Cylinder cleaners part 3

Cord rewinds

Cord rewinds are now found on all types of cleaners, from simple hand-operated versions to the fully automatic rewind at the touch of a button. Many auto cord rewind systems use open coil springs and great care should be exercised if a stripdown of these systems is called for. Protection for the eyes is recommended. Goggles afford adequate protection from the spring itself or any item that it may throw out in the event of its slipping from position.

Operation of the cord rewind relies on tensioning of the rewind spring as the cord is pulled out for use. A small brake pad prevents the immediate return of the spring and cord drum to its original position. When the rewind button or lever is pressed, the brake is released and the drum is rotated by the spring, pulling in the cord as it does so. To ensure that all the cord is returned to the drum, the spring has a degree of tension left at the end of the cord travel (usually four turns). This is why you should take care when removing or servicing this item. The main reason why you will need to gain access to or remove the cord rewind is to renew a damaged cable which is common at the entry point of the cable on the drum centre.

A suitable replacement flex must be obtained. It must be sufficiently flexible to coil easily on to the drum and the same length as the one that is being replaced. Ensure all cord grips are fitted correctly and that the moving contact points are not bent or damaged. Renew any burnt or damaged rings or contacts. Remember to note the positions of all items at each stage of the stripdown.

`Bag full’ indicators

Found mainly on cylinder models, the ‘bag full’ indicator ought to be a useful device. Unfortunately, all too often it is ignored and eventually it fails, sticking and giving an inaccurate indication.

The visual indicator operates by moving a coloured piston/slide against a spring. The bag indicator unit has a small bleed hole or slot that allows air into the compartment via the slide/piston unit. In normal circumstances, air is easily drawn in through the bag and hose. When these are choked or blocked, thus producing a greater vacuum in the compartment, more air is pulled through the indicator inlet. The increase in air movement progressively pushes on the piston/slide overcoming the resistance of the spring, giving an indication of the degree of blockage or how nearly full the bag is.

Problems arise if dirt is drawn into the bleed hole or slot and jams the piston or slide, resulting in a false reading. With care, most can be easily removed for cleaning. Ensure that all parts are free to move. Testing is quite simple. With the machine in its normal state and ready for use (hose connected, no attachments fitted), turn the cleaner on and intermittently cover the end of the hose with the palm of your hand while observing the indicator window. The indicator should move across from one side to the other as your hand first covers, then uncovers the open end of the hose. There are some variations, but the basic principle is the same. Carry out this simple test regularly in order to check that the indicator is working correctly.

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