The fill tube and emptor on a Kirby is the path everything the machine picks up has to travel, and it is also the part that ages fastest. The original assemblies crack and split at the boot after years of flexing, and once that happens the machine leaks dust at exactly the point where the operator is standing. This pre-assembled Kirby kit replaces the whole path in one go.
It is bought by vacuum shops working on customer machines, by refurbishers preparing a Generation-series Kirby for resale, and by owners who would rather fix a machine they already trust than start over. The genuine Kirby emptor boot and fill tube assembly has been redesigned so that it does not crack and split the way the older style did, which is the single practical reason to use the factory part here.
Use Cases
- Replacing a cracked or split emptor boot that is leaking dust in use
- Restoring a Generation-series Kirby for resale or for a customer handover
- Converting a machine back to reliable operation with disposable bags via the fill tube top adaptor
- Repairing a crush-proof hose that has collapsed or torn at the snap connection
- Refreshing the outer bag assembly and emptor together as one service job
Specifications
The kit is supplied pre-assembled and includes the snap-type crush-proof hose, the bag outlet, and the mini emptor. The full assembly comprises two fill-tube clamps, the Generation 6 mini emptor, the bag-to-emptor clamp, the Generation 6 outer cloth bag assembly, and the fill tube top adaptor for disposable bags. It is cross-referenced under 185899 and 185899S.
Fitment covers the Generation series and beyond: Generation 3, Generation 4, Generation 5, Generation 6, Generation 7, the G2000 and G2001 Limited Editions, Ultimate G, Diamond Edition, Sentria and Sentria II. Because the kit arrives assembled, the service job becomes a swap rather than a rebuild, which is what makes it worth using over sourcing the individual clamps, boot, and hose separately.
The failure to look for is a split in the rubber boot where the hose meets the emptor, usually visible as a fine crack line that opens under flex. A machine that puffs dust at the operator's ankles, or that leaves a fine deposit along the baseboard as it passes, is nearly always leaking here rather than at the bag. Check the hose for collapse as well, because a crush-proof hose that has been stored kinked will restrict airflow even when it looks intact from the outside. When fitting, seat both fill-tube clamps evenly and make sure the top adaptor is fully home before running the machine, since a partly seated adaptor will pop under load.
Frequently asked questions
What comes in this kit?
The kit is pre-assembled and includes the snap-type crush-proof hose, the bag outlet, the mini emptor, two fill-tube clamps, the bag-to-emptor clamp, the Generation 6 outer cloth bag assembly, and the fill tube top adaptor for disposable bags.
Which Kirby models does it fit?
It fits Generation 3, Generation 4, Generation 5, Generation 6, Generation 7, the G2000 and G2001 Limited Editions, Ultimate G, Diamond Edition, Sentria and Sentria II.
Is this the redesigned emptor that does not split?
Yes. The genuine Kirby emptor boot and fill tube assembly was redesigned so that it does not crack and split the way the older style did.
My Kirby is leaking dust. Is this the part at fault?
Usually. A split in the rubber boot where the hose meets the emptor is the most common source of dust leaking at floor level. Check the boot for fine crack lines that open under flex.
Can I use disposable bags with this assembly?
Yes. The fill tube top adaptor for disposable bags is included in the kit.
Discount Cleaning Products is an authorized dealer for the brands we carry, with US-based product support from people who know this equipment. If you are unsure whether this part matches the machine you are servicing, contact us with the model and serial number and we will confirm the fitment before you order.
