If you want to open the machine, the two bumpers on either side, that say ELECTROUX (or have a model name) hold the egg shell together. This is the process....
1. remove the bag, leave the bag cover open
2. lay the vacuum on its side on the floor with the bag cover to your right hand side.
3. place screw driver blade flat against the bumper on the opposite end from the bag cover, near the cordwinder cover, strike the screw driver firmly with a hammer, this will unlock the bumper and it will slide off toward the bag end of the machine.
4. turn the vacuum onto the other side, and follow the same process.
5. after both bumpers are removed you can get into the vacuum.
vacfixer, December 2007
