How do I know what shop vac model I have?
For a Craftsman wet/dry vacuum like model 113.177890, the model and serial number are typically printed on a label located on the handle. Once you have that model number, you can match the correct diagrams, accessories, and repair parts listed in the owner's manual.
On the Craftsman 113.177890 16-gallon full blowing wet/dry vacuum, start with the handle area first.
- Check the handle for the model and serial number label
- Look for wording like “MODEL NO.” followed by numbers (example: 113.177890)
- Write down both the model number and serial number for future parts matching
- If the label is dirty, wipe it gently so the full number is readable
- If the label is worn, use a flashlight and view it from an angle to make faint print easier to see
You can still narrow it down using identifying features and specs that are commonly tied to a specific wet/dry vac design.
- Tank size (this model is a 16-gallon unit)
- Feature callouts (this model has full blowing capability)
- Hose size and length (many units of this type use a 2-1/2 inch x 7 foot hose)
- Included attachments (common sets include a utility nozzle, wet nozzle, dry nozzle, and extension wands)
- Construction notes (many wet/dry vacs like this are double-insulated, which affects service approach)
| What you find | What it usually tells you |
|---|---|
| Model number on handle | Exact match for parts and diagrams |
| “16 gallon” marking | Confirms capacity class |
| Blowing port on power head | Confirms blower feature |
| 2-1/2 inch hose system | Helps match accessories |
Wet/dry vacuum parts and accessories are sized by model-specific details (hose diameter, nozzle fit, filter cage style). Using the correct model number prevents ordering the wrong filter, hose, or nozzle and helps you follow the right safety and service instructions.
Last updated: February 2026
Where to find model number on Craftsman Wet Dry Vac?
On the Craftsman wet/dry vacuum model 113177890, the model and serial number label is located on the handle. We recommend writing both numbers down so you can match the correct repair parts and accessories for your 16-gallon full blowing wet/dry vac.
Check these spots in order:
- Handle: look for a label that lists MODEL NO. and Serial Number
- Near the top carry handle area where the label is easy to read while standing
- If the label is dusty, wipe it with a dry cloth so the digits are clear
- Record the full model number exactly as shown (including periods or spaces, if present)
For the exact label location and how the model and serial number are referenced, use the 113177890 owner's manual.
Having the correct model number prevents ordering the wrong items, especially for parts that vary by version.
| What you need | Why it matters | Example for this vacuum |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Matches the correct parts breakdown | 113.177890 (often shown as 113177890 online) |
| Serial number | Helps identify production run details | Unique to your unit |
- Shine a flashlight across the label at an angle to make faint printing stand out
- Take a close-up photo and zoom in
- If the label is scratched, look for any remaining digits around MODEL NO.
Craftsman wet/dry vacuums use model-specific components (like the lid, switch, cord, filter cage, and hose size). Using the correct model number keeps your repair and maintenance choices aligned with the exact 16-gallon configuration.
Last updated: February 2026
How do I turn my shop vac into a wet vac?
To use your Craftsman 113177890 as a wet vac, set it up for liquid pickup by removing any dry-use filter or dust bag, using the correct wet pickup nozzle or hose setup, and emptying liquids safely using the drain. Always unplug before emptying and store the vac indoors.
- Remove the paper or cartridge-style dry filter and any dust collection bag before picking up liquids.
- Make sure the float shutoff mechanism is clean and able to move freely so it can stop suction when the drum fills.
- Use the wet nozzle (squeegee-style) on smooth floors for best water pickup.
- Connect the hose to the suction inlet (not the blowing port).
- Keep ventilation openings clear so airflow stays strong during wet pickup.
- Place the wet nozzle on an extension wand and connect the hose.
- Vacuum liquids by dragging the nozzle across the surface so the squeegee helps dry as you pick up water.
- Stop when suction changes or pickup slows; that often means the drum is getting full or the float is closing.
- Unplug the power cord before you empty the drum.
| Method | Best for | What you do |
|---|---|---|
| Drain cap | Frequent liquid emptying | Unscrew the drain cap and lift the opposite side slightly to drain |
| Remove power assembly | Heavy debris mixed with liquid | Release the flexible latches, lift off the power assembly, then dump the drum |
Wet pickup is all about protecting the motor and preventing electric shock. Removing dry filtration, keeping airflow paths open, and emptying the drum before it gets too heavy helps your 16-gallon wet/dry vacuum run safely and maintain strong suction.
For model-specific operating and safety details (including double-insulated servicing notes and wet nozzle use), follow the steps in the owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
Why did Shop Vac stop working?
On the Craftsman 113177890 16-gallon wet/dry vacuum, a “stopped working” complaint is usually caused by a clogged filter or hose, a wet filter packed with dust, or the float shutting off airflow when the drum is full of liquid. Start with airflow checks, then move to power checks.
- Unplug the vac, then remove the hose and look for a clog at the inlet and in the hose.
- Check the filter condition and seating; the filter must be installed correctly for dry pickup.
- If you recently picked up liquids, dry the filter completely before vacuuming dust.
- If suction suddenly stops during liquid pickup, empty the drum; the float can cut off airflow.
- Inspect the cord and plug for damage; do not use the vac with a damaged cord or plug.
| Symptom | Most common cause | What to do first |
|---|---|---|
| Motor runs, weak/no suction | Clogged hose, dirty filter, air leak | Clear blockage; clean/replace filter; reseat lid and hose |
| Motor pitch gets higher, airflow stops | Float shutoff during liquid pickup | Turn off, unplug, empty drum, reset |
| Motor does not run at all | Power issue, switch issue, cord/plug damage | Try a known-good outlet; inspect cord/plug; follow manual safety steps |
For dry materials, we keep the filter installed and dry; a wet filter clogs fast and can feel like the vacuum “quit.” If the filter is wet and you need to pick up dry debris, run the vac with the hose removed for about 10 minutes to help dry it (clean air moving through the unit speeds drying). For large liquid pickups, remove the filter to prevent saturation and exhaust misting, then dry the filter afterward.
This model is designed to protect the motor by restricting airflow when the drum is full (float shutoff) and by requiring proper filtration for dry pickup. Restoring airflow (filter, hose, drum level) solves most performance failures without replacing parts.
For model-specific operating steps and safety instructions (including unplugging before servicing and filter handling), use the 113177890 owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026


