Craftsman 113179800 16-gallon wet/dry vacuum Parts

Yes, but only in limited situations. For your Craftsman 113179800 16-gallon wet/dry vacuum, we run it without a dry filter only for wet pickup (and only if the vacuum is set up for wet use). For dry pickup, running without a filter quickly blows fine dust back into the air and can clog or damage the motor.

When it’s OK (and not OK) to remove the filter

Use this quick rule: wet pickup can be filter-off; dry pickup should be filter-on.

• OK: Picking up water or other liquids (with the vacuum configured for wet pickup)
• OK: Picking up large debris only (short-term), if you accept more dust blow-by
• Not OK: Drywall dust, sawdust, ash, concrete dust, or other fine dust
• Not OK: Any job where indoor air quality matters
• Not OK: Long run times without filtration (higher risk of motor contamination)

What can go wrong without a filter (dry pickup)

Running filter-free during dry pickup causes problems fast:

• Fine dust exits through the exhaust and spreads through the room
• Dust can pack into the motor area and shorten motor life
• Suction drops as internal passages load up with debris
• More frequent clogs in the hose, inlet, and tank ports

Best practice setup (wet vs. dry)

Pickup type	Filter installed?	What to check before starting
Wet pickup	Typically removed	Tank empty, correct wet configuration, no dry dust in hose/tank
Dry pickup	Yes	Filter seated and sealed, hose clear, tank not overfilled

Why it matters

A wet/dry vacuum like the Craftsman 113179800 relies on filtration to keep debris out of the motor and to keep fine particles out of your breathing air. Using the right setup protects suction performance and extends the vacuum’s lifespan.

Getting the right replacement parts

We recommend matching parts to the exact model number (113179800) so the filter style and fit are correct. Start with the parts list for your model; if you need to broaden your search by model number or category, use Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

For a Craftsman wet/dry vacuum, the model number is typically printed on the rating label on the powerhead (motor lid). On your Craftsman 16-gallon wet/dry vacuum, the model number you will use for parts lookup is 113179800; you can search it on Sears PartsDirect.

Where to look on the vacuum

Check these common label locations first (start with the motor lid/powerhead):

• Top motor housing (powerhead): look for a gray or silver sticker/plate
• Near the on/off switch: sometimes the label is close to the switch area
• Back side of the powerhead: rotate the unit and check the rear
• Inside the drum rim: occasionally the label is just under the lid lip
• Bottom of the drum or cart: less common, but worth a quick check

What the model number looks like (and what to write down)

Craftsman wet/dry vac model numbers are often a 9-digit number (sometimes shown with punctuation or extra text). Record the model number exactly as printed.

On the label you might see	What it means	What to do
“MOD”, “MODEL”, or “Model No.”	The model number field	Copy the full number after it
A longer string plus a 9-digit number	The 9-digit number is usually the model	Use the 9-digit model for lookup
Serial number	Production identifier	Not used for most parts searches

Why it matters

Using the exact model number helps us match the correct Craftsman diagrams and compatible parts (filters, hoses, casters, switches, and motor components). Even small model changes can affect fit and electrical connections.

Quick tips for a successful parts search

• Use the full model number (example: 113179800) with no extra words
• If the label is worn, take a clear photo and zoom in to read it
• Search by model first, then narrow by the part category (hose, filter, motor, wheel)

Last updated: February 2026

For the Craftsman 113179800 16-gallon wet/dry vacuum, the “parts list” means the main assemblies that create suction, capture debris, and move air safely. Most wet/dry vacuums use the same core groups of parts, even when the exact part numbers vary by model; you can search by model on Sears PartsDirect.

Common wet/dry vacuum parts you’ll see

These are the components customers most often replace or troubleshoot:

• Motor and fan (impeller) assembly: creates airflow and suction
• Power switch and wiring: turns the vacuum on/off and routes power safely
• Power cord and cord strain relief: supplies power and protects the cord entry point
• Filter (cartridge or foam) and filter cage: traps dust and protects the motor
• Float/cage (wet pickup shutoff): helps prevent water from reaching the motor during wet pickup
• Tank (drum) and lid (motor head): holds debris and seals the airflow path
• Hose, adapters, and wands: carry airflow from the tool to the tank

What each part does (quick reference)

Part group	What it does	Common symptom when it fails
Filter system	Captures dust, protects motor	Low suction, dust blow-by
Hose and fittings	Moves air and debris	Whistling leaks, weak pickup
Motor/fan	Generates suction	No suction, loud noise, burning smell
Float shutoff	Protects motor on wet pickup	Sudden suction loss during wet use

Why it matters

Knowing the part group helps you diagnose faster. For example, low suction is usually a filter restriction, a hose clog, or an air leak at the lid seal, not a “bad motor” right away.

Tips for using a parts list effectively

• Match the model number exactly (113179800) before ordering.
• Identify whether you’re doing dry pickup (cartridge filter) or wet pickup (foam filter or no filter, depending on setup).
• Check for simple issues first: clogged hose, full tank, dirty filter, lid not seated.
• If the vacuum is dead, inspect the cord, switch, and internal connections before assuming the motor failed.

Last updated: February 2026

For your Craftsman model 113179800 16-gallon wet/dry vacuum, the most reliable way to buy the correct replacement parts is to shop by the exact model number and diagram; start with the parts list for this model, then use Sears PartsDirect to search by model number when you need additional Craftsman parts or accessories.

How to make sure you get the right part

Using the model number is the fastest way to avoid ordering the wrong filter, hose, switch, or motor component.

• Confirm the model number is 113179800 (from the data plate on the tank or power head)
• Match the part to the correct diagram section (power head, drum, hose, casters, latches)
• Compare the part description to what you are replacing (size, style, connection type)
• If your vacuum has been updated over time, verify the part fits your specific revision
• Order any related wear items at the same time (seals, clamps, fasteners) to prevent repeat tear-downs

What you typically replace on a 16-gallon wet/dry vacuum

Most repairs on a Craftsman wet/dry vacuum like model 113179800 involve airflow, sealing, or power issues.

Symptom	Common part area	What to check first
Weak suction	Hose, filter, seals	Clogs, filter loading, lid seal seating
Won’t turn on	Switch, cord, motor	Outlet power, cord damage, switch feel/click
Loud or high-pitched noise	Motor/fan area	Debris in impeller area, loose fasteners
Leaks during wet pickup	Gaskets, drain/cap	Cracks, missing seals, loose fittings

Why it matters

Wet/dry vac parts are often similar across sizes, but small differences (hose diameter, latch style, filter mount, switch type) determine fit. Shopping by 113179800 helps ensure the replacement part matches your Craftsman vacuum’s exact configuration.

Helpful DIY tip for parts lookup

If the model tag is hard to read, use how to find your appliance model number (and what it means for parts) to locate and confirm the full model number before ordering.

Last updated: February 2026