Troubleshooting SkyVac Vacuum Systems

Are you experiencing problems with your SkyVac System?

Choose which system you own and see solutions to the most common service issues that operators experience:

Gutter Cleaning

SkyVac Interceptor
SkyVac 85
SkyVac Sonic Atom
SkyVac Mighty Atom

High-Dusting

SkyVac 78
SkyVac 30
SkyVac 27

Other Special Instructions

Changing or Servicing a Drive Belt
Motor Replacement
Replacing the Two Red Knob Drum-to-Cart Clamp
Replacing the Drum Port

SkyVac Interceptor

The Vac Will Not Turn On

Make sure that the gas tank is full and that the proper amount and type of motor oil 10W/30 is in the machine
If the oil needs to be changed here is a popular video from Youtube on how to do it
Properly set the machine to "on" position and make sure the choke is properly set for cold start
If you need help on starting the engine here is a popular video from Youtube on how to do it
It's possible that your air filter or spark plug needs to be changed, especially if you've been using the system for a while
If you've definitively identified that you have an engine problem you can search here for a local Honda engine dealer

The Engine is Running Fine But Suction is Not Great

Have you checked your filter? A clogged filter may be the culprit.
Check your cleaning tool, tool holder, poles and hose for a partial obstruction. Start at the top and work your way down to the machine. Check to make sure the machine is not totally filled with debris and restricting airflow

Please Note: In rare cases customers have experienced a "collapsed filter." This occurs when the filter is not cleaned regularly and becomes clogged, causing the metal mesh walls to weaken and block airflow. If this happens, you will need to replace the filter and reconsider your daily filter cleaning frequency. Dryer climates with finer dust particles are more susceptible to this issue, often unnoticed by the operator.

Total Loss of Suction

It's possible that your system has slipped or broken the belt that sits between the motor and the turbine. Over time the belt absorbs a lot of the heat and vibration from the motor. Also if a machine is jarred too hard or too often it could accelerate the need for a replacement belt. It's located inside the red belt guard located on the side of the machine. If this has happened you can order new belts here. We recommend purchasing two of them, one for replacement and one for backup.
If the unit fills up with water a float inside the filter tower will float up and cover the vacuum intake. This isolates the drum and its contents from water infiltration into the turbine. If this happens you will hear the airflow sound pitch higher and suction will be lost. When this happens, turn off the system as quickly as possible. Although unlikely given the stability of the Interceptor, this condition can also happen if the vacuum tips over while running.
In rare instances some operators forget to turn off the motor while emptying the bin and mistakenly suck debris, a glove or other objects directly into the turbine. Depending on what and how much gets sucked into the turbine, this almost always requires a turbine clean-out, repair or replacement to the system. In this case please contact us. There is a parts + labor charge for this service. It can vary based upon how involved the repair gets. If located within driving range of our facility in NC you could drop it off for repair. If you are outside of driving range you'll have to find a local repair specialist to repair it or freight ship it back to us. Arrangements will need to be made. Normally shipping the entire system is not necessary.

If it's urgent and you've been using your Interceptor successfully for a while and you are considering purchasing a second one. We can make arrangements to ship an additional system to you and you could use the new pallet to send the old one back to us. Please keep in mind you will be responsible for freight charges to and from our facility.

Other Special Instructions:

Changing or Servicing a Drive Belt
Motor Replacement
Replacing the Two Red Knob Drum-to-Cart Clamp
Replacing the Drum Port

SkyVac 85

The Vac Will Not Turn On

Make sure it is completely plugged-in to your generator and that the connection between the vac cord and extension cord (if using one) are connected.
Look for heat damage, loose connection or pulled wires especially at the plug connections. All individual colored wires should be completely covered by the wire's outside black covering.
Check your generator, did it trip a breaker or blow a fuse? It's a best practice to plug your system in while the generator is running and power down & unplug it before you turn your generator off.
It's very unlikely but if you have one of our units with a European 220-240 adaptor plug please contact us to let us know so we can help

The Vac Was Running Fine, Now it Won't Turn Back On

Have you checked your filter? A clogged filter may be the culprit. The vac is cooled by air. Especially on hot days, if your motors aren't getting enough air (filter clogged) it could overheat. The vac is designed with a thermal safety shut-off to prevent it from getting damaged. Take a 30-60 minute break, long enough for everything to cool down and reset. Make sure it's on the light debris setting to maximize airflow.

Specific reasons that trigger the thermal protector

Inadequate air flow from a dirty / clogged air filter. This is the most common culprit. Please clean and remove trapped dirt and debris including its folds. Fine/dry dust clogs quickly. Keep a bucket of water close-by and suck some up frequently to keep the dust down inside the tank.
Less than adequate power supply: A 6500-7000 peak- watt generator capable of supplying 220-240 volts (at 30 amps) is the minimum requirement to run the 3 motor SkyVac system. Operators have told us that even higher wattage improves the vac's performance.
Poor quality extension cable: We recommend 10-gauge cable at no more than 100 ft of length. Lesser quality causes a voltage drop. Coiled extension cables can also reduce voltage drop. Corresponding amperage increases can melt your wiring.
Insufficient electrical connections: Connectors that are not seated properly into all electrical outlets can cause over-heating at the connection site and in the vac head. It's very possible that an improperly seated plug will melt the plug's components. This can short out the electrical wires and cause over-heating.
Dirty hose and connectors: Make sure hoses and connectors are clean of debris. Rinse regularly with water and clean well after each use.
Overuse of heavy debris setting on PowerMix valve: The PowerMix valve reduces airflow to enable stronger water lift (pickup up heavy items out of gutter). The “Heavy Debris” setting should only be used for short duration when extra suction is needed.
Improper operator technique for using the system: As much air flow should be allowed through the system as possible between "bites" of debris. Passing water in through the system periodically will help reduce blockages and increase cooling. This is most important on really hot summer days.

Total Loss of Suction

If the unit fills up with water a float inside the filter tower will float up and cover the vacuum intake. This isolates the drum and its contents from water infiltration. If this happens you will hear the motor RPMs rise and suction will be lost. When this happens, turn off the system as quickly as possible. This condition can also happen if the vacuum tips over while running.

Please note that in rare cases, customers have experienced a "collapsed filter." This occurs when the filter is not cleaned regularly and becomes clogged, causing the metal mesh walls to weaken and block airflow. If this happens, you will need to replace the filter and reconsider your daily cleaning frequency. Dryer climates with finer dust particles are more susceptible to this issue, often unnoticed by the operator.

One (or More) Motors Are Making a Loud Sound or Have Stopped Working

Did you smell burning or see smoke? It's possible that you've shorted wires. If this happens it's likely in the handle section in the top vac head. This will require a repair, possibly a new wire harness.
Did one or more motors stop working? It's possible that the motor has become contaminated with debris from a broken seal in the vac head. This will require a repair, possibly a new replacement motor (s).

If you have determined that it needs a service repair we will provide you with information on how to package and ship the needed component(s) of your system. Shipping the entire system is not necessary.

If this is very urgent then you may want to consider purchasing a new replacement vac head for back-up purposes. We can send you the new vac head and you can return the non-working vac head back to us using the same box. Then we can diagnose and repair it and ship the reconditioned vac head back to you. You will be responsible for shipping costs to and from our facility.

Other Special Instructions:

Motor Replacement
Replacing the Two Red Knob Drum-to-Cart Clamp
Replacing the Drum Port

SkyVac Sonic Atom

The Vac Will Not Turn On

Make sure it is completely plugged-in to your generator or wall outlet (110v) and that the connection between the vac cord and extension cord (if using one) are connected.
Look for heat damage, loose connection or pulled wires especially at the plug connections. All individual colored wires should be completely covered by the wire's outside black covering.
Check your generator, did it trip a breaker or blow a fuse? It's a best practice to plug your system in while the generator is running and power down & unplug it before you turn your generator off.
Did it come unplugged from the wall outlet?

The Vac Was Running Fine, Now it Won't Turn Back On

Have you checked your filter? A clogged filter may be the culprit. The vac is cooled by air. Especially on hot days, if your motors aren't getting enough air (filter clogged) it could overheat. The vac is designed with a thermal safety shut-off to prevent it from getting damaged. Take a 30-60 minute break, long enough for everything to cool down and reset.

Specific reasons that trigger the thermal protector

Inadequate air flow from a dirty / clogged air filter. This is the most common culprit. Please clean and remove trapped dirt and debris including its folds. Fine/dry dust clogs quickly. Keep a bucket of water close-by and suck some up frequently to keep the dust down inside the tank.
Poor quality extension cable: We recommend 10-gauge cable at no more than 100 ft of length. Lesser quality causes a voltage drop. Coiled extension cables can also reduce voltage drop. Corresponding amperage increases can melt your wiring.
Insufficient electrical connections: Connectors that are not seated properly into all electrical outlets can cause over-heating at the connection site and in the vac head. It's very possible that an improperly seated plug will melt the plug's components. This can short out the electrical wires and cause over-heating.
Dirty hose and connectors: Make sure hoses and connectors are clean of debris. Rinse regularly with water and clean well after each use.
Improper operator technique for using the system: As much air flow should be allowed through the system as possible between "bites" of debris. Passing water in through the system periodically will help reduce blockages and increase cooling. This is most important on really hot summer days.

Total Loss of Suction

One (or More) Motors Are Making a Loud Sound or Have Stopped Working

Did you smell burning or see smoke? It's possible that you've shorted wires. If this happens it's likely in the top of the vac head. This will require a repair, possibly a new wire harness.
Did one or more motors stop working? It's possible that the motor has become contaminated with debris from a broken seal in the vac head. This will require a repair, possibly a new replacement motor (s).

Other Special Instructions:

Motor Replacement
Replacing the Two Red Knob Drum-to-Cart Clamp
Replacing the Drum Port

SkyVac Mighty Atom

The Vac Will Not Turn On

Make sure it is completely plugged-in to your generator or wall outlet (110v) and that the connection between the vac cord and extension cord (if using one) are connected.
Look for heat damage, loose connection or pulled wires especially at the plug connections. All individual colored wires should be completely covered by the wire's outside black covering.
Check your generator, did it trip a breaker or blow a fuse? It's a best practice to plug your system in while the generator is running and power down & unplug it before you turn your generator off.
Did it come unplugged from the wall outlet?

The Vac Was Running Fine, Now it Won't Turn Back On

Have you checked your filter? A clogged filter may be the culprit. The vac is cooled by air. Especially on hot days, if your motors aren't getting enough air (filter clogged) it could overheat. The vac is designed with a thermal safety shut-off to prevent it from getting damaged. Take a 30-60 minute break, long enough for everything to cool down and reset.

Specific reasons that trigger the thermal protector

Inadequate air flow from a dirty / clogged air filter. This is the most common culprit. Please clean and remove trapped dirt and debris including its folds. Fine/dry dust clogs quickly. Keep a bucket of water close-by and suck some up frequently to keep the dust down inside the tank.
Poor quality extension cable: We recommend 10-gauge cable at no more than 100 ft of length. Lesser quality causes a voltage drop. Coiled extension cables can also reduce voltage drop. Corresponding amperage increases can melt your wiring.
Insufficient electrical connections: Connectors that are not seated properly into all electrical outlets can cause over-heating at the connection site and in the vac head. It's very possible that an improperly seated plug will melt the plug's components. This can short out the electrical wires and cause over-heating.
Dirty hose and connectors: Make sure hoses and connectors are clean of debris. Rinse regularly with water and clean well after each use.
Improper operator technique for using the system: As much air flow should be allowed through the system as possible between "bites" of debris. Passing water in through the system periodically will help reduce blockages and increase cooling. This is most important on really hot summer days.

Total Loss of Suction

One (or More) Motors Are Making a Loud Sound or Have Stopped Working

Did you smell burning or see smoke? It's possible that you've shorted wires. If this happens it's likely in the top of the vac head. This will require a repair, possibly a new wire harness.
Did one or more motors stop working? It's possible that the motor has become contaminated with debris from a broken seal in the vac head. This will require a repair, possibly a new replacement motor (s).

Other Special Instructions:

Motor Replacement
Replacing the Two Red Knob Drum-to-Cart Clamp
Replacing the Drum Port

SkyVac 78

The Vac Will Not Turn On

Make sure it is completely plugged-in to your power source (120v, 20 amp outlet) and that the connection between the vac cord and extension cord (if using one) are connected.
Look for heat damage, loose connection or pulled wires especially at the plug connections. All individual colored wires should be completely covered by the wire's outside black covering.
Check your generator or wall outlet, did it trip a breaker or blow a fuse? It's a best practice to plug your system in while the generator is running and power down & unplug it before you turn your generator off.

The Vac Was Running Fine, Now it Won't Turn Back On

Have you checked your dust bag and filter? A full dust bag and clogged filter may be the culprit. The vac is cooled by air. Especially on hot days, if your motors aren't getting enough air (bag and/or filter clogged) it could overheat. The vac is designed with a thermal safety shut-off to prevent it from getting damaged. Take a 30-60 minute break, long enough for everything to cool down and reset. If your system has a PowerMix valve make sure it's on the light debris setting to maximize airflow.

Specific reasons that trigger the thermal protector

Dust bags not being used. Dust bags are required. If you don’t use them then the filter clogs prematurely.
Inadequate air flow from a dirty / clogged air filter. This is the most common culprit. Please clean and remove trapped dirt and debris including its folds. Fine/dry dust clogs quickly. Keep a bucket of water close-by and suck some up frequently to keep the dust down inside the tank.
Poor quality extension cable: We recommend 10-gauge cable at no more than 100 ft of length. Lesser quality causes a voltage drop. Coiled extension cables can also reduce voltage drop. Corresponding amperage increases can melt your wiring.
Insufficient electrical connections: Connectors that are not seated properly into all electrical outlets can cause over-heating at the connection site and in the vac head. It's very possible that an improperly seated plug will melt the plug's components. This can short out the electrical wires and cause over-heating.
Dirty hose and connectors: Make sure hoses and connectors are clean of debris. Rinse regularly with water and clean well after each use.
Overuse of heavy debris setting on PowerMix valve: The PowerMix valve reduces airflow to enable stronger water lift (pickup up heavy items, not typical with high-dusting). The “Heavy Debris” setting should only be used for short duration when extra suction is needed.

Total Loss of Suction

The system can handle water but you must first remove the dust bag. If the unit fills up with water a float inside the filter tower will float up and cover the vacuum intake. This isolates the drum and its contents from water infiltration. If this happens you will hear the motor RPMs rise and suction will be lost. When this happens, turn off the system as quickly as possible. This condition can also happen if the vacuum tips over while running.

One (or More) Motors Are Making a Loud Sound or Have Stopped Working

Did you smell burning or see smoke? It's possible that you've shorted wires. If this happens it's likely in the handle section in the top vac head. This will require a repair, possibly a new wire harness.
Did one or more motors stop working? It's possible that the motor has become contaminated with debris from a broken seal in the vac head. This will require a repair, possibly a new replacement motor (s).

Other Special Instructions:

Motor Replacement
Replacing the Two Red Knob Drum-to-Cart Clamp
Replacing the Drum Port

SkyVac 30

The Vac Will Not Turn On

Make sure it is completely plugged-in to your power source (120v, 15 amp outlet) and that the connection between the vac cord and extension cord (if using one) are connected.
Look for heat damage, loose connection or pulled wires especially at the plug connections. All individual colored wires should be completely covered by the wire's outside black covering.
Check your generator or wall outlet, did it trip a breaker or blow a fuse? It's a best practice to plug your system in while the generator is running and power down & unplug it before you turn your generator off.

The Vac Was Running Fine, Now it Won't Turn Back On

Have you checked your dust bag and filter? A full dust bag and clogged filter may be the culprit. The vac is cooled by air. Especially on hot days, if your motors aren't getting enough air (bag and/or filter clogged) it could overheat. The vac is designed with a thermal safety shut-off to prevent it from getting damaged. Take a 30-60 minute break, long enough for everything to cool down and reset. If your system has a PowerMix valve make sure it's on the light debris setting to maximize airflow.

Specific reasons that trigger the thermal protector

Dust bags not being used. Dust bags are required. If you don’t use them then the filter clogs prematurely.
Inadequate air flow from a dirty / clogged air filter. This is the most common culprit. Please clean and remove trapped dirt and debris including its folds. Fine/dry dust clogs quickly. Keep a bucket of water close-by and suck some up frequently to keep the dust down inside the tank.
Poor quality extension cable: We recommend 10-gauge cable at no more than 100 ft of length. Lesser quality causes a voltage drop. Coiled extension cables can also reduce voltage drop. Corresponding amperage increases can melt your wiring.
Insufficient electrical connections: Connectors that are not seated properly into all electrical outlets can cause over-heating at the connection site and in the vac head. It's very possible that an improperly seated plug will melt the plug's components. This can short out the electrical wires and cause over-heating.
Dirty hose and connectors: Make sure hoses and connectors are clean of debris. Rinse regularly with water and clean well after each use.

Total Loss of Suction

One (or More) Motors Are Making a Loud Sound or Have Stopped Working

Did you smell burning or see smoke? It's possible that you've shorted wires. If this happens it's likely in the handle section in the top vac head. This will require a repair, possibly a new wire harness.
Did one or more motors stop working? It's possible that the motor has become contaminated with debris from a broken seal in the vac head. This will require a repair, possibly a new replacement motor (s).

Other Special Instructions:

Motor Replacement
Replacing the Two Red Knob Drum-to-Cart Clamp
Replacing the Drum Port

SkyVac 27

The Vac Will Not Turn On

Make sure it is completely plugged-in to your power source (120v, 15 amp outlet) and that the connection between the vac cord and extension cord (if using one) are connected.
Look for heat damage, loose connection or pulled wires especially at the plug connections. All individual colored wires should be completely covered by the wire's outside black covering.
Check your generator or wall outlet, did it trip a breaker or blow a fuse? It's a best practice to plug your system in while the generator is running and power down & unplug it before you turn your generator off.

The Vac Was Running Fine, Now it Won't Turn Back On

Have you checked your dust bag and filter? A full dust bag and clogged filter may be the culprit. The vac is cooled by air. Especially on hot days, if your motors aren't getting enough air (bag and/or filter clogged) it could overheat. The vac is designed with a thermal safety shut-off to prevent it from getting damaged. Take a 30-60 minute break, long enough for everything to cool down and reset. If your system has a PowerMix valve make sure it's on the light debris setting to maximize airflow.

Specific reasons that trigger the thermal protector

Dust bags not being used. Dust bags are required. If you don’t use them then the filter clogs prematurely.
Inadequate air flow from a dirty / clogged air filter. This is the most common culprit. Please clean and remove trapped dirt and debris including its folds. Fine/dry dust clogs quickly. Keep a bucket of water close-by and suck some up frequently to keep the dust down inside the tank.
Poor quality extension cable: We recommend 10 gauge cable at no more than 100 ft of length. Lesser quality causes a voltage drop. Coiled extension cables can also reduce voltage drop. Corresponding amperage increases can melt your wiring.
Insufficient electrical connections: Connectors that are not seated properly into all electrical outlets can cause over-heating at the connection site and in the vac head. It's very possible that an improperly seated plug will melt the plug's components. This can short out the electrical wires and cause over-heating.
Dirty hose and connectors: Make sure hoses and connectors are clean of debris. Rinse regularly with water and clean well after each use.

Total Loss of Suction

The Motor is Making a Loud Sound or Have Stopped Working

Did you smell burning or see smoke? It's possible that you've shorted wires. If this happens it's likely in the handle section in the top vac head. This will require a repair, possibly a new wire harness.
Did the motor stop working? It's possible that the motor has become contaminated with debris from a broken seal in the vac head. This will require a repair, possibly a new replacement motor (s).

Other Special Instructions:

Motor Replacement
Replacing the Two Red Knob Drum-to-Cart Clamp
Replacing the Drum Port

Changing or Servicing an Interceptor Drive Belt

Do you need to replace the drive belt on your SkyVac Interceptor?

Follow these steps:

Remove spark plug cap before servicing

Undo the belt guard 5mm A/F hex screws until they can be pulled partially out (they are captive)

Release tension to remove the belt. Turn belt tensioner lock nuts clockwise until the belt can be rolled off (these two bolts and nuts are only on the right side of the machine)
Reverse these steps to install the new drive belt

Instructions for servicing an existing SkyVac Interceptor drive belt

Please Note: A 5mm Allen wrench is needed to back out the two mounting bolts on the face of the belt cover. Once loose (they do not completely come out) pull the rod cover off the unit to expose the drive belt.

Inspecting the belt & pulleys and replacing the belt

Please Note: We suggest tightening the belt to achieve a 1/4 to 3/8" moderate deflection

Release the belt tension by turning the nuts only on the bolts holding the engine mounting plate above the turbine on the right-hand side of the unit. This will let the engine lower, decreasing the distance between the two pulleys and reducing the tension on the belt. (When installing the belt the procedure is the reverse.)
Slide the top pulley. Now that the belt is loose try to slide the top pulley ( on the engine crankshaft) in or out. If it moves it is likely that it has come loose and will need to be tightened down after the next step.
Check the pulley alignment. The upper and lower pulleys should be aligned with each other to assure proper belt tracking. To check the alignment simply use a straight edge and place it on the face of the upper pulley so it contacts the face of the outer area of the pulley. The other end of the straight edge needs to extend down to the outer edge face of the lower pulley too. These two surfaces should be even with each other as much as possible. If they are not, proceed to the next step for adjustment.
Aligning the pulleys. Loosen and secure the upper pulley to the crankshaft. The pulley is a two-part system. It consists of an inter hub surrounded by the pulley itself. The two are connected by each other by their tapered design and two Allen bolts. There are three threaded holes in the face of the pulley inline with the separation between the two sections. Looking at the pulley face on with these bolt holes in the 9:00 , 12:00 and 3:00 positions you will notice the 12:00 hole is empty. That is correct during operation. The 12:00 hole is actually there to be used when loosening the pulley. To do that first you loosen both bolts in the 9 and 3 o'clock position. Then remove one of those bolts completely and insert it into the 12:00 potion and tighten. This will separate the two parts allowing the center hub to loosen from the crankshaft. To tighten it in the proper position simply put both bolts in their 9 and 3 o'clock position and tighten firmly. (Tightening and loosening may be easier if you leave the loosened belt in position, compressing it together to keep the pulley from turning.)

Please contact us if you have any further questions.

Motor Replacement

Are you needing to replace the electric motor(s) on your SkyVac? Please read the following Notices:

Important Safety Notice: Only those familiar with safe appliance repair practices should handle this equipment. Mishandling or incorrect assembly of electrical appliances can be dangerous and result in property damage, injuries, or even death. Clean Direct Inc / SkyVac will NOT be responsible for any damage, injuries or death associated or as a direct result of owner installed motors or repairs.

Important Warranty Notice: We do not warranty any DIY repairs.

Important Notice About Pictures Below: Please note that the provided photos serve as a visual aid and may not exactly match your specific model. The basic guidelines are the same for each system but there may be nuances specific to each model.

Important, Please Note: Wiring references below for the SkyVac 85 are based on a Jan 2021 model and notes refer to an April 2021 model. Over the years models are produced with slightly different features and wiring configurations. Some photos depict the SkyVac78 model which shares design elements with the SkyVac 85 but operates at different voltage and wiring. Compare this document with your model and note any differences in wiring or components.

It's very important that you take ample photos before and during your disassembly.

If you are needing to purchase replacement motors, please click here. Please make sure you select the appropriate motor to suit your system.

To Replace the Motors:

Unplug the vacuum from power supply
Repairs are done from the top down. Do not remove the vac head's base plate on the bottom; there is no access to the motors from the bottom. OK to remove four screws that hold the filter tree in place. Removing it helps with handling the unit on a work bench or table
Remove the six Phillips head screws from the handle, bag and label them
Lift up the handle at the smaller end, hinging it on the power cord, then slide the power cord through the rubber or plastic grommet in the handle base. Slide handle down the cord out of your way

Take a photo of the wire connections at the power terminal block (like this one). This is where the power cord connects with the machine's wires. The photo will be helpful upon reassembling the unit, making sure wires are in the same configuration.

Remove the wires with the connectors from the power terminal block. Use needle nose pliers and make sure to depress the nub at the base of the connector to release it from the power terminal blocks' contact blades. Warning: If you don't press the nubs to release the lock you risk breaking the connector or blade
Leave the power cord connected
Remove six screws holding the case cover to the vac head. Please Note: Pay special attention to which size screw came from each hole. Bag and tag as needed for future reassembly

Take a Sharpie pen and number the inside of the case cover next to each switch/wire connection for reference.
Label each wire to the corresponding number with tape. You'll need to reassemble them and they must match
Disconnect the switch wires. Remove the insulator foam and chimney components and set aside. Place them on top of the upper case as a reminder to install them at the proper time during reassembly

Reminder: Take photos at each step of the disassembly!

Remove motor cover screws including those around the perimeter and three near the center. Bag and label for future reference
Lift the motor cover off while simultaneously feeding the wires to the motors through the vent openings in the motor cover. You may have to snip a zip tie or two in the process
Lift off the cover
Note the location and placement of the vent chimney components through the foam over the motor(s) located in the lower section of the unit. Marking the location on the foam with a Sharpie pen before removing it might also help as a reference later

Remove the motor retaining case screws along the outside edge. One will have the ground machine screw and wire as shown. Please note: This screw has to go back into the same position because it's a special type of thread with a special fastener nut and provides the electrical ground connection for the metal debris drum

Remove the upper motor which is set in place in rubber gasket rings top and bottom of the fan unit portion of the motor unit.
If gaskets are good then set them to the side or if bad they will need to be replaced.
If replacing gaskets, remove the wires from the motor. Caution: the wire connects have a lock numb that has to be pinched as previously described
Remove the lower motor(s) as needed for replacement. The SkyVac 78 has one lower motor, the SkyVac 85 has two lower motors
The motor fan units use rubber gaskets top and bottom of each unit. They also have foam tape applied around them. Replacement foam tape is similar to weather stripping found at most home improvement stores. Take a sample from your machine to the store and match similar size and replace as needed
Thoroughly clean up the the casings, motors, etc before moving into reassembly
Reassembly is exactly opposite of the disassembly sequence

As a do-it-yourselfer, if these instructions seem too complex consider hiring a local appliance or vacuum repair company in your area to help you complete the repair.

If you decide to order a new replacement vac head you can purchase one here. We normally have each type in stock and offer expedited shipping if needed. Please contact us if you need further assistance or have any questions.

Replacing the Two Red Knob Drum-to-Cart Clamp

Simple to replace. Order a new one here.

Keep your original screws and spacers so that you can remount the new clamp.

Remove the vac head. Using a Phillips Head screwdriver simply unscrew the 4 screws inside the drum to remove the clamp and then replace it with the new one.

Replacing the Drum Port

It’s very uncommon to need to replace drum ports on SkyVacs; however, the most common would be the SkyVac Mighty Atom or SkyVac Sonic Atom because they are made of plastic vs. metal like the SV85 & Interceptor.

Simple to replace. For Atoms place an order for a new one here.

Keep your original screws and spacers so that you can remount the new drum port.

Simply unscrew the screws inside the drum and swap out the old for the new.

If the red button is broken, you’ll need to replace the whole assembly.