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Small Wonder

My Small Wonder built-in vac is dying.  After running for several minutes, it quits and after cooling down for 10-15 minutes it will run again for several minutes.  I'm guessing it is overheating and has a thermostatic shut-off.  I looked on their website and looks like they've moved on to a dirt devil system.  I was hoping to buy a replacement motor but just looking at the arrangement it would be lots of fun removing it.  I guess I could have the motor rebuilt if I can find an electric motor shop (which should be no problem around the port area where I work).  Anyone have any experience with working on the Small Wonder?  Is it as difficult as it looks?
Dwayne Keith
1992 U240
3116/MD3060

Re: Small Wonder

Reply #1 –
Quote from: Dwayne –
My Small Wonder built-in vac is dying.  After running for several minutes, it quits and after cooling down for 10-15 minutes it will run again for several minutes.  I'm guessing it is overheating and has a thermostatic shut-off.  I looked on their website and looks like they've moved on to a dirt devil system.  I was hoping to buy a replacement motor but just looking at the arrangement it would be lots of fun removing it.  I guess I could have the motor rebuilt if I can find an electric motor shop (which should be no problem around the port area where I work).  Anyone have any experience with working on the Small Wonder?  Is it as difficult as it looks?


This appliance has a THERMAL PROTECTOR built into the motor to prevent overheating. If motor will not operate, it will automatically reset in approximately 1/2 hour.
If motor brushes or bearings are worn out, the circuit protector will trip off again after a short period of time.
If this happens, servicing should be performed by qualified service representative.
The selected media item is not currently available.Barry BEAM #16014
2003 U320 40' AGDS
Beamalarm, Foretravel technical help and specifications
"Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve"

Re: Small Wonder

Reply #2 –
Quote from: Dwayne –
My Small Wonder built-in vac is dying.  After running for several minutes, it quits and after cooling down for 10-15 minutes it will run again for several minutes.  I'm guessing it is overheating and has a thermostatic shut-off.  I looked on their website and looks like they've moved on to a dirt devil system.  I was hoping to buy a replacement motor but just looking at the arrangement it would be lots of fun removing it.  I guess I could have the motor rebuilt if I can find an electric motor shop (which should be no problem around the port area where I work).  Anyone have any experience with working on the Small Wonder?  Is it as difficult as it looks?

Dwayne,

Check for a lint buildup on the air intake for the motor. I discovered that trick on a hair dryer that kept quitting. Pulled the screen, got rid of the lint and it was like new. Restricted cooling air overheats an electric motor pretty fast.
Pierce and Gaylie Stewart
'93 U300/36 WTBI
Detroit 6V-92TA Jake
1140 watts on the roof
SBFD (ret)

Re: Small Wonder

Reply #3 –
Dwayne, The previous owner of mine told me that the Small Wonder had never worked right and had weak suction.
I fished a coat  hanger into the wall outlet and was surprised by the amount of trash that was blocking the tube.  Some of it appeared to be construction type trash.  Works fine now, just have to keep the bags changed.
Gary B

Re: Small Wonder

Reply #4 –
I'll try all of the above.  I did notice that it looked like the secondary filter came apart and perhaps some of it went through.  I'm not sure what lint screen you are talking about Pierce?  Beyone the connection port is the bag compartment and it has the secondary filter over the outlet to the motor held in place by a metal clip.  Is there an exterior vent as with a clothes dryer that has a screen over it?
Dwayne Keith
1992 U240
3116/MD3060

Re: Small Wonder

Reply #5 –
Dwayne,

I was only speaking in generalities. The lint screen was on my hair dryer but the secondary filter you spoke of does the same thing. Gary's post above gets to the issues. Anything that partially blocks the air path will not only make the vacuum weak but heat the motor.
Pierce and Gaylie Stewart
'93 U300/36 WTBI
Detroit 6V-92TA Jake
1140 watts on the roof
SBFD (ret)

Re: Small Wonder

Reply #6 –
Hey Dwayne,

Mine was working ok when I pulled it out recently for a residential fridge install. Not using it, was going to toss it - yours for the cost of shipping. I also bought a dozen bags for it when I first got the coach - no use to me now - I'll put them in the box too. I can send you just the motor or the whole thing. PM me if you're interested.

The hose had numerous splits in it - could not find a replacement that size. The secondary filters are no longer available. I did an extensive online search. No joy. There should be filter materials of some sort that should work, once cut to size. In my coach the unit is under the fridge, exhausting into the battery bay below (I have the booth dinette). Was thinking that in your case, perhaps it's possible some mud daubers or something built a nest in there, which could account for overheating the motor. Not likely, but just a thought.

Steve
1991 U225 Grand Villa

Re: Small Wonder

Reply #7 –
Steve,

Will check it out and might take you up on it.

Thanks,
Dwayne Keith
1992 U240
3116/MD3060