Owner’s manual
How do I remove the filter from my CRAFTSMAN wet dry vacuum?
To remove the filter on your Craftsman wet/dry vacuum model 113170370, turn the vac off and unplug it, then remove the filter nut from the screw on the filter cage, lift off the filter plate, and lift the filter straight off for cleaning or replacement (see the 113170370 owner's manual).
Step-by-step: filter removal
- Unplug the wet/dry vacuum and remove the power head (lid) from the drum.
- Locate the filter assembly on the underside of the lid.
- Spin off the filter nut from the screw on the filter cage.
- Remove the filter plate.
- Lift the filter off the cage carefully (avoid crushing the pleats).
- Reinstall in reverse order when finished.
Important usage notes (wet vs. dry pickup)
The filter can be used for wet or dry pickup, but how you use it affects performance.
| Task | Filter installed? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Dry debris and dust | Yes | Protects the motor and prevents dust blow-by |
| Small amounts of liquid | Usually yes | Convenient for light wet pickup |
| Large amounts of liquid | No (recommended) | Prevents saturation and exhaust misting |
Cleaning tips that prevent clogs
- For light dry debris, tap the filter gently inside the drum.
- Clean heavy dust buildup outdoors to keep fine dust out of living areas.
- If rinsing with water, use low pressure so you do not damage the filter media.
- Let the filter dry completely before dry pickup or storage.
- If you need it dry fast, reinstall it and run the vac (no hose attached) for about 10 minutes.
Why it matters
A torn, wet, or clogged filter reduces suction and can let dust escape through the exhaust. Keeping the filter clean and dry helps your Craftsman 113170370 maintain peak performance and protects the blower wheel and motor.
Last updated: February 2026
How to fix a broken vacuum?
If your Craftsman wet/dry vacuum model 113170370 seems “broken,” the fix is usually a clogged or wet filter, a blocked hose, a full drum, or a float shutoff stopping airflow. We recommend a quick safety check, then restoring airflow and verifying the motor runs normally using the steps below.
Safety first (before any troubleshooting)
Unplug the vacuum before you clean the filter, clear a clog, or inspect wiring; this prevents accidental starting and reduces shock risk. Follow the safety and operation guidance in the 113170370 owner’s manual.
- Unplug by gripping the plug, not the cord
- Do not use the vac with a damaged cord, plug, or missing parts
- Keep ventilation openings clear (dust and lint reduce airflow)
- Do not handle the plug or vac with wet hands
- If the vac was dropped, left outdoors, or dropped into water, have it serviced
Quick fixes for the most common “broken” symptoms
1) No suction or weak suction
- Empty the drum; fine dust fills it fast
- Clean the filter; fine dust requires more frequent filter cleaning
- Make sure the filter is seated correctly to prevent leaks
- Check the hose, wands, and nozzle for a blockage
- If the filter is wet, dry it before picking up dry debris (see table below)
2) Motor runs but airflow suddenly stops
This model uses a float mechanism that rises when the drum reaches a set liquid level and cuts off airflow. When that happens, turn the vac off, unplug it, and empty the drum.
3) Poor performance after picking up liquids
- For large liquid pickups, remove the filter to prevent saturation and exhaust misting
- After any liquid pickup, dry the filter to prevent mildew and filter damage
Dry vs. wet pickup setup (what to do)
| Task | Filter position | What to watch for |
|---|---|---|
| Dry debris pickup | Filter installed and dry | Wet filter clogs quickly and is hard to clean |
| Small liquid pickup | Filter can stay installed | Dry the filter afterward |
| Large liquid pickup | Remove filter | Stop when float shuts off airflow; empty drum |
Why it matters
Wet/dry vac “failures” are often airflow protection working as designed (float shutoff) or performance loss from a clogged or wet filter. Correct setup protects the motor and restores suction.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the list of vacuum cleaner parts?
For the Craftsman wet/dry vacuum model 113170370, the parts list is a mix of core vacuum components (motor, drum, hose, filter, cord) plus model-specific accessories like nozzles, wands, and the detachable blower pieces shown in the 113170370 owner’s manual.
Core parts you will see on most wet/dry vacuums
These are the main assemblies that affect suction, safety, and day-to-day use:
- Motor and lid assembly (powerhead)
- Dust drum (tank) and side handles
- Filter (run dry pickup with the filter installed; remove for liquid pickup per the manual)
- Hose and inlet port
- Power cord and cord wrap area
- Casters/wheels and base (mobility)
Accessories and attachments included with this model
The manual’s carton contents list for this 16-gallon Craftsman wet/dry vac includes common cleaning tools plus blower parts:
- Hose
- Extension wands (2)
- Utility nozzle
- Wet nozzle
- Car nozzle
- Crevice tool
- Detachable blower accessories (blower adapter, diffuser, blower nozzle)
- Accessory caddy (storage)
Quick reference: parts vs. attachments
| Category | What it does | Examples on 113170370 |
|---|---|---|
| Core parts | Make the vacuum run and create suction | Motor/lid, drum, filter, hose, cord |
| Attachments | Change how you clean different surfaces | Crevice tool, car nozzle, wet nozzle, utility nozzle |
| Blower pieces | Convert to blowing function | Blower adapter, diffuser, blower nozzle |
Why it matters
Knowing whether you need a core part (like a filter or hose) or an attachment (like a wet nozzle) helps you match the right replacement and use the vac safely. For example, the manual warns not to vacuum flammable liquids or explosive dusts, and not to use the wet/dry vac as a sprayer.
Safety notes that affect “parts” choices
- Use a filter for dry pickup; do not run with a torn filter.
- Do not vacuum burning or smoking items (hot ashes, cigarettes).
- Store indoors; do not expose to rain.
- Do not pick up the whole unit by the detachable blower handle.
Last updated: February 2026
Where to find model number on Craftsman Wet Dry Vac?
On the Craftsman wet/dry vacuum model 113170370, the model and serial number are on the side of the detachable blower (power head) on the identification label. Record both numbers exactly as shown; they are used to match the correct parts list and accessories in the 113170370 owner's manual.
Where to look on the vacuum
- Remove the hose and accessories if they block your view.
- Find the detachable blower (power head) section.
- Check the side of the blower housing for the identification label.
- Look for fields labeled MODEL NO. and Serial Number.
- Wipe dust off the label with a dry cloth so the numbers are readable.
What to write down
Use both identifiers when ordering parts or checking compatibility.
| Identifier | What it does | Example for this vacuum |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Matches the correct parts breakdown | 113170370 |
| Serial number | Identifies the production run for service | Varies by unit |
Why it matters
Craftsman wet/dry vacuums can look similar across sizes and accessory kits. Using the exact model number helps ensure the right fit for items like filters, hoses, nozzles, and detachable blower components.
Last updated: February 2026
