I had the same problem. A Kenmore #116.3291590C. Searching back, there are a lot of people with the same problem. I found the solution several pages back and it worked. I copied solution below, if it works for you, find another posting on this site and provide the solution. Just be gentle
"There are 4 phillips screws that hold the housing over the motor. Two are under the hinges that swing the bag cover open. Lift up the bag cover housing and look next to the base of the hinge.
The other two screws are located under the spring-loaded plastic pedal for the cord release. Pop this off by prying a flat-head screwdriver between the case and the pedal. There are 4 tabs along the back side of the pedal connecting it to the housing. Release each tab gently with the screwdriver while pulling the pedal and it should eventually pop out.
Tip over and four screws should fall out and your housing cover will lift right off giving you easy access to the power cord wheel.
Steve
July 2007"
Best of luck to you
Todd, April 2008
