Kirby, Hoover, Electrolux vintage vacuums

Comparing daily use of vintage vaccums. And my modifications to maintain or upgrade them. Models are:
Kirby 561
Hoover Portable 2120
Kirby Tradition 3CB
Electrolux SuperJ w/ Power Nozzle

[@mattjones7621]

The Kirby 561 was built in 1961. It looks like your's has a Classic 1-CR shake-out bag and an aftermarket hose. Very nice machine. The newer plastic fans are an improvement over the aluminum, because they are lighter and more durable. I have the 519 made in 1959 and rebuilt it completely. I like your Tradition, also. The Super J is a great choice for floors and area rugs. I used to have a 1205 many years ago.

[@vap0rtranz]

Small world. I had watched one of your vids awhile ago about how to use shake-out bags. Nice that you rebuilt your 519. Working on these machines is nice and not frustrating. I'm trying to remember how the 1205 was different. My SuperJ is stamped 1401. And yea, I've come to find the cannisters more practical when someone has both hard surfaces and some carpet, like I do.

[@mattjones7621]

@@vap0rtranz There's not really much difference between the 1205 and Super J. They are designed similarly. I am more of an upright guy, but I do like some canisters. I have two Kirbys and a Royal. I don't use the Royal as much, because I mostly have hard floors and area rugs. I mostly toggle between my Kirby Diamond Edition and the 519. The 519 is smaller, lighter and easier to use. I use the hose attachments on my Diamond once or twice a week for crevices I miss or cleaning under narrow furniture. I also have a Dirt Devil hand vac for light messes and animal hair on the furniture.

[@vap0rtranz]

@@mattjones7621 Yea, our older Kirbys are a joy to clean with because they're light and small. And not bad to look at either, hah! I still clean with mine once and awhile.