How do I know what shop vac model I have?
For a shop vac like the Craftsman 113179840 (8-gallon wet/dry vacuum), the fastest way to identify your exact model is to find the model number on the rating label, then match that number when you shop parts. If the label is missing, you can still narrow it down by measuring hose size and comparing key features.
Where to look for the model number label
Check these common spots on most wet/dry vacuums:
- On the power head (motor housing) near the switch or cord entry
- On the tank (rear or side)
- On the base/cart near the caster mounts
- Under the top handle area
If you find 113179840, you have the Craftsman model this page supports.
If the label is missing: use fit clues that matter
When the tag is worn off, focus on details that affect part fit:
- Tank capacity (this model is an 8-gallon wet/dry vacuum)
- Hose diameter (many Craftsman accessories are 1-1/4 inch or 2-1/2 inch)
- Hose length and end style (friction fit vs. locking)
- Accessory connection size (tool end diameter)
- Base style (caster layout and wheel type)
A quick, practical test is to confirm whether a 1-1/4 inch accessory set matches your wand and hose end.
Parts on this model page that help confirm what you have
If these parts match what you own, it strongly supports you have Craftsman 113179840 or a very close variant:
| What you’re checking | What should match | Example part on this page |
|---|---|---|
| Hose size | 1-1/4 inch tool-end fit | Wet/dry vacuum hose, 1-1/4-in x 6-ft 551013109 |
| Accessory size | 1-1/4 inch snap/friction fit | Wet/dry vacuum dusting brush, 1-1/4-in 551004116 |
| Adapter option | Steps 1-1/4 inch to 2-1/2 inch | Wet/dry vacuum hose adapter, 1-1/4 to 2-1/2-in 551025121 |
Why it matters
Wet/dry vacuum parts are sized by connection diameter; a small difference (1-1/4 inch vs. 2-1/2 inch) determines whether hoses, nozzles, and brushes seal correctly. Using the correct model number also prevents ordering the wrong caster wheel, hose, or attachments.
Ordering tip
Once you confirm the model number, order replacement parts from the parts list for Craftsman 113179840, or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
Can I use my Craftsman shop vac without a filter?
Yes, but only in limited situations. For your Craftsman 113179840 8-gallon wet/dry vacuum, we only run without a dry filter when picking up liquids; for dry pickup (especially fine dust), a filter is required to protect suction, air quality, and the motor.
When it’s OK vs. not OK
- OK: Wet pickup (water, spills) after removing the dry filter
- Not OK: Dry pickup of fine dust (drywall, sawdust, ash-like debris)
- Risky: Mixed debris where fine dust is present
- Not recommended: Any use where exhaust dust would be a problem indoors
What can go wrong without a filter (dry pickup)
Running dry without filtration lets fine particles pass through the airflow path. That commonly leads to:
- Dust blowing back into the room
- Rapid loss of suction as internal passages load up
- Premature motor wear from abrasive dust
- Overheating from restricted airflow
- Extra cleanup inside the tank and powerhead
Quick setup checklist for wet pickup
- Unplug the vacuum.
- Remove the dry filter (if installed).
- Confirm the tank is empty and seated correctly.
- Use a hose and tool that fit snugly to prevent air leaks.
- Empty the tank before liquid reaches the float shutoff.
| Pickup type | Filter installed? | Best practice |
|---|---|---|
| Wet (liquids) | No (remove dry filter) | Empty often; keep motor section dry |
| Dry, large debris | Yes | Use filtration to keep dust out of the motor |
| Dry, fine dust | Yes (required) | Use the correct filter and clean it regularly |
Why it matters
A wet/dry vacuum depends on controlled airflow for cooling and suction. Using it without a filter during dry pickup turns the vacuum into a dust blower and shortens the life of the motor.
If you need to replace worn accessories that can affect performance, we stock items like the wet/dry vacuum hose, 1-1/4-in x 6-ft 551013109 and the wet/dry vacuum hose adapter, 1-1/4 to 2-1/2-in 551025121. You can also search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the list of vacuum cleaner parts?
For the Craftsman 113179840 8-gallon wet/dry vacuum, the main “parts list” breaks down into airflow parts (hose and adapters), cleaning attachments (nozzles and brushes), and mobility parts (casters). On this model page, we currently list several common accessories and replacement items you can order.
Common wet/dry vacuum parts (and what they do)
- Hose: carries debris and liquid to the tank; cracks and clogs reduce suction
- Hose adapter: lets you connect different hose diameters to tools or ports
- Crevice tool: concentrates suction for tight spaces (cars, corners, baseboards)
- Dusting brush: loosens fine dust on shelves, vents, and trim
- Car nozzle: wider pickup for upholstery and vehicle interiors
- Caster wheel: helps the canister roll; worn casters make the vacuum tip or drag
Parts and accessories available for model 113179840
Here are examples of parts we show for this Craftsman wet/dry vacuum:
| Part type | Example on this model | When you typically replace it |
|---|---|---|
| Hose | Wet/dry vacuum hose, 1-1/4-in x 6-ft 551013109 | Split hose, air leaks, crushed sections, persistent clogs |
| Adapter | Wet/dry vacuum hose adapter, 1-1/4 to 2-1/2-in 551025121 | Loose fit, broken tabs, tool connection issues |
| Attachment | Wet/dry vacuum crevice tool 551012109 | Cracked tip, lost tool, poor pickup in tight areas |
| Mobility | Wet/dry vacuum caster wheel 551009108 | Flat spots, broken stem, vacuum won’t roll smoothly |
How to choose the right replacement part
- Match the model number 113179840 first, then match the part ID
- Confirm the connection size (many accessories here are 1-1/4 inch)
- Replace the hose if you hear hissing (air leak) or see splits
- If suction is weak, check for clogs in the hose and tools before buying parts
- If you are shopping beyond the items listed here, search by model on Sears PartsDirect
Why it matters
Wet/dry vacuums rely on a sealed airflow path. A small hose crack, a loose adapter, or a clogged nozzle can cause a big drop in suction and make the motor work harder than it should.
Last updated: February 2026


