Kirby Cam for Neutral Drive Pedal - Sentria
When a Kirby stops holding neutral - the machine creeps forward on its own, refuses to disengage the drive, or the pedal feels loose and sloppy underfoot - the neutral/drive pedal cam is almost always the part that has worn. This is the replacement cam assembly for the Sentria and the earlier G-series uprights, and it is the fix that gets a still-good vacuum back to shifting cleanly between drive and neutral instead of getting written off as a transmission problem. It is the kind of repair vacuum shops and in-house maintenance techs do in minutes with basic hand tools, and it is a fraction of the cost of replacing a machine that otherwise still runs.
Kirby uprights are built to be rebuilt, which is exactly why owners keep them for fifteen and twenty years. The tradeoff is that the small molded drive components take the wear. The cam rides against the pedal linkage every single time the operator steps on it, and after enough cycles the engagement faces round over. Replacing the cam restores positive, repeatable pedal action so the machine parks where you put it and pulls when you ask it to.
Built for these use cases
This is a wear part, not an upgrade - reach for it when the symptom points at pedal engagement rather than the motor or belt.
- Restoring neutral on a Sentria that rolls forward on its own when the operator lets go
- Fixing a drive pedal that feels mushy, sticks, or will not stay in the selected position
- Routine refurbishment of a used Kirby before it goes back into a rental fleet or resale inventory
- Preventive replacement during a full teardown, belt change and bearing service
- In-house maintenance for housekeeping departments running Kirby uprights across multiple properties
Specifications
- Kirby factory part number 558406 / 558406S
- Component type: neutral and drive pedal cam assembly
- Fits Kirby Sentria and Sentria II, plus G3, G4, G5, G6, G7, G7D, G9/SE and G10 uprights
- Molded drive-grade housing matched to original Kirby engagement geometry
- Sold as a single replacement cam assembly
- Installs with standard hand tools - no special Kirby service fixtures required
Frequently asked questions
Which Kirby models does this cam fit?
It is the Sentria-series neutral and drive pedal cam, and it also serves the earlier G3, G4, G5, G6, G7, G7D, G9/SE and G10 uprights that share the same pedal assembly. Check your model badge on the rear of the housing before ordering.
How do I know the cam is the failed part and not the transmission?
The classic sign is a pedal that no longer holds a position. If the motor runs normally, the belt is intact, and the machine still creeps or will not engage drive when the pedal is set, the cam is the usual cause. A worn cam feels loose and vague underfoot rather than clicking into detents.
Is this a genuine Kirby part number?
Yes - it is supplied under the Kirby 558406 / 558406S part number for the Sentria pedal assembly rather than a generic substitute.
Can I install it myself?
Most owners can. The pedal assembly is accessible from the underside of the nozzle housing and comes apart with common hand tools. If you are not comfortable working on the drive linkage, any Kirby service center can fit it quickly.
Do I need to replace anything else at the same time?
Not necessarily, but a machine worn enough to need a cam is usually due for a belt and a look at the brush roll bearings. Doing them together saves a second teardown.
Discount Cleaning Products is an authorized dealer stocking genuine Kirby Sentria service parts alongside a deep catalog of commercial vacuum, floor care and restoration parts. Orders ship from US warehouses and our US-based support team can help you confirm fitment against your model and serial number before you buy, so you get the right part the first time.
