What is the list of vacuum cleaner parts?
For the Craftsman 113178061 12-gallon wet/dry vacuum, the parts list typically includes the powerhead (motor and switch), filtration parts, the tank and latches, and the hose and attachments. Exact part names can vary by production run, but the component groups stay consistent.
Common parts you will see on this model type
- Motor and fan (inside the powerhead)
- On/off switch and power cord
- Filter (cartridge style) and any filter retainer or cage
- Float/shutoff for wet pickup (helps prevent overfilling)
- Tank (drum), lid, latches, and seals or gaskets
- Hose, wands, and nozzles (utility nozzle, crevice tool)
How to use the parts list to pick the right replacement
We recommend matching parts by model number 113178061 and by the part’s location on the vacuum.
| What you are replacing | What to match | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Filter | Diameter, height, mounting style | Prevents dust bypass and protects the motor |
| Hose/attachments | Hose diameter and end style | Ensures a tight fit and good suction |
| Switch/cord | Electrical rating and connector style | Helps avoid overheating and intermittent power |
Quick checks before ordering
- Confirm the model tag reads 113178061 (not a similar 113-series number)
- Identify whether you are using it for dry pickup, wet pickup, or both
- Compare the old part’s measurements (hose diameter, filter height, latch style)
- Inspect seals and gaskets if you have low suction
Why it matters
Wet/dry vacuums rely on correct filtration and airtight connections. A mismatched filter, hose, or seal can reduce suction, let fine dust reach the motor, or cause messy leaks during wet pickup.
For help confirming the exact model identification details before selecting parts, use how to find your appliance model number (and what it means for parts).
Last updated: January 2026
Where is the model number on my CRAFTSMAN Wet Dry Vac?
On the Craftsman wet/dry vacuum model 113178061, the model number is typically printed on a rating label (sticker) on the powerhead area; most often you will find it on the lid/top motor housing. Use that exact model number to match the correct 12-gallon wet/dry vacuum parts.
Where to look on the vacuum
Check these common label locations first (in order):
- On the lid/top motor housing near the handle or cord wrap
- On the side of the powerhead (the motor section that lifts off the tank)
- Near the switch area on the powerhead
- On the rear of the powerhead close to the cord entry
- Less commonly, on the outside of the tank near the upper rim
What the label looks like (and what to copy)
The label is usually a small silver or gray sticker with multiple fields. For parts lookup, copy:
- Model number: 113178061
- Serial number: if shown (helps confirm production run)
- Electrical rating: volts/amps (useful when diagnosing power issues)
| Label field | What it means | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model | Identifies the exact vacuum design | Ensures parts fit correctly |
| Serial | Identifies the production unit | Helps confirm compatible revisions |
| Electrical rating | Power requirements | Helps with troubleshooting and safety |
Why it matters
Craftsman wet/dry vacuums can look similar across different model numbers, but hoses, filters, latches, and powerhead components can vary. Using 113178061 helps us narrow to the correct diagrams and replacement parts.
Helpful reference
If you are having trouble locating the label, follow the general steps in how to find your appliance model number (and what it means for parts).
Last updated: January 2026
How to fix a broken vacuum?
For the Craftsman 113178061 12-gallon wet/dry vacuum, most “broken” symptoms come from airflow restrictions, a poor lid-to-tank seal, or an electrical issue (cord, switch, motor). We start by restoring airflow (filter, hose, ports), then verify sealing, then test power safely.
Step-by-step checks (most common fixes first)
- Unplug the vacuum and remove the hose and accessories.
- Empty the tank and clean out debris around the inlet and inside the tank.
- Check the filter: a clogged or wet filter can kill suction; clean or replace it as needed.
- Clear hose and wand blockages: push a broom handle through, then shake out debris.
- Inspect the lid seal and latches: if the lid is not seated evenly, suction drops fast.
- Listen for motor sound: if the motor runs but suction is weak, it is usually airflow or sealing.
If it will not turn on
- Try a different outlet (avoid a tripped GFCI).
- Inspect the power cord for cuts, loose prongs, or heat damage.
- If your model uses a resettable protector, let it cool 15 to 30 minutes and retry.
- If you have a multimeter, test the cord and switch for continuity.
Use these guides for safe electrical checks: how to tell if a fuse is blown and how to use a multimeter to test electrical parts video.
Symptom-to-cause quick guide
| Symptom | Most likely cause | What we do first |
|---|---|---|
| Runs, low suction | Clogged filter or hose, lid leak | Clean filter, clear hose, reseat lid |
| Loud pitch change | Blockage or filter fully loaded | Remove blockage, replace filter |
| Won’t start | Outlet/GFCI, cord, switch, motor | Verify outlet, inspect cord, test switch |
| Shuts off quickly | Overheating from restriction | Clear restriction, cool down, retry |
Why it matters
A wet/dry vacuum depends on sealed airflow. Even a small leak at the lid gasket or a partially clogged filter can make the Craftsman 113178061 feel “dead” even when the motor is fine.
Last updated: January 2026
Why did my wet dry vac stop working?
If your Craftsman 113178061 12-gallon wet/dry vacuum stopped working, the most common causes are a dead power source, a tripped internal thermal protector from overheating, a clogged filter or hose restricting airflow, or a failed switch, cord, or motor. Start with quick power and airflow checks before testing electrical parts.
Quick checks first (no tools)
- Confirm the outlet works by plugging in a lamp or another tool.
- Reset any tripped breaker or GFCI outlet.
- Unplug the vac for 15 to 30 minutes; many wet/dry vacs shut off when overheated and restart after cooling.
- Empty the tank; a full tank can reduce airflow and increase heat.
- Check for a clog in the hose, wand, or inlet.
- Inspect the filter; a packed filter can choke airflow and trigger overheating.
Electrical checks (unplug first)
If the outlet is good and the vac will not run at all, the issue is often in the power path (cord, switch, wiring) or the motor.
- Inspect the power cord and plug for cuts, melted spots, or loose prongs.
- Check that the switch feels normal (not loose, stuck, or gritty).
- Smell for a burnt odor near the motor housing (can indicate motor failure).
- If you have a multimeter, test continuity through the cord and switch.
For safe testing basics, we recommend how to use a multimeter to test electrical parts video.
What the symptoms usually mean
| Symptom | Most likely cause | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Completely dead | Outlet/GFCI, cord, switch, motor | Verify outlet, inspect cord, test switch |
| Runs then stops | Overheating from clog/filter, thermal protector | Let cool, clear clogs, clean/replace filter |
| Hums but won’t start | Jammed fan/impeller, failing motor | Unplug, check for obstruction, consider motor service |
| Intermittent power | Loose connection, failing switch, damaged cord | Wiggle-test cord (unplugged), test continuity |
Why it matters
A wet/dry vacuum relies on airflow to cool the motor. A clogged filter or hose can overheat the motor, shorten motor life, and cause repeated shutdowns. Catching airflow problems early can prevent a more expensive motor replacement.
Last updated: January 2026
