Model C closely resembled the Scott and Fetzer sanitation system. However, it did come equipped with a brand new rug nozzle and a convenient toe-touch control system, which added to its user-friendly design.
One notable feature of the rug nozzle was a belt cover dial ( please see pic.) that was released by turning it 3/4″ to the right. it was swapped for a decorative brass cap in production . This cap, adorned with the iconic Kirby logo in striking red and black stripes, could be easily removed to attach the belt onto the motor shaft. Additionally, the rear axle of the vacuum was a separate curved metal piece securely attached to the motor housing like its predecessor the S&F Sanitation system .
*Note: The nozzle belt lifter hole in this model was a perfect circle with no notches.
The fan casing boasted a sharp edge and proudly displayed the Kirby brass model ID plate on top. The trim surrounding the nozzle was made of durable black rubber. All four wheels were the same size two rear wheels were permanently fastened to the back piece, while the front wheels were secured with screws and washers. All wheels were crafted from black vulcanized rubber.
The handle of the model C featured a sturdy metal fork, with a middle section made of painted black wood. The top of the handle was made of metal, providing a comfortable grip thanks to the black vulcanized rubber coating. The electric cord, made of resilient black rubber, was equipped with a metal clip. Unlike later models, the cord could slide freely in the clip, offering enhanced flexibility during use.
The bag of the model C was crafted from a canvas-like fabric, featuring a subtle yet elegant pattern of light and dark black vertical stripes. The bag’s painted logo consisted of a solid gold circle with two parallel solid gold stripes. The Kirby name was meticulously painted in thin red and gold lettering over the circle.
To ensure a secure seal, the top of the bag was fastened with a sturdy metal clamp, which connected to the handle via a reliable chain. The “Sani-Em-Tor” , a compact all-metal component, was smaller in size compared to later models. It proudly displayed a brass name plate indicating “Sani-Em-tor” with a patent pending status. This innovative feature was first introduced with the last model of the “Scott and Fetzer sanitation system.” The latch on this “Sani-Em-Tor” is now metal rather than painted in red like its predecessor
The model C came with a range of accessories and attachments to enhance its versatility. The hose, made of durable black fabric, featured eye-catching gold and red stripes. Two female connectors made from black rubber were conveniently placed on each side of the hose. The vacuum also included a curved black plastic wand, a short wand, a metal upholstery nozzle, a wooden upholstery brush, a black lifter grip made of fiber material, a clamp-on floor polisher (sweeper), a metal suction coupler, a spray jar with a metal top and glass jar, a metal blower coupler, a black shoulder strap, a red plastic “crystalator” with a metal cap, and an optional straight suction nozzle, which was initially introduced with the Vacuette Electric model.
For both the C and R models the vacuum and attachment box was elegantly designed in a natural brown color adorned with two horizontal and two vertical black stripes. The iconic Kirby logo in red enclosed within a black circle, proudly stood in the center, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall aesthetic.
Model R: This model featured a switch on the handle and was sold in retail shops . The R designation is shown at the end of the serial number ,whereas the C in the beginning of the serial number was concealed by an “X”. This was probably due to a last minute deal to sell in retail . This was sold in department stores ,furniture stores and vacuum shops. One such store was the Baileys Department store in Lakewood, OH .
This model was not portable and the attachments were sold separately *(some R models had the front nozzle fixed to the motor house and the optional attachments were not offered with that machine.)
The attachment box included the following attachments :
- Flexible hose
- 6’ black fibre tube
- Flat radiator tool
- Suction connection
- Blower connection
- Upholstery brush
- Upholstery nozzle
- Curved tube
- Floor polisher
- Crystalator
- Sample De-mothing Crystals
