Motors, Filters, and Maintenance for Pullman Central Vac
All Products for Pullman
Only hear a "click" when trying to start the system? Does it shut off and start back up in a few minutes? These are common signs of a dead motor which only leaves two options. Replace the motor or the replace unit. If you liked the amount of suction it originally had, then replace the motor. If you'd like stronger suction or if you'd like a cleaner disposal system consider a different unit or alternative brand.

How is a central vacuum maintained? Generally, the only thing required is emptying the main unit. Beyond that there are some upkeep and preventative options given below.
Replacement Chart for Pullman Vacuum Motors, Filtration, & More
Model # Replacement Motor Filtration

BIV-96
110-115 volt		 Not available from MD Vac

Pullman Holt filtration is typically a center weighted cloth filter and a plastic collection bag. Since Pullman no longer produces central vacuums or filtration, we recommend cleaning or washing the cloth filter, being sure it is completely dry before installation. Instead of the plastic bag you can use this elastic top paper bag. It fits like the plastic bag and works just as well.

Pullman Holt Filter
Buy bag #721H-5


BIV-99
110-115 volt

Price / Details /
Instructions
115330

or

pullman vacuum motorPrice / Details /
Instructions
116429
(Requires 4 new screws from hardware store)

BIV-102
110-115 volt		 Price / Details /
Instructions
115330

BIV-105
110-115 volt

Price / Details /
Instructions
115334

or
Price / Details /
Instructions
116765 (replaces 116565)
BIV-109
110-115 volt		 Not available from MD Vac


TOP MOTOR

BIV-205
110-115 volt
Price / Details /
Instructions
116429


OR

Price / Details /
Instructions
116336


BOTTOM
MOTOR

BIV-205
110-115 volt


Price / Details /
Instructions
119412
(replaces 117378)
Basic Maintenance for Pullman Vacuum

Filtration Maintenance
Much like a regular portable vacuum, the basic maintenance of a Pullman Central Vacuum System is changing the bag, or, in most cases, emptying the dirt receptacle on the main unit. To do this, remove the base of the unit with a twist or by unlatching, then dump the debris. Place a plastic trash bag over the bottom of the unit. Reach up and grab the center weighted cloth filter and shake it. This filter can be further cleaned or replaced. To remove the filter, grab a side of it and pull toward the center. The outer stiff rim of the filter bends in and the filter drops out. To test filter efficiency, remove it, install the base back on the unit and test the suction. If the suction is significantly better without the filter, then replace the filter. To further clean the filter, wash it and thoroughly air dry it before installing.

Motor and Vacuum Maintenance
There is nothing to lube or oil in or on the central vacuum system, including the Pullman motor, Pullman vacuum motor unit, or Pullman vacuum cleaner. For the indoor vacuum brush, the fibers that get wrapped around the brush roll of the vacuum cleaner head should be cut out and removed on a regular basis.

Pipe and Hose Maintenance
We recommend cleaning out the hose and piping system at least once per year. The best way to do that is with Tornado Central Vacuum Maintenance Cloths. They do a couple of things. First, they push through the pipes, bringing along stalled out debris. Second, they deodorize the hose, pipes, and unit. Some amazing results can come from this product. The vacuum hose will last longer if it is stored on a hanger, always being detached from the vacuum after each use. See if any of these Storage Items can help your situation (scroll to the bottom of the Accessory Page).

Email Reminders to Empty Vacuum
Sign up for the Free Quarterly Email Reminders to dispose of your central vacuum debris. Let the trash build up can reduce suction, making the unit run hotter and clean less efficiently.

Replacement Motors and Parts for Pullman Vacuums

Troubleshooting
Self diagnose your system using this Interactive Troubleshooting Guide and Solutions.

Motor Replacement
Contact a local dealer for service, or consider doing it yourself. Motors on the Pullman vacuum have a few fasteners and wires that need to be unattached, the reattached on the new motor. It should take less than one hour. First, turn off the circuit breaker or unplug the central vacuum unit. Then, access the motor by releasing the outer housing. Use the chart to find the right replacement motor for your Pullman motor model. A motor may have many numbers on it but typically the real motor number starts with 11. Here are detailed Pullman Motor Replacement Instructions.

Circuit Board, Relay, Transformer, MiniBreaker
Separate transformers, relays, and minibreakers are not available here for Pullman. However, when a circuit board is installed, the most common board replacement for Pullman vacuums is the Vacuum Motor Circuit Board for Single Motor Units 110 Volt. The board is strong, yet generic and may need to be retrofitted. There are other Generic Circuit Boards here for units with different voltage and two motors. These robust generic boards are made by the leading industry supplier. An electrician will be able to replace the circuit board, or replace the relay, transformer, and minibreakers with a circuit board quite easily. Print and use the large photograph of the board as the wiring guide.

Motor Carbon Brush
The Pullman motor has two carbon brushes that wear down and can be replaced before they damage the motor. However, the Pullman motor may go bad for other reasons while the carbon brushes remain fine. Pullman motor brushes can be checked every few years and replaced if the 3/4-inch-long solid carbon is worn down. Definitely replace if one or both are down to 3/16 inch. Type the motor replacement number (not model number) in the search box and the motor brushes will come up along with instructions.
 
Note: Pullman Vacuum is a registered trademark of Pullman, not M.D. Manufacturing, Inc. Products sold by M.D. Manufacturing, Inc. are not from Pullman Vacuum but are designed to complement a Pullman Central Vacuum. Therefore, parts and products carry warranties from MD Manufacturing and not Pullman Vacuum and thus may alter the warranty provided by Pullman Vacuum.
Need more help? Try our extensive and helpful Pullman Vacuum Questions and Answers or give us a call at 1-800-997-2278 M-Th 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Standard Time.