Kenmore vacuum cleaner belt

myminifactory

This is a replacement motor drive cogged belt designed specifically for Sears Kenmore vacuum cleaner power head models featuring Sears part number 20-5285, "Power-Mate Vacuum Cleaner Belt". The belt also fits other similar vacuums, such as Whirlpool units, and can be utilized as a generic cogged belt maker. I grew tired of the belt in my vacuum cleaner power head constantly breaking whenever it got wrapped up around something and having to make a run down to Sears for a new one, which cost $7 and was often sold out anyway. So, I took matters into my own hands and made my own. This has been thoroughly tested and works surprisingly well. I used Makergeeks' ecoFlex PLA filament (I have no connection with them beyond being a satisfied customer). Other flexible filaments may also work effectively. If you use something else, I'd be happy to hear about it. Note that NinjaFlex does not work - it's too stretchy. The Openscad source is included and fully parameterized so you can easily utilize this code to create your own cogged belt for any other purpose. Because flexible filaments can be tricky, I've included my printing recipe in the instructions. Just one thing - this design is intended for non-commercial use only. If I see these appearing on Ebay, I'll be quite upset. UPDATE: 1/22/15 It appears that I spoke too soon. My belt ran well for about an hour total use and then began to stretch out. So, while this design still works, it should only be considered an emergency replacement until you can get a new OEM belt. I will note that official belts have nylon reinforcing threads in them, no doubt for the exact same reason. Bottom line, until we get improved flex filament with better strength properties (or a way to embed reinforcing threads in the belts) this isn't a permanent fix.