
This DIY repair guide explains how to replace a beater bar cogged drive belt on a canister vacuum's power head, such as the Kenmore PowerMate. The cogged belt meshes with a socket on the beater bar, turning the beater bar when the power head drive motor starts. If the cogged belt is worn or breaks, the beater bar won't turn. Replace a worn or broken cogged drive belt using the manufacturer-approved vacuum part.
This repair procedure also works for common Whirlpool, Panasonic and Miele canister vacuums that use cogged belts.
If the drive belt is ribbed instead of cogged, see our repair guide How to Replace a Vacuum Power Head Ribbed Drive Belt.