), but he never told me the history of the vacuum cleaner cords. Belden also made cords for Hoover, Kirby, and ALL major brands.

Tell me how you got that LX looking so good. I often give mine a good polishing, but can't get it looking that good. Any ideas?

It's so good to be back in contact with the people who love and understand vacuum cleaners.

Please keep in touch.

Alex.





Post# 212693 , Reply# 57   1/5/2013 at 11:28 (4,100 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Combination tools.

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Now I have a question for the club.

As we all know the tools that went with the models X11 - LXI were replaced with the combination tools used with the E, and are still used today. However, the early General Electric Swivle top, also had a combination rug/floor tool. This was a flip design, whereas, Electrolux had the 'conector' thingy. Both were the same color two tone blue/gray, and looked very much alike. So did G. E. steal the idea from Electrolux, or was it the other way around? From a patent point of view, both were different, (sorta kinda) but clearly one copied the other.

My guess is G. E. was first, as the early swivle top came out in 1952, and the Electrolux E, in 1954. But both needed aproval from the patent office. so which came first, G. E, or Electrolux?

Alex.


Post# 212751 , Reply# 58   1/5/2013 at 14:25 (4,100 days old) by compactelectra (Palm Springs)        
Rick

compactelectra's profile picture

So glad to see you posting again!  As usual, your restorations put my machines to shame, but, no problem, I love looking at them.  Provides inspiration for me to get to work.  Just to clarify, the LX that I showed is Tania's.  She wheedled it out of Hans Craig in a shrewd trade.  When we get together, she brings her machines and we share with the group and then she vacuums my house.  Brings me back to the fifties.

 

This thread is what this site should be all about.  Sharing the history of vacuums, when they were truly wonderful works of art as well as functional.


Post# 212793 , Reply# 59   1/5/2013 at 18:06 (4,100 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Hi Crevicetool.

caligula's profile picture
How about a look at the underside of this great machine. Like the diaphram of the ejector, with or without the dial, and the compartment to store 3 wrappers. Also a shot of the front cover open with the ejector set, and another post ejection.

I have a lot of Electrolux info to share with the newer members of the club, as well as members who have read my histories before but may want to read them again. Tell me who I have to contact.

I'm glad to be able to post again.

Alex


Post# 212809 , Reply# 60   1/5/2013 at 21:11 (4,099 days old) by s31463221 (Frenchburg, KY)        
Alex, Rick, and to the rest posting in this thread....

s31463221's profile picture
I just want to thank all of you for such awesome posts! I have learned so much from reading these postings and while I have several xxx/30's and a couple of lx's mine come nowhere close the beautiful machines I've seen in this thread! I am one of the newer members, and I love learning all I can learn from you all! It's folks like you that make this club so great, willing to share your wealth of knowledge and passion for vacuum cleaners with the rest of us! I hope I will get the opportunity to meet you all in the future, but just reading your posts really are an inspiration to me!

Post# 212828 , Reply# 61   1/5/2013 at 23:19 (4,099 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Hi Fred.

caligula's profile picture
While all the vacuum cleaners are indeed wonderful to look at, I have to say that the area rug, the model LX is on is awesome! And please let Ms. Tania know how fantastic she looks in green.

If you want to learn the history of Electrolux, I wrote an in depth article several years ago. That as well as 'The history of the Non Electric,' 'History of the Electric," and 'The History of Kirby.' Each can be set to you via email. And this goes for anybody else on this thread.

Fimally, let me say that the facelift is wonderful. Tarantula Arms was fantastic before, now it must be awesome.

Thanks for starting Vacuum Land.

Alex Taber.


Post# 212906 , Reply# 62   1/6/2013 at 14:11 (4,099 days old) by luxman107 (USA )        

Alex, I would love a copy of your in depth article on the Electrolux history. Thanks very much in advance.
Mike


Post# 212914 , Reply# 63   1/6/2013 at 15:23 (4,099 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Hi luxman107

caligula's profile picture
I just made minor corrections this morning, and checked a few facts, now it's ready to go.

Send me an email at alextaber1@yahoo.com letting me know where to send it.

Alex



Post# 212916 , Reply# 64   1/6/2013 at 15:51 (4,099 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
The Story of the Electrolux Corporation

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When I wrote this we were just starting Vacuum Land, and it was intended to be published for all to read. Actually, it's a revised story that I wrote for our Electrolux issue in the winter of 1994. For that we had the Electrolux XXX on the cover, and the LX on the back cover. (See the two ads in this thread). But the newsletter I'm most proud of goes back to 1984. In this issue, I painstakingly positioned the pictures of the various prototypes of the ejector system, which were taken from my patent books. Maybe our Historian Marc T. can locate those pictures and post them, as their truly amazing.

When it comes to the history of Electrolux, Kirby, and the non electric vacuum cleaners, I have a wealth of information that I'd be glad to share.

Alex Taber




This post was last edited 01/06/2013 at 16:26
Post# 212920 , Reply# 65   1/6/2013 at 16:13 (4,099 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Electrolux canisters.

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This was an article used in the 1994 newsletter. The original went back to the late 1950's, and was published in the 'Electrolux News.' It seems that a group of Electrolux salesman went to the Electrolux museum located at the factory in Old Greenwich, Connecticut.

Being that I lived in Wallingford, Connecticut, a 45 minute drive from the Electrolux factory, I got to see this museum. Back in my boxes of club paperwork are the pictures of the tools, prototypes and what not. I also saw the canisters. Machines that were tested, but proclaimed 'not good enough' by the head engineers. These machines were increadible!

I promise you that in the spring I will go to Indiana and get all my VCCC paperwork. I also plan to start a scrapbook of the various display rooms, as well as pictures of the first two club meetings, 1985, and 86.

Needless to say, I'm having the time of my life on this thread, as it's about my two favorite models the LX and the XXX.

Alex.


Post# 212952 , Reply# 66   1/6/2013 at 22:00 (4,098 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
The Story of the Electrolux Corporation,

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has been scanned into my personal files. Anybody who wants to read it, can send me an email. Mark subject, 'Electrolux History.'

Post# 212985 , Reply# 67   1/7/2013 at 10:54 (4,098 days old) by rugsucker (Elizabethton TN)        
GE rug/floor

I don't have all the answers to this but the 1952 Swivel Top(815) still used seperate rug & floor nozzle that were introduced on the last deluxe tank.C-1 or C-2 was first with flip over that had to be reconnected in a different locking slot to go under low furniture unlike the Elux version.

Post# 212987 , Reply# 68   1/7/2013 at 11:48 (4,098 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Thanks rugsucker!

caligula's profile picture
That was my guess too, but being a vacuum cleaner historian, it's important to make sure my facts are correct.

As for that G. E. swivel top, it was two tone blue/gray. My grandmother gave one to her sister for a 25th wedding present. In 1968, I took that G. E. as a trade in (and kept it) when I sold her a new Electrolux 1205. That G. E. is now part of my collection.

Thanks for confirming my feeling that it was indeed G. E.!

Alex.


Post# 212989 , Reply# 69   1/7/2013 at 12:06 (4,098 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Great thread, fantastic pictures, but.

caligula's profile picture
While I have a lot of praise for all the members sending info on models XXX, and LX, how about the other great models on sled runners? I know there are some guys with great pictures, and a lot of info on models V, X1, X11, and XX's out there. And how about a look at those wonderful instruction books. The book of the X11 is very impressive, the period costumes and hair styles are a hoot.

Thanks guys!

Alex.


Post# 212990 , Reply# 70   1/7/2013 at 12:12 (4,098 days old) by s31463221 (Frenchburg, KY)        
Alex, Jimmy, or any other XXX expert

s31463221's profile picture
I do have a question about these machines (and yes Alex I agree 100%, I too would love to see some of the even older sled runner models) The "leather" material that is on the top half of the XXX, is there a suitable replacement for that? I have on that is ripped and torn in multiple places and just looks awful so I'd like to replace it with something as close to the original as possible. I have been thinking about possibly a faux leather contact paper or something like that, but not totally sure what I need for it. If that's not possible, does someone have a pattern of the top cover (completley spread out) with measurements so I could create something custom? The cover I need to replace isn't decent enough to get a good measurement/pattern from and I don't want to mess up one of my good XXX's for a pattern. Thanks!

Steve


Post# 212991 , Reply# 71   1/7/2013 at 12:13 (4,098 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Thanks Fred!

caligula's profile picture
What a wonderful anniversery present for me, my all time favorite vacuum cleaner, the LX!

Thanks for posting it, and you're right, this is exactly what the club is all about. A group of people sharing their love of the vacuum cleaner.

Alex.


Post# 213099 , Reply# 72   1/8/2013 at 07:45 (4,097 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Storage box for Electrolux XXX, and LX.

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Does anybody have any information of the various wooden boxes used to store the models XXX, or LX? This can also be the earlier models like the V, X1, X11, and XX. I know of three. Two were custom made for Choate School in Wallingford, Connecticut, the other I got at an Electrolux dealership in Lonbard, Illinois.

What else is out there?

Alex.


Post# 213931 , Reply# 73   1/13/2013 at 17:04 (4,092 days old) by powermate1970 ()        
here's mine

This is the vac I started the thread question about. I haven't done a thing to it yet, but it will look nice when I get done. I still have to find a duster brush for it. Anybody have one they would like to sell?

Post# 213937 , Reply# 74   1/13/2013 at 17:28 (4,092 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Sweet!

caligula's profile picture
That's one beautiful XXX!

Alex


Post# 213941 , Reply# 75   1/13/2013 at 17:55 (4,092 days old) by s31463221 (Frenchburg, KY)        
I completely agree with Alex....

s31463221's profile picture
That is indeed one beautiful XXX! I can't wait to see it when you're finished cleaning/polishing it!

Post# 213944 , Reply# 76   1/13/2013 at 18:10 (4,092 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
powermate1970.

caligula's profile picture
Thanks for starting this thread, please help keep it going.

Alex.


Post# 213945 , Reply# 77   1/13/2013 at 18:15 (4,092 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
All parts and tools apear to be original.

caligula's profile picture
That companion is indeed correct.

Post# 213961 , Reply# 78   1/13/2013 at 20:41 (4,091 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        

aeoliandave's profile picture
As Doug mentioned there was/is a tool saddle companion for Canadian 'breadloaf' machines. This is my Z57 ensemble.

Dave


Post# 213963 , Reply# 79   1/13/2013 at 20:47 (4,091 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        

aeoliandave's profile picture
I took 5 Electrolux machines spanning the Canadian 50 series sets to the 2011 Minneapolis Convention.
...along with several other Canadian/European cylinder vacuums ensembles for a north of the border perspective.


Post# 213980 , Reply# 80   1/13/2013 at 23:24 (4,091 days old) by floor-a-matic (somewhere)        
@powermate1970

I have an extra lux xxx dusting brush if you still need one.

Post# 214146 , Reply# 81   1/14/2013 at 21:46 (4,090 days old) by powermate1970 ()        
@floor-a-matic

YES, I'll definatly buy it from you, Thank-you. Drop me an email, and we can figure how you want paid and I'll get the money to you for the brush and shipping.
thanks,
Bill


Post# 214148 , Reply# 82   1/14/2013 at 21:57 (4,090 days old) by powermate1970 ()        
another question, LOL

Does anybody have an extra "saddle" companion for a model 60 they would like to sell? I've got a 60 coming with a set of tools, but no companion. Ill post a pic of it when it arrives too. (it might be an LXI, but I think it's a late LX). Alex, thank-you for the complement on my 30. I've passed up alot of them in the last 25 years, just because so many of them have been used, abused, and just beat to hell, and I wanted something in a little "nicer" condition to start with. I was very fortunate to find this one. It cost me less than 75.00 with shipping.


Post# 214173 , Reply# 83   1/15/2013 at 06:37 (4,090 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Hi powermate1970.

caligula's profile picture
You need a Companion for the LX? well I've got one that you can have. It's the type with the holder for the narrow space cleaner (crevice tool).

Glad to help.

Alex.


Post# 214572 , Reply# 84   1/17/2013 at 21:30 (4,087 days old) by powermate1970 ()        
Alex!!!!

sorry for the late reply. Have my dad and grandson both in the hospital, so it's been really hectic around here. Thank-you for the offer of the "companion" I would be more than happy to buy it from you. I received my 60 in the mail today, but I have some questions about it, as it is my first experience with this model. If you could shoot me an email, I would really like to ask you some questions about the "automatic" workings of this machine.
thanks,
Bill


Post# 214626 , Reply# 85   1/18/2013 at 09:17 (4,087 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Hi powermate1970.

caligula's profile picture
I just sent you an email re. the model LX companion, let me know if you got it.

As for the working mechenism of the model LX, this is not my expertise, but the history of Electrolux is. (Kirby too) I also have a short history of the vacuum cleaner, if you want them let me know.

Send me an email at alextaber1@yahoo.com

Alex


Post# 214633 , Reply# 86   1/18/2013 at 12:08 (4,087 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        

aeoliandave's profile picture
The LX Vacuum Cleaner is fairly straight forward; simple to take apart and adjust after you've done one.
The LX is extremely robustly engineered, there's very little that can break and refurbishment is easy.
What a giggly treat when the slide is aligned & lubricated, mechanical adjustments tuned up and the bag shoots out 10 feet - and more. :-)
The only thing not in this picture are the many differing length and size screws and bolts. I always insert them in a cardboard card to keep them getting mixed up.

The Magic Brain components are easily understood and require little maintenance. The biggest problem on an LX is the deterioration and possible disconnection of the vinyl air tube running through the door hinge to the intake's pinhole bleed.
Modern vinyl aquarium or rubber tubing replacement resolves this in a jiffy


Post# 214634 , Reply# 87   1/18/2013 at 12:21 (4,087 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        

aeoliandave's profile picture
The yellowed tube that connects the the bag door nozzle bleed to the main diaphragm trigger...and runs through the door hinge has usually hardened and cracked, disabling the Magic Brain action.

Replace this tube with an exact length new one - after cleaning the impacted dust from the bleed hole - and 99% of the time the LX performs flawlessly.

Dave


Post# 214637 , Reply# 88   1/18/2013 at 13:01 (4,087 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
WOW!

caligula's profile picture
Thanks Dave, this is awesome!!!

Post# 214639 , Reply# 89   1/18/2013 at 13:11 (4,087 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
The Ejection process.

caligula's profile picture
While I know this rather well I'm not an engineer. Can you discribe what causes the LX to eject, and what all those springs and levers do in that 5 second process. A lot of Electrolux buffs out there don't have a clue.

Thanks again,

Alex Taber.


Post# 214650 , Reply# 90   1/18/2013 at 14:05 (4,087 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Hi s31463221.

caligula's profile picture
Thank you for the great Electrolux hose. Suction is great! Guess who will be doing a good housecleaning tomorrow.

I'm very happy.

Alex.


Post# 214651 , Reply# 91   1/18/2013 at 14:37 (4,087 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Spray gun question.

caligula's profile picture
Do any of you find it odd that the top to the model LX's spay gun is blak bakelite? That looks of strange! I mean, it should have been the same color as the polisher attatchment. Perhaps the engineers thought this was not going to be used, but even so, it should match the machine. What do you think?

Post# 214657 , Reply# 92   1/18/2013 at 16:27 (4,087 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        

aeoliandave's profile picture
It would probably be easier to explain in a hands-on demonstration with props...or you could wade through the Engineer-speak on the patent applications or the Serviceman's Manual.

But I'll give it a KISS shot. (Keep it simple, stupid)

When the bag spring and attached bag 'sled' are folded and latched against the back of the bag chamber with a genuine Electrolux bag with sealed edge inserted, the bag/hose door is latched closed against its spring catch.

According to pre-set launch settings, when the pressure differential created when the motor and fan are spinning suction between the bag chamber and the bleed hole inside the hose coupler intake goes past a certain balance point due to accumulation of dust within the bag closing up pores, this differential exhausts enough air from a large rubber diaphragm that pulls down a floating lever connected to the bag door latch and the launch sled rail.
The door opens first on its coil-sprung hinges and drops flat to the floor at the same time that the interconnected power switch is flipped to OFF by a toggle wire.
The dust-clogged bag now being sealed by residual suction to the rubber seal bag compartment rim, as the motor winds down the suction holding the bag in place lessens to the point that the spring latch, now in a half-cocked position, releases the powerful flat folded spring and shoots the bag support sled down the rail to its stops flinging the loose bag out of the machine.

My record fling was achieved by filling a dust wrapper with a carved styrofoam block, btw)

Each of these automatic actions has a external mechanical override lever so that the door can be opened or the bag ejected with the LX unplugged from the wall socket.

On the first generation LXs without the control dial the single setting was established at the factory then fine-tuned in the purchaser's home.
It was found that different above sea levels and particulate size of the household dust environment could cause the ejection to happen prematurely - Oh My! - before the bag was at full capacity, or not at all after the bag was beyond full.
The quick-fix solution from the Factory or Dealer was the Attic & Cellar Key that jammed the release lever to maximum bag fill.
These keys are scarce as hen's teeth but that's ok since most early LX's were retrofitted by the Servicemen with the control dial mechanism.You were advised to store the key under the power cord plug door on top of the machine. Not all LX's came with the cord re tractor - it was an up-sale option.

The 2nd generation aluminum (later plastic) rotation dial addressed this failure to adapt to the various dust properties throughout the same home so that bags were not wasted unnecessarily and Milady could adjust the trip action as she pleased, from outdoor to basement to main floor to attic, from sea level to Denver heights.

The final version of the LX (model 60), the LX1 (model 61), added features such as rear wheels on the runners and a flip sideways cord winder so that one didn't have to unscrew & remove the cordwinder to access the blower port.

Whew! read over several times.
Dave




This post was last edited 01/18/2013 at 17:17
Post# 214664 , Reply# 93   1/18/2013 at 17:35 (4,087 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Thanks Dave.

caligula's profile picture
In all my years of working with the model LX, I never knew the term for that flat thingy coiled up, and used to push the wrapper out of the dust chamber. Now I know, it was a 'sled!' There are so many terms not know by most of us, and yet, we know the machine better than the backs of our hands.

As for the picture, yes, I have this, and am glad you shared it with those who don't know the model LX like we do. However, I find it a bit disapointing that the person responsible for this photo shoot used this model which is a LXI (61) and did not use the LX which had the name Electrolux in red lettering on a yellow background, far more impressive from an advertizement point of view.

And you can teach an old dog new tricks, because I never knew the winding down of the motor caused the rubber gasket to trip the latch under the diaphram, and activate the sled.

Do I have permission to use this discription in future referances to the LX updates of the History of Electrolux? I'm planning a much longer version in the near future.

Thakns again.

Alex.


Post# 214694 , Reply# 94   1/18/2013 at 21:17 (4,086 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
What were they thinking at Electrolux?

caligula's profile picture
Wouldn't it have looked more impressive if that model LX had been outfitted with the companion and all the attatchments? This was for Good Gousekeeping, Life, and Look magazines. Shouldn't they have shown the LX in all it's glory?

Post# 214697 , Reply# 95   1/18/2013 at 21:55 (4,086 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Fine tuning process.

caligula's profile picture
Dave' you mentioned that the first generation LX's were fine tuned in the customers home. My model LX has a tiny belly button like thing just below, and slighly left of the lever to open the front cover. Was this were the salesman pre set the mchenism, or is that just a nick in the front cover?

I've read your discription over several times. Awesome! Thanks for wording it so well.

By the way, do you know the history of the Electrolux Corporation. I've written several versions of it, but the earliest is on of the best, as i also follow the k.i.s.s. metheod. If you want a copy let me know.



Post# 214698 , Reply# 96   1/18/2013 at 22:02 (4,086 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        

aeoliandave's profile picture
It might have looked more impressive but Electrolux Marketing chose to show the concurrently available bare sleek machine tossing out a bag. That was the focus of this expensive advert. The ad dates from 1954 and the coloured plastic inserts were no longer available.
Resides the Companion was an up sale option.
I don't believe I've seen a color print ad for the first LX other than the 1952/53 Owners Manual.
Remember also that this double page print add was for the second edition LX with plain stainless steel trim plates, another bean counter directive in exchange for the dial, I'm sure.
Dial-less LXs are the hardest to find because of Electrolux's diligence in hunting them down and fitting the dial.

The model LX Model 60 was introduced in 1952, the plain side LX appeared new in 1954 with the control dial (which was widely retrofitted to the early models, and the LXI was introduced in 1955 with wheels on the runners, a newly designed rug nozzle that was partly made of blue plastic, and the very last of the LXIs had blue-plastic dusting brushes and upholstery nozzles. The LXI was produced for less than a year as the lightweight Model E came online with the same new tools and the combo upholstery/dusting brush.
That's what the decades of research tells me and that's good enough for me.

I simply cannot call a 2nd generation LX a model 61 LXI - it's not stamped under the strap handle trim piece plates of either of my 3 nor have I seen the stamping on anyone else's unless they are genuine 1955 LXIs...

Dave

(My apologies for hijacking the original Lux model 30/XXX tools thread but after Crevicetool's contribution it seemed fitting to do so. I had no idea it was going to gallop to such length for what should have been a separate LX/LXI thread.)

This is the Service Technician's Kit for adjusting the first version dial-less LX in the customer's home or on the bench. It requires the unbolting of the pneumatic unit with the door attached. 3 bolts, iirc.
The 14 page illustrated booklet is excruciatingly comprehensive.




This post was last edited 01/19/2013 at 01:31
Post# 214703 , Reply# 97   1/18/2013 at 22:29 (4,086 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
The vacuum cleaner that started my collection.

caligula's profile picture
Many times over the years I've told the story of how it was the Electrolux model LX of a dear friend that started it all. But I've never told the full story.

As I've often said the lady who owned the Electrolux was Jeanette Pletincks, and she was like a second mother to me. I've also told how I made a pest of myself, waiting to see it 'pop.' When I started working for Electrolux in 1968, my first demo of the new 1205, was to Jeanette. My secret hope was that she'd buy the 1205, so I could keep her LX. No way, she did not buy. She kept that Electrolux to the day she died, which was in 1985. By then I'd moved to Naperville, Illinois.

One day, a few months after her death, there was a knock on the door, and there was a UPS driver. "I have a delivery for you" he said as he handed me a huge cardboard box. "You must have the wrong house, I didn't order anything" I said. Then he said, "It says Bobby Taber!" I was only Bobby to a few people, so I took the box. Inside was Jeanette's LX, the only thing not original was the cord winder, seems the original's spring had sprung and was replaced. But there it was What I did not know was that back when I was a kid, Jeanette had told her husband that this LX would be mine.

Needless to say it went into my display, but befor that I used it to create my own version of the inside of the instruction book. See what you think.



Post# 214708 , Reply# 98   1/18/2013 at 22:46 (4,086 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Awesome!

caligula's profile picture
Thanks for the explination of the magazine ad, that makes sense, but I still wish it had the fancy nameplate, and tools.

And thanks for showing the adjustment kit.


Post# 214777 , Reply# 99   1/19/2013 at 09:55 (4,086 days old) by rugsucker (Elizabethton TN)        
-LX-

There is an early magazine ad(and this is when Elux just started using magazine advertising after much study according to an advertising textbook I have)showing only the 'see no,touch no,breathe no dust'lady and directing reader to set up a demo.It is somewhat like the Duesenburg ads showing elegant,wealthy woman(or man)and stating"She(or he)drives a Duesenburg"without feeling the need to show the product.--I have heard that at one time Elux had the idea of adjusting the LX to the region they were shipped.That is shipment to sandy beach areas would be adjusted differently than shipment to dusty desert states.I wonder how long it took to realise that each house and even each room can have its own dust conditions?

Post# 214783 , Reply# 100   1/19/2013 at 10:41 (4,086 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        

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Jimmy, likely as soon as the LX complaints started rolling in for premature ejaculation. :-)

Dave


Post# 214789 , Reply# 101   1/19/2013 at 11:08 (4,086 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Hi rugsucker.

caligula's profile picture
I've addressed this subject in detail in my article 'The History Of The Electrolux Corporation,' which was published in several newsletters. However, here is a brief excerp telling about the minor repairs in the field.

'There were problems right from the start with this Electrolux, though they were minor, they were numerous enough to force the engineering department to improve the machine. The ejector worked as intended, but all too often the front cover didn't open fast enough, or not at all, and this caused the bags to burst under pressure. This sent dust and dirt into the motor chamber and had to be repaired, or replaced at the expence of Electrolux. It was decided to put a retard dial on the front cover in order to slow down the ejection process.' I have since rewritten this article, and go into far more detail. If you want a copy let me know and I'll get it to you.

Alex.


Post# 214812 , Reply# 102   1/19/2013 at 13:50 (4,086 days old) by Smith (North Carolina)        

Wow, awesome thread. The LX has always been one of my favorite Luxes. Very nice examples in this thread!

Post# 214830 , Reply# 103   1/19/2013 at 17:14 (4,086 days old) by crevicetool (GA )        
Here's a blast from the past.....

Some of the devices talked about in the following archived thread about the automatic control can be seen in the pictures above. Please pardon the sad attempts at humor within my portions of the thread. I thought I was funny back then.....

CLICK HERE TO GO TO crevicetool's LINK


Post# 214833 , Reply# 104   1/19/2013 at 17:41 (4,086 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
My Thanks to everybody who has posted on this thread..

caligula's profile picture
This has grown like a weed, and I love it. Big Fred said it so well, this is what the club is all about. There can be no doubt that the Electrolux model LX in any form,, from first generation to the last LXI that rolled off the assembly line at the factory in Old Greenwich, Connecticut was the most advanced vacuum cleaner of it's time.

And I hope this thread continues, as there's a lot more info on Electrolux models as well as the XXX and LX.

Alex Taber.


Post# 214836 , Reply# 105   1/19/2013 at 17:44 (4,086 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        

aeoliandave's profile picture
Fun Things to do with your Lux...

I'll say! No machine is foolproof and at times I am the most maniacal cackling mad scientist fool in the room. :-)
Great to hear from you, Rick. I've tried to keep my humour quotient up to your lofty standards but, well,
Nobody does it better
Makes me feel sad for the rest.
Nobody does it half as good as you
Baby, you're the best.

Dave



Post# 214851 , Reply# 106   1/19/2013 at 19:59 (4,085 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        
Here we go again some more, just can't help myself.

aeoliandave's profile picture
The Electrolux Engineers began working on the prototypes for the LX perhaps as early as 1948/49. By 1950 they were applying for patents of the various mechanisms under development, although, as is the practice the Patent would not be officially granted until 1955, three years after the debut.

Several bag ejecting solutions were tested, such as this scheme to use a 'scissors' rack to thrust and guide the sled forward. Note that at this early juncture the exterior shape of the LX was not locked in.


Post# 214853 , Reply# 107   1/19/2013 at 20:02 (4,085 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        

aeoliandave's profile picture
The pneumatic control had been established and for those who love to read Patent-speak, here is the salient section concerning this action.
I term the 'ejector plate' a sled because it acts like one.


Post# 214855 , Reply# 108   1/19/2013 at 20:05 (4,085 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        

aeoliandave's profile picture
The spring loaded scissors were designed to pull the sled forward while guiding it's trajectory with a geared connection of the arms at one end.



This post was last edited 01/19/2013 at 20:31
Post# 214857 , Reply# 109   1/19/2013 at 20:10 (4,085 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        

aeoliandave's profile picture
Unfortunately the integrated spring proved too weak to push out a heavy full wrapper.

Another means of propulsion was considered - a tempered steel coiled watch spring under the sled (this same principle used in post LX cord-winders to this day).




This post was last edited 01/19/2013 at 20:32
Post# 214858 , Reply# 110   1/19/2013 at 20:10 (4,085 days old) by luxman107 (USA )        

You all are amazing with all these pictures, engineering diagrams ,patents and history. Thanks for posting. This thread is priceless. Thanks

Post# 214859 , Reply# 111   1/19/2013 at 20:11 (4,085 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        

aeoliandave's profile picture
A variation on the coil spring application.

Post# 214862 , Reply# 112   1/19/2013 at 20:24 (4,085 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        

aeoliandave's profile picture
In the end, tho', keeping it simple and less prone to maintenance of the various levers & hinge points it was determined best to use a single rail to guide the sled reliably down the bag chamber.

Even then a more powerful spring was desired.

As highlighted in red, the solution was found in a 4" wide tempered steel band spring folded double and hinge-attached against the sled and back wall fan case. It took up less space than the coil, was reliable for long service and allowed the bag to be larger and the vacuum body to be shorter.
Fully deployed it is the exact length needed to run the sled to it's stops when released negating any further metal fatigue stress at the attachment points.
I have never known one of these band springs to either snap in half or become deformed from decades of folded & cocked inaction. Brilliant engineering.


Post# 214863 , Reply# 113   1/19/2013 at 20:29 (4,085 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        

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The final configuration of the pneumatic system and the exterior sculpture of the LX is locked in.

The tubular rod guide rail is #57 in this cross section.

Dave


Post# 214868 , Reply# 114   1/19/2013 at 20:52 (4,085 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        

aeoliandave's profile picture
This idea from 1945 is too groovy to leave out. Eject the bag with a diverted blast of exhaust.

Here an excerpt from a communication from Alex Taber providing even more food for thought in the early genesis and development of a self-ejecting Dust Wrapper:

"The Jack-in-the-box canister, XXX side ejecting, lofting top (like a cannon) design, the one with the exhaust tube resting atop the main housing, and the one where the housing lifts off the runners, pops the front cover, ejects the wrapper, and unlatches the hose coupling, and the most odd designs that I think the club will find interesting"


Post# 214938 , Reply# 115   1/20/2013 at 12:58 (4,085 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Thank you powermate1970.

caligula's profile picture
All because of a simple question about an Electrolux attatchment, this wonderful thread has just gon on and on. Everything from basic tools to some awesome patents have graced this thread. By now it's clear that I'm not alone in the love of the model LX, and as I have a lot more to share, this thread will continue.

Just wait till I get my book 'Electrolux, the first 40 years 1924 - 1964,' as it's full of info like Sarah the cat.

The 'Companion' is boxed, along with some history on the vacuum cleaner, especially about Electrolux' that I think you'll enjoy.

Once again, thanks for starting this thread.

Robert Alexander Taber


Post# 214939 , Reply# 116   1/20/2013 at 13:11 (4,085 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
'The little tin can with the motor.'

caligula's profile picture
Here's the vacuum cleaner that started it all. The Swedidsh export called the Electro-lux. Today we know it as the model V (5) and it was introduced to American housewives in 1924.

The rest, as they say, is history!


Post# 214944 , Reply# 117   1/20/2013 at 13:34 (4,085 days old) by powermate1970 ()        
Alex, here it is!

I guess we can turn this thread from a 30 to a 60, and beyond! LOL Here is my acquired 60 that I broke the corner on. From reading Dave's comments, I'm going to try to replace the tube and clean out the bleed hole to see if that gets the bag eject working. I'm going into this one kinda blind as I've never actually seen one of these in action, live.

Post# 214945 , Reply# 118   1/20/2013 at 13:35 (4,085 days old) by powermate1970 ()        
and another

backside

Post# 214946 , Reply# 119   1/20/2013 at 13:36 (4,085 days old) by powermate1970 ()        
the break!!!

I'm just so livid with myself over this!!!!

Post# 214947 , Reply# 120   1/20/2013 at 13:38 (4,085 days old) by powermate1970 ()        
inside the door

I don't see an ajustment "knob" that everybody is talking about.

Post# 214969 , Reply# 121   1/20/2013 at 15:31 (4,085 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Hi powermate1970

caligula's profile picture
Sorry about the damage, but if you've saved the broken piece, it can be repired with little notice. There are special glues out there, and while there'll be a deep scratch, the machine will work fine. At it's age, a few dents, scratches and what not are understandable.

The dial is not on the inside of the front cover, but in the part called the diaphram. Stand the cleaner on the cord winder, and look to the right, there should be a dial which reads 'hasten/retard' with an arrow. If it's not there then it is indeed a first generation, like the one shown here.

I noticed the wheels, they were an optional tool that went with the LXI, also the cord winder is in hammertone blue. The original were chrome, and the nameplates are also LXI. However, all this is cosmetic. Why? wheels, cord winder, nameplate are all interchangable, as is the diaphram. Nobody can say for sure if the previous owner didn't change them. I know I have taken a LXI, and turned it into a LX (many times!) Now is there a swivle caster on the bottom? If not, then there should be an oblong space, and roller thingy. This was a special compartment to store 3 wrappers (bags). The swivl caster is another option used with the LXI.

The best way to date the machine is to look at the top piece where the handle is. On the left (same side as the front cover latch) it should read. "Model LX DC to 60 cycles AC 116 Volts 535 Watts UL." If it is indeed a LXI, it will say so here.

There is a way to test the ejection system manualy, but be sure you have your fingers clear of the ejector, and be prepared for a loud BANG! On the left side of the diaphran is a lever, with the front cover open, and the ejector pushed down, ( space for the bag), press that lever upward. If it will not move, then it will need major surgery. (Which means a printout from me) however, if it works correctly, the ejector should pop.

So test the ejector, and let us know how it works. Think I'll email you the printout anyway, so you know the entire process, and how to repair it.

Alex Taber.


Post# 214974 , Reply# 122   1/20/2013 at 16:08 (4,085 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
powermate1970.

caligula's profile picture
Printout was sent, the chip is not that bad. The above picture is from the late 1970's, and is first generation LX with no dial.

The 'Companion' I have for you has the holder for the crevice tool, however, the upholstry tool will need to be up-side-down. Still I think it should work fine. Once it's cleaned up, that LX/LXI should shine like a new penny, and work great. Between Dave and I, we'll see to that.

Alex


Post# 214993 , Reply# 123   1/20/2013 at 18:02 (4,085 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Congratultions powermate1970.

caligula's profile picture
You have a first generation LX! However, the nameplates and cord winder are not original!

Hopefully my emergency room treatment has worked, if not we'll get Dave to work his magic. As I said, we WILL get this LX working in top form.

Keep me posted here and via email.

Alex Taber.


Post# 215012 , Reply# 124   1/20/2013 at 20:11 (4,084 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Powermate1970

caligula's profile picture
Looks like surgery on the Electrolux LX ejector is going fine.

How about pictures from the o.r., and our LX diaphram during the operation.
Glad all is going well.

Alex Taber.


Post# 215160 , Reply# 125   1/21/2013 at 17:15 (4,084 days old) by powermate1970 ()        
well.....not so good

it looks like I may be at a stand still on my model 60 ejector. At least till I can find a part! The spring release pin(?)is froze in the body and it will break off before it comes out in one piece. I doubt I'd ever find the pin new, so now I'm on the hunt for a used pin or a parts machine.

Post# 215165 , Reply# 126   1/21/2013 at 17:24 (4,084 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        
Now that you have the component parts separated...

aeoliandave's profile picture
Before going to all that delay, try soaking the piece overnight in a bowl of Rust release solution from a hardware or autoparts store. It will enter and saturate the corroded areas and make removal almost a sure thing.

Do not soak any Bakelite or plastic parts in rust-breaker. They are best brushed clean with a brass metal-bristled suede brush or abrasive dish pad.

While you're in there, it is also advisable to open up the clear plastic differential 'puck/drum' enclosure - a few screws - and clean out any fine dust accumulation under the rubber diaphragm and in the nipples.

Dave




This post was last edited 01/21/2013 at 18:45
Post# 215181 , Reply# 127   1/21/2013 at 18:49 (4,084 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
powermate1970

caligula's profile picture
Go to Off topic, thread 19312, to read about my days at Kirby.

Alex.

Btw, great conversation.


Post# 215183 , Reply# 128   1/21/2013 at 18:54 (4,084 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
powermate1970

caligula's profile picture
Is this the Electro-Lux you were talking about? It's the model X1 (11) circa 1927, and was made in Sweden.

Alex T.


Post# 215205 , Reply# 129   1/21/2013 at 20:19 (4,083 days old) by powermate1970 ()        
ALEX.....OMG!!!!

YES, YES, YES!!! Thats it. I can still kick myself in the *** for not getting my grubby mitts on it before it went in the trash.LOL

Post# 215222 , Reply# 130   1/21/2013 at 21:48 (4,083 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
powermate1970

caligula's profile picture
Hi my friend:

I'm not sure if this model X1 is in my storage unit back in Indiana, or not. (I might have given it to somebody back in California.) But if it is in there, then it's yours! I plan to go to Indiana in the spring, most likely, in April.

In the previous post with the 'Electrolux wall of fame,' the models are V, X11, XXX, XX (20), LX, E, 1205, and L. The last is a LXI in a cut-away to show how the ejector works.

From 1985 to 1995, club headquarters was located in Naperville, Illinois. In the early days, my collection, which was also the club museum, was located in a spare bedroom. However, by 1993 the collection had outgrown the room, so I converted My 3 car garage, into the museum.



Post# 215230 , Reply# 131   1/21/2013 at 22:03 (4,083 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Powermaye1970

caligula's profile picture
The club museum in Naperville, Illinois, around 1986. Sorry that these are mostly Kirby's, as they don't fit this thread, but it's the only pictire I have. The Electrolux wall of fame as seen in the previous post was on the wall to the right. The models were the V, X1, X11, XXX, XX, LX, LXI, E, T (Thrift model), E, G, 1205, and I think L.

Post# 215282 , Reply# 132   1/22/2013 at 09:43 (4,083 days old) by rugsucker (Elizabethton TN)        
LX bags

There was an ad in Business Week(or similar)from the company that supplied glue and/or paper for the then new 'wrappers'describing the quality of their products that met Elux need for strength when ejected.

Post# 215635 , Reply# 133   1/24/2013 at 15:07 (4,081 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Hi powermate1970.

caligula's profile picture
The Electrolux Companion is on it's way. Bitter cold here, and snow up to my ..., took till today to get the driveway plowed. The truck couldn't make it, (not good on icy roads) but the Suburu Forester did! (That can handle anything!!) I also included several bits of vacuum cleaner history that I wrote back in 2005, and were in my files. As I said, after the trip to Indiana, I'll have all my Electrolux notes, books, instruction books, ads and so on. I really miss the patent books, but that'll have to wait.

I really had a lot of fun chatting about Electrolux, Kenmore, and so on. In my files is a report John Lucia did on the vacuum cleaners in the sears catalougs, starting with the non electric Dust Killer of 1909. (Pictured here.)

Thanks again.

Alex Taber.


Post# 215656 , Reply# 134   1/24/2013 at 16:30 (4,081 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        

aeoliandave's profile picture
Alex, you were already high on my list of fellers I know I'd enjoy meeting in person and having a vacuum gabfest with but now you're shot up even higher in my admiration.

You drive and have a SUBARU!

Woo-hoo.

I'm on my 3 & 4th ones. Since the day I got my first one used years back I've been devoted to the brand.

Compact, entry level luxury, build quality, and then the tenacious mountain goat traction and reliabilitry in winter when outfitted with real Winter tires...

My current vehicles and as I say, 3rd & 4th are a 2006 Newport Blue over Graphite Outback XT turbo wagon and now my mid life crisis/retirement car, the Blackberry (officially Black Pearl with subtle ruby red undertone metalflake) Spaceboy Dreamship 1997 Subaru SVX Luxury Touring Coupe.

I know we have a member in St Louis that drives a Forester and please forgive me I am having a brainfart recalling his name...and I even stayed in his house for a few days. Oh, I am ashamed and embarrassed. :-(

Anyone else here drive Subarus? We should start a thread in Off Topic.

Dave

Photo from 2 days ago while tootling around town by the river in the sub zero weather. Like all Subarus, drives and handles like it's clamped to rails.


Post# 215690 , Reply# 135   1/24/2013 at 19:48 (4,080 days old) by powermate1970 ()        
Model 60 update....

well....I soaked the ejector release pin in penatrating oil for 3 days and it still broke off inside the housing! LOL So I am at a stand still on it till I can locate the pin and mechanism or a parts/donor 60. If anybody happens to have one they would like to sell, give me a shout. Thanks

Post# 215694 , Reply# 136   1/24/2013 at 20:00 (4,080 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Thank you Dave.

caligula's profile picture
Great Suburu. But I can't tell, is that dark blue, or black?

Are you sure we have not met? Seems that I met you at the convention in 2009 that was held in Itasca, Illinois.

Alex Taber.


Post# 215699 , Reply# 137   1/24/2013 at 20:28 (4,080 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        

aeoliandave's profile picture
Alex, the SVX is black pearl with an all leather tan/sand interior. In sunlight there is a metallic undertone of ruby red that shimmers but does not turn the car red. Premium factory 3 stage process that all SVXs had regardless of colors. In 1997 this was a CN$42,000 car. Back then the Canadian dollar was worth about 65 cents American.

Due to work schedules the only Convention I have been able to attend was Minneapolis, since discovering and joining the club in 2007.
I will be in Milwaukee this coming June.

It's a matter that I am a trouble-shooting technical director/crew supervisor attending backstage while the shows are on, at a large 5 stage Repertory summer theatre where I've been employed going on 37 years. It is rarely possible to simply take a week or a few days off from my duties when others are depending on me, particularly as I bargained 9-10 consecutive weeks paid vacation about 10 years ago. Sweet deal I will not tamper with.
But, as I near the retirement years and have a large staff and Minnesota and Wisconsin are a relatively straight line from Stratford across Michigan to the Milwaukee ferry I pulled a few strings and called in flavors to persuade Management that I had earned this perk.
My other major hobby being mechanical Music Machines I have attended a few of their Conventions, also held in a different city every year around June/July but as it is in San Francisco this year, that's out of the question. I will not fly commercially and dang, that's a long drive. :-)

Dave


CLICK HERE TO GO TO aeoliandave's LINK




This post was last edited 01/24/2013 at 20:45
Post# 215703 , Reply# 138   1/24/2013 at 21:05 (4,080 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Vacuun cleaners and musical theater.

caligula's profile picture
Hi Dave, the love of theater and vacuum cleaner history are the two loves of my life. Not only was I blessed in knowing a great deal about vacuum cleaners, I was also privilaged to know at an early age, some of the most promonant people in musical theater. Icon's of the 50's and 60's, and singers of the most sucessfull shows of the time. But the icing on the cake, was that my family knew the real Maria Von Trapp. And yes, she did have an Electrolux!!!

Post# 217448 , Reply# 139   2/3/2013 at 20:43 (4,070 days old) by s31463221 (Frenchburg, KY)        
"New" Electrolux XXX

s31463221's profile picture
I promised Alex Tabor (caligula) some time ago that I would post photos of my latest project. It's not completely finished, but here's what I have so far! I took an old Electrolux XXX that was a complete basket-case, not running, handle broken, metal tarnished/filthy, etc. I decided to completely re-work this machine over and see what I could do to bring new life back into it! I completely disassembled the vacuum and cleaned/sanitized it from one end to the other. I hand polished all of the shiny metal parts until they looked better, installed a brand new Ametek Lamb motor (1300 watts, slightly higher than the original 535 watt motor it had in it!), purchased paper bags to go in it (however I was able to salvage and clean the original cloth bag and after motor filter), bought a new hose for it, new handle and power cord for it, and decided to create a storage box for it.

I know the purists among us will cringe at this idea, but had I not saved this vacuum cleaner and rebuilt it as such, it was headed for a crusher at the dump, so while it may not be a perfect original machine, I am pleased at how it turned out. I'm still working on cleaning/polishing the original chrome accessories/tubes/etc. Thanks to Alex, I now have an air polisher that I will be putting in the box and I'm always on the look-out for XXX vacs and parts. Let me know what you all think! Thanks!


Post# 217449 , Reply# 140   2/3/2013 at 20:48 (4,070 days old) by s31463221 (Frenchburg, KY)        
Owner's Manual

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I have an original owner's manual from 1950, but since I didn't want it damaged, I took the copy of the manual from VacuumLand website and created a "new" owner's manual to include in the box. Here's a close up of it along with some of the history of Electrolux, again thanks to Alex (caligula)!

Post# 217465 , Reply# 141   2/3/2013 at 22:00 (4,070 days old) by caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
New Electrolux XXX

caligula's profile picture
Wow!

The box looks fantastic, so does the XXX. Not only that but I love the coffee table.

The hose you sent is great, the suction is very powerful, now all I need are the wands, but that's a work in progress with another member.

I also like how you have a place for the instruction book.

Alex Taber.


Post# 217692 , Reply# 142   2/5/2013 at 10:01 (4,069 days old) by rugsucker (Elizabethton TN)        
model XXX,LX

The BOX!!!WOW!Any for Mo G?----Powermate1970-Not forgotten your LX.Saw one under XXXs in warehouse.Now to go through snow and cold to get and test.

Post# 365840 , Reply# 143   1/29/2017 at 18:40 (2,615 days old) by crazykirbydude (Lexington, KY)        
Here's mine...

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Here's my Model 30. I have the rug tool and the bakelite sprayer, but they're somewhere in storage. I even have the manual! Any idea what year this is from?!?!

  Photos...       <              >      Photo 1 of 3         View Full Size
Post# 416624 , Reply# 144   11/27/2019 at 14:41 (1,583 days old) by RugPileDial ()        
My first LX...

I went to a neighbors house two days ago (actually my moms neighbor, two doors down from where I grew up) to help her pack for a move and she gave me her LX! My first LX. I was very thankful (appropriate for this time of year) to find the information on this site/thread and to receive a response from founder Mr. R. Alex Taber to my personal email. Thank you to all for such a great and informative website. Thank you, Alex, for the additional information in the form of your article “ The History of the Electrolux Corporation “. I will post more photos after I have cleaned the LX with windex and brasso. All I have done so far is dust it sufficiently to bring it in the house. I did manually test the ejection, it moves freely. I have not plugged it in yet. Happy Thanksgiving, Jeff.

  View Full Size
Post# 416632 , Reply# 145   11/27/2019 at 18:37 (1,583 days old) by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Nice neighbor, great looking Model LX.

caligula's profile picture
Happy Thanksgiving to you too Jeff:

I have very happy memories of the days when all of us were posting hot and heavy on these early Electrolux's. Maybe we can get the experts to work their magic again and help you put this treasure to work for you.

As I suggested, get the instruction book, it will provide a wealth of information .

Alex Taber.


Post# 416636 , Reply# 146   11/27/2019 at 18:57 (1,583 days old) by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Ejector works, yay!!!

caligula's profile picture
Jeff:

May I suggest not going with the Brasso, instead try Mothers polish, it will make the chrome sparkle. And try not to get it on the leatherette. Actually cleaning polishing these are super easy.

Glad to know the ejection system works, no surgery. Now make up a test wrapper (the correct term for the disposable bags of that time).

Attachments and optional tools are easy to find on eBay and I'll see what I can locate for you.

So read the posts here, soak up the info. as this thread has advice from the best minds of both Vacuumland and the V.C.C.C.

Oh, while I think of it. The name Caligula refers to the cat in the pic above. He was the only mascot the V.C.C.C. ever had, and it translates to 'little boots,' for the gold markings on his paws.


Post# 416804 , Reply# 147   12/1/2019 at 21:12 (1,578 days old) by RugPileDial ()        

Auto-sol polish has not given great results on first try...will try Flitz next and then Mother’s.

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Post# 416813 , Reply# 148   12/2/2019 at 00:43 (1,578 days old) by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
These old Electrolux's don't need much polishing,

caligula's profile picture
to have them shine like a new penny. However, I see a slight dent, but once the you have the companion and tools in place that won't be noticed. Have you tested the motor yet? I'm interested to know if the bearings, etc. sound good.

Keep me posted,

Alex.


Post# 416829 , Reply# 149   12/2/2019 at 11:23 (1,578 days old) by RugPileDial ()        
First time power up...

Here’s a link to YouTube video of turning on my “new” Electrolux LX for the first time.

CLICK HERE TO GO TO RugPileDial's LINK


Post# 416832 , Reply# 150   12/2/2019 at 17:56 (1,578 days old) by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Beautiful.

caligula's profile picture
As there is no audio, what does the motor sound like? I'm not talking about the normal Electrolux sound, but rather bad bearings and noises that should not be there. Also, who is the kitty that stopped by to check things out? So cute, what is his/her name? I'm both a cat and dog lover.

Post# 416840 , Reply# 151   12/2/2019 at 21:07 (1,577 days old) by suckolux (Yuba City, CA)        

suckolux's profile picture
It sounded good until some scratchy bearing noise on coast down

Post# 416851 , Reply# 152   12/3/2019 at 01:07 (1,577 days old) by RugPileDial ()        

Should I take it in for service? I’ve got a vac shop three blocks away. Kitty’s name is Cocoa and dogs name is Oscar...will try and see if he’d like to be in upcoming vacuum video! Thanks everyone!

Post# 416858 , Reply# 153   12/3/2019 at 06:22 (1,577 days old) by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Is there supposed to be audio on that vidio?

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I didn't hear anything. For its age approx. 67 years there's bound to be a few odd noises. However, if scratchy noises in the coast down as suckolux said then a have it checked out. Especially if its to be a daily driver as my model LX used to be.

By the way, hugs to Cocoa and Oscar.


Post# 417044 , Reply# 154   12/8/2019 at 09:37 (1,572 days old) by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Sound was off.

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Finally got to hear the motor. Not bad for an Electrolux of that age.

Post# 417188 , Reply# 155   12/12/2019 at 15:08 (1,568 days old) by RugPileDial ()        

The brush bristles on my older (all metal) hard floor brush are worn down to almost nothing. It appears that when the brush is taken out of a later model floor tool it is the same size...and can be installed into the older tool (except I do realize the screw holes are in different positions). My question is: after removing the metal piece which holds the two brush strips, can the brush strips be removed from that? If so I’ll save that piece. And, where would I find brush strips?

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Post# 417189 , Reply# 156   12/12/2019 at 15:44 (1,568 days old) by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Brush strips.

caligula's profile picture
You can use the bristles from any of the Electrolux Rug/floor tool. Both strips are one piece so its easy.

Post# 417191 , Reply# 157   12/12/2019 at 18:50 (1,568 days old) by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Where do you stand on the attachments?

caligula's profile picture
Have you gotten the companion yet? And most important did you download the instruction manual?

I'm eager to see this model LX in all its glory.

Alex Taber.


Post# 417192 , Reply# 158   12/12/2019 at 18:52 (1,568 days old) by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Where do you stand on the attachments?

caligula's profile picture
Have you gotten the companion yet? And most important did you download the instruction manual?

I'm eager to see this model LX in all its glory.

Alex Taber.


Post# 417564 , Reply# 159   12/24/2019 at 21:14 (1,555 days old) by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYBODY.

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Decided to put my all-time favorite vacuum cleaner to work for a final touch-up.

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Post# 418087 , Reply# 160   1/3/2020 at 19:59 (1,545 days old) by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
All parts original. And the ejector still works great.

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And soon a box of the original 'wrappers,' as Electrolux called their filtered disposable bags in 1952, which I just bought on eBay will be added. The motto was "See no dirt, Touch no dirt, Breathe no dirt!" This model LX is 67 years old and still works like a champ. Not ashamed to say its my daily driver.

Post# 418113 , Reply# 161   1/4/2020 at 13:19 (1,545 days old) by Dch112 (Concord, CA)        

How long have you had it? Mine I believe to be a 1954 model. It has the chrome name plate, not the pretty yellow and red like yours. Mine's been in the family since late 60's or very early 70's.

Post# 418116 , Reply# 162   1/4/2020 at 14:02 (1,545 days old) by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
I acquired this Electrolux October of 1985.

caligula's profile picture
But my connection to it goes back to about 1953. This was the very Electrolux I watched eject when I was about two years old. The lady who owned it had her husband send it to me just before or after she died. She told him she always intended it to be mine. And it is my most treasured possession.

When I got it all parts were original except for the plug on the cord winder. But I had several Belden plugs, so I put on a cord winder from a model LXI for this photo shoot, and soldered the Belden plug on the winder. It is all original now.


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Post# 419315 , Reply# 163   1/30/2020 at 11:52 (1,519 days old) by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Display wall is finally ready

caligula's profile picture
Next thing is a major photo shoot.

Post# 430219 , Reply# 164   8/17/2020 at 11:03 (1,319 days old) by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
@Brandon_husky:

caligula's profile picture
This is the thread I was speaking about. Lots of interesting trivia. Pictured here is the post war model XXX with cord winder, Companion (tool holder,) and power polisher.

Enjoy,

Alex Taber.


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Post# 430224 , Reply# 165   8/17/2020 at 11:28 (1,319 days old) by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
@Brandon_husky:

caligula's profile picture
Hi Brandon:

To clear up any confusion on my username, I'm Alex, Caligula was a red seal-point Siamese cat, shown on the chair in my avatar. He was named for the gold fur on his paws, not after the Roman Emperor. Caligula means little boots in Latin. He was the only mascot the Vacuum Cleaner Collector's Club ever had, and was a great host at the annual meetings. Those were held every May, in Naperville, Illinois between 1986 and 1993. Those were fun times.

Alex.


Post# 430225 , Reply# 166   8/17/2020 at 11:39 (1,319 days old) by Brando_husky (Las Vegas Nevada)        

Thanks for the details!

 

Did the prewar tools not have bumpers on them? Mine seem to not have any and just wondering if they disintegrated over the years 


Post# 430228 , Reply# 167   8/17/2020 at 12:09 (1,319 days old) by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Electrolux tools.

caligula's profile picture
Hi Brandon:

You have to remember that these go back 70+ years for the model XXX, and 68 for the LX. The rubber has long since dried out, this is especially true with the hoses. Its virtually impossible to find a hose for these models that holds its suction. I have several tools that have bumpers in good condition, but they still have cracks due to age.

The thread I directed you to will go into all these tools, and show some stunning pictures.


Post# 430491 , Reply# 168   8/23/2020 at 16:11 (1,313 days old) by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Hi VimmCo.

caligula's profile picture
Here is the thread I was referring to, it is a virtual goldmine for those history buffs interested in the of the Electrolux Corporation.

When this thread was first started my files were stored away in another state, over the years I was able to retrieve those files and add additional facts. Granted there is not a lot about the cord winder, but perhaps we can breath new life into this thread and take it a step further. Your model E-Automatic is a great place to start. And this pic will give you a look at the E-Automatic with the halo and the cord wrapped in place.

Alex.


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Post# 431126 , Reply# 169   9/1/2020 at 19:18 (1,304 days old) by Jo (Dallas,TX)        
Last full chrome carpet tool for XXX

I have my Dad’s Mom’s XXX she bought new...it has the latest Series of full chrome Attachments and rug tool with oval top. Clearly this tool was made for flip over use but for the life of me I have no idea what the intended use of the oval side of this carpet tool would be good for cleaning???

Perhaps someone has an XXX manual that shows the intended purpose of using this Oval other side? Maybe for Fine rug fringes or something like that? If someone has a manual showing that, please post a picture of the page explaining this...I’d love to see what they say about that.

Also, I’m looking for a companion for my XXX if anyone has a spare and no use for it. Let me know. Thought this thread might be a good place since it mentions and talks about them much.

Jon


Post# 449364 , Reply# 170   1/19/2022 at 09:27 (799 days old) by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Electrolux polisher for the model LX. .

caligula's profile picture
Hoover3ooo:

Here is the thread on the model LX, and the polisher attachment you sold me


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Post# 449365 , Reply# 171   1/19/2022 at 10:09 (799 days old) by Hoover300 (Kentucky)        

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Sweet, thanks!

Post# 458387 , Reply# 172   12/3/2022 at 01:31 (481 days old) by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
59imperial

caligula's profile picture
Here is what the early model LX looked like when it was new back in 1952. This was given to me by the husband of the lady who got me interested at the age of two, or three. He shipped it to me after she died in 1985. The only change is the cord winder. Hers was missing the Belden plug, so I used this winder from a LXI, the correct winder is on it now.

Chris:

Here's the thread I wanted you to see. Enjoy.

Alex Taber.




Post# 469593 , Reply# 173   2/14/2024 at 09:55 by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Removal of side panels on model LX.

caligula's profile picture
Hi Nick:

While I addressed this in a previous thread I thought you might want some history on the machine you just acquired.

This thread has a wealth of information on all the early Electrolux models and their attachments. I ever offer tips on minor repairs.

Alex Taber.


Post# 469594 , Reply# 174   2/14/2024 at 09:56 by Caligula (Wallingford, Connecticut)        
Removal of side panels on model LX.

caligula's profile picture
Hi Nick:

While I addressed this in a previous thread I thought you might want some history on the machine you just acquired.

This thread has a wealth of information on all the early Electrolux models and their attachments. I ever offer tips on minor repairs.

Alex Taber.



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