How to Change the Belt on a Shark Vacuum Cleaner

How to Change the Belt on a Shark Vacuum Cleaner
Written By
Chris Deziel
Chris Deziel
Published: Apr 30, 2009
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Newer models include an emergency cutoff that stops the brush if it gets clogged, and the company claims that this feature protects the belt so well that it should last for the life of the appliance. If the belt does break, or you have an older Shark vacuum, replacing the belt is no problem.

Things You Will Need

  • Flat-head or Phillips screwdriver
  • Hairbrush
  • Scissors
  • Pliers
  1. Unplug the vacuum, remove and empty the dust cup, if applicable, and lock the vacuum in the upright position. Lay it flat on the floor so you can access the brush roller.

  2. Remove the screws holding the roller cover, using a flat-head or Phillips screwdriver, depending on the model. The location of the screws depends on the vacuum model, but they are always easy to spot.

  3. Grasp the end of the roller farthest from the belt and angle that end out of the holder. As soon as it's free, remove the other end of the roller. If the old belt is still attached, slip it off the roller, then off the motor shaft.

  4. Clean the brush roll thoroughly, using a hairbrush, scissors and pliers -- if necessary -- to remove old hair and debris. Avoid cutting the bristles.

  5. Slip a new belt around the motor shaft, then slip it around the roller and seat. Grasp the roller at both ends and pull it away from the motor shaft, keeping equal tension on both ends.

  6. Insert the end farthest from the belt partially in the holder in the vacuum head, then pull the other end tight and seat it partially in its holder. When both ends are seated, push them all the way in.

  7. Replace the brush roll cover and secure it with the screws you removed. Set the vacuum upright, plug it in and test the roller.

The Drip Cap

  • Shark is one of the brand names of Euro-Pro Operating LLC, and it includes several vacuum cleaner models.
  • If the old belt is still attached, slip it off the roller, then off the motor shaft.
  • Avoid cutting the bristles.
  • Grasp the roller at both ends and pull it away from the motor shaft, keeping equal tension on both ends.

Photo Credits

Gunnar Pippel/Hemera/Getty Images

Gunnar Pippel/Hemera/Getty Images

Chris Deziel

Chris Deziel has a bachelor's degree in physics and a master's degree in humanities. Besides having an abiding interest in popular science, Deziel has been active in the building and home design trades since 1975. As a landscape builder,…

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