16 Gallon Wet/Dry Shop Vac

Serviceable with common replacement parts, but some quality concerns in newer models.

• •Motor Access: Simple design allows motor access with basic tools. Users report replacing 30-year-old units primarily due to cracked housings rather than motor failure.
• •Parts Availability: Major pain point is finding compatible filters for older models. Many report the last four filters ordered didn't fit properly.
• •Component Replacement: Common failure points (casters, switches, hoses) are standard parts that can be replaced, but quality of newer plastic components is noticeably worse than vintage models.

Bottom line: Basic repairs are straightforward with standard tools, but finding exact replacement parts for legacy models is frustrating. The simple design makes motor access easy, but declining component quality means more frequent repairs needed.

A tale of two vacs: powerful motor meets questionable plastics. Many users report replacing 20-30 year old Craftsman vacs, suggesting potential for longevity, but newer models show concerning quality control issues.

• •Motor longevity: The 6.5HP motor receives consistent praise for handling everything from fine dust to water without strain, a key durability indicator.
• •Degrading materials: Many users note cheaper plastic components compared to older models, with casters and housing particularly vulnerable to breakage.
• •Quality control concerns: Multiple reports of units arriving with broken components or missing hardware signals manufacturing inconsistency that affects longevity.

Bottom line: The core vacuum will likely outlast its cheaper plastic components by years, making it durable but not truly BIFL like its predecessors.

Craftsman offers a 3-year limited warranty on this shop vac that covers defects in materials and workmanship, but excludes normal wear items like filters and accessories.

• •Coverage Clarity: The warranty terms are straightforward but somewhat standard for the category, requiring proof of purchase for claims.
• •Commercial Limitations: If used commercially, warranty coverage drops significantly to just 90 days, a major downgrade for professional users.
• •User Experience: While official coverage exists, reviews don't specifically mention warranty experiences, suggesting most users haven't needed to test Craftsman's warranty service.

Bottom line: The 3-year warranty provides moderate protection for a tool in this category, but lacks the exceptional coverage found in premium brands like Ridgid that offer lifetime warranties on similar products.

Craftsman shop vacs spark passionate debates on Reddit between old-timer loyalists and frustrated modern buyers. The brand rides on legendary 30-40 year lifespans of Sears-era models, but newer units face scrutiny.

• •Legacy Love: Users proudly share stories like this vac is a beast that outlived several newer models and will pass it on to my children
• •Parts Pain: Finding replacement filters for older models is a nightmare - the last four filters I ordered haven't fit drives many to competitors like Ridgid
• •Quality Divide: Old Craftsman gets worship while new models face complaints about faulty switches, electrical shocks, and I was appalled at how cheap everything now is

Bottom line: Redditors trust vintage Craftsman as BIFL gold but approach new models with caution - strong suction power can't fully overcome quality control concerns and parts availability headaches.