This reel is on the majority of Kenmore canister vacs. I have taken the machine apart to access the ree♠l but there is the spring loaded arm that is shaped like a "U" that prevents one from winding the cord onto the reel. How in the heck does this "U" come off? Next, which direction do you wind the cord onto the reel? Clockwise or counter clock wise?
I have checked with Sears and there is not a manual available for my model, 116-2645086. The vac works beautifully and I would be so grateful to be able to fix this one problem. Thanks for listening

laurie, May 2010