Kirby model Heritage 1981-1983

Accessories, accessories, and more attachments. The Kirby Heritage model boasted the largest selection of attachments compared to any previous model. From a brand-new Turbo brush to a sander/massager, hair clipper, and many more. Kirby even gave their attachment collections new names to make them sound more professional and commercial-like. They used terms like “Super Renovation group”, “Convenience group”, and “Turbo group”, as shown in the pictures here. The color scheme of orange and gray was stunning. The rich orange colored bag with the Kirby font “K” pattern and squares in red. The bag now had a white tag with the Kirby logo and the vacuum printed on it in black. The bag’s top slide was made of sturdy gray plastic with the Heritage and Kirby logos printed on a silver decal The Heritage logo was printed in black on a silver decal, with the Kirby logo in orange on a separate strip above it. The hook was updated and made sturdier. Kirby got rid of the belt lifter window and replaced it with solid gray plastic, the Heritage logo was printed in black on a silver decal, with the Kirby logo in orange on a separate strip above it. New brushed silver color hubcaps were adorned with a new logo in orange. The Sani-Em-Tor was now still made of aluminum but powder coated dark gray to match the new color theme. it did however maintain the polished aluminum lock lever, The handle grip one solid piece construction was redesigned to be more user-friendly. Boxes were gray and natural brown with the Kirby “K” pattern and Heritage logos printed in orange. In 1981, for some reason, Kirby decided to use a cloth Fill Tube assembly that turned out to be faulty. They quickly replaced it with a plastic tube in March of 1982. The optional fabric dump bag was still available upon request. Rug plate was updated. As for attachments, the aptly named “Heritage Convenience group” included the following standard attachments: – Hose – Curved extension tube – Straight tube – Crevice tool – Portable handle with shoulder strap – Surface nozzle with swivel attachment – Duster brush – Turbo brush – Kirby disposable bags – Odorific – Room refreshener (7oz.) There were also nonstandard options: – Heritage “Super Renovation group “(1982/1983): This included the Rug Renovator, inflator deflator, air intake nozzle, suds-o-gun sprayer, floor polisher, carpet fluffer, and a 12 oz. Suds bottle. – Heritage “Handi-Butler group”: This Handi-Butler was the last belt-driven device and originally debuted with the model 509 in 1949. – “Heritage Home Turbo Group”: This group of attachments featured the Turbo-Sander, Turbo-Groom, massage cap, and related accessories. – Kirby Care Kit: This included solutions and accessories for stain removal. In 1983, some minor changes were made and featured in a revised Instruction manual. The “Convenience group” standard attachments no longer included the Turbo brush. Instead, new additions to the standard attachments were the utility brush nozzle, air intake guard, inflator/deflator, utility air nozzle, and Suds-o-gun. There was also a “Convenience group with turbo power”, which included the standard attachments along with the Turbo brush. At one point, a Performance pack was offered that included the Turbo brush, clippers and other attachments. Optional 13 inch nozzle was first introduced with this model

The Heritage 1HD serial number can be used to determine the date of manufacture as follows:
– The first number represents the factory location.
– The second and third numbers indicate the year of manufacture.
– The fourth and fifth numbers signify the month of manufacture.
– The remaining numbers show the unit number in production.
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Kirby model Heritage 84, 1984

The Kirby Heritage 1HD 84 was introduced as part of the celebration for Kirby’s 70th anniversary, although the Heritage II also marked this significant milestone. This model featured a subtle design facelift compared to its predecessor, highlighting several updates that enhanced its overall look and functionality.

Notable changes included a redesigned handle, a new bag topper, and updated hub caps, all of which proudly displayed the Heritage 84 logo. Additionally, the belt lifter underwent a refresh to align with the new design aesthetic.

Other minor updates included a streamlined air intake cap and a more refined small handle lifter, contributing to the vacuum’s sleek appearance. These thoughtful enhancements made the Heritage 1HD 84 a distinctive addition to Kirby’s legacy

The Heritage 1HD 84′ serial number can be used to determine the date of manufacture as follows:
– The first number represents the factory location.
– The second and third numbers indicate the year of manufacture.
– The fourth and fifth numbers signify the month of manufacture.
– The remaining numbers show the unit number in production.

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Kirby model Heritage II 1984

In August 1984, the Heritage II was introduced, showcasing a remarkable shift in design with the debut of the Mini Emtor for paper bag models. Constructed from a sleek tinted black plastic, this new Mini Emtor replaced the previous bulky Emtor, which featured a trap door; however, customers still had the option to order the traditional Emtor with a shakeout bag if they preferred. By this point, the shakeout bag and the 13″ nozzle—both carried over from the Heritage I—had become popular choices, particularly for commercial use.

As the first model to standardize the Mini Emtor, the Heritage II required an adjustment in the rear axle length, extending it from 4.5″ to 6″ to enhance stability. This meant that for the optional shakeout bag to fit correctly, the rear axle would need to be swapped for the shorter version.

A new power light indicator was incorporated at the top of the vacuum for improved usability. The toe touch control was also redesigned, now featuring a striking “MICRO MATIC” label in red with silver text.

The hub caps maintained their classic design but now prominently displayed the iconic Kirby K logo in bold red. The belt lifter was adorned with a turbo designation, a feature inspired by the turbo brush introduced in the previous model. A notable aspect of the Heritage II was that it was the last model to include the cardboard attachments caddy.

The boxes for the Heritage II received a significant update, showcasing an elegant silver-gray color enhanced by a black grid pattern. The Kirby logos were creatively arranged diagonally on the box in vibrant red. Additionally, since 1984 marked the 70th anniversary of Kirby, select boxes featured a bright silver label commemorating this milestone.

The turbo brush was now presented in a sleek black finish, complementing the shiny, smooth plastic attachments that lacked any texture. Functionality was further enhanced with hose and long wands ends that included two drilled holes.

Lastly, the Heritage II was notable for being the final model to feature the large wing head nozzle and the last to feature the brush roll to carry over from the Heritage 1HD. Like its predecessor, it offered the 13” optional nozzle for purchase. Additionally, some units were specifically designed to accommodate these smaller nozzles and were designated as “Heritage II MODEL 2HD-13.”

The Heritage 2HD serial number can be used to determine the date of manufacture as follows:
– The first number represents the factory location.
– The second and third numbers indicate the year of manufacture.
– The fourth and fifth numbers signify the month of manufacture.
– The remaining numbers show the unit number in production.

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Kirby model Heritage II 1985

This year marked significant design updates, as the previous wing nozzle was phased out in favor of a newly designed tapered nozzle with a sleek, shaved appearance. In March 1985, a gray polymer attachment caddy was launched, while the attachments themselves transitioned from smooth to a textured black finish. The hose now featured a single hole drilled into its metal end. Additionally, 1985 saw the release of the first Kirby instructional VHS, priced at $14.95. The cardboard attachment caddy remained available, but all packaging was updated to a white color, retaining the black grid and red Kirby logos. No further modifications occurred this year, but the introduction of the Zip brush—a powerful air-driven tool equipped with three rotating brushes—allowed for effective removal of pet hair and debris from carpets and upholstery. Updated manual showcasing the new nozzle and ZIPPBRUSH. Brush roll now has a chevron pattern

The Heritage 1HD serial number can be used to determine the date of manufacture as follows:
– The first number represents the factory location.
– The second and third numbers indicate the year of manufacture.
– The fourth and fifth numbers signify the month of manufacture.
– The remaining numbers show the unit number in production.

1985 Split Second and Split Second 2

Kirby’s very first cordless vacuum cleaner, the “SPLITSECOND” was introduced in 1985 along the Heritage II. it operated on 5 rechargeable cell batteries and was aptly dubbed “NITE CHARGER,” it is the very first hand-held vacuum to also be attached to the front handle of the Kirby upright vacuum. It included a wall charger, wall mounting bracket, screws, and a vacuum mounting bracket. A white reusable dust cup is also included.

The SPLITSECOND 2  presented a similar experience, albeit with a distinct difference – the absence of the cell rechargeable batteries. Instead, it featured a permanent cord with a car lighter plug that catered to the needs of both car and RV owners alike.

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Kirby model Heritage II 1986

In March 1986, Kirby launched the BPI Streamlined nozzle, which featured a Brush Performance Indicator (BPI) light to inform users whether the belt was properly positioned. The packaging underwent a redesign, showcasing a prominent box with bold red text highlighting the new five-year warranty. The traditional cardboard caddy was now obsolete and fully replaced by a durable polymer gray attachments caddy that had been introduced the year before, and an updated manual was also provided. The attachments remained consistent with the previous model, though the hose’s metal end was smooth and free of holes. Additionally, the ZIPPBRUSH was now packaged in a sleek black velvet bag. Leading up to the introduction of the Legend in the summer of 1987, the packaging grid was updated to a soft gray color

The Heritage II 2HD serial number can be used to determine the date of manufacture as follows:
– The first number represents the factory location.
– The second and third numbers indicate the year of manufacture.
– The fourth and fifth numbers signify the month of manufacture.
– The remaining numbers show the unit number in production.

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Kirby model Heritage II Legend 1987-1989

Kirby unveiled the Heritage Legend on October 25, 1987, during the Kirby World Conference, marking a significant addition to their vacuum lineup. The packaging for this model featured a fresh design, showcasing a light gray grid set against a pure white background. The initial boxes included a striking black decal that read, “The Legend continues…” but later iterations displayed the Legend logo printed directly on the box.

In terms of design updates, the hose ends were now entirely plastic with double swivel ends, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. Long wands were now free of holes, swivel elbow attachment still had the holes. The zipper tab was painted gray to match the bag. The “Turbo” text on the belt lifter was replaced by the new “Legend” logo, and the previously red grid on the handle fork was removed, replaced by a sleek black design framed by a thin red line, featuring the Kirby logo in red at the bottom. Vents are on both sides of power plant again, I assume because of overheating issues,

The Micro Matic decal on the toe touch control was updated to a bold black with bright red text, adding to the overall modern look of the vacuum. The Mini Emtor was also reimagined, now crafted entirely from polycarbonate, as opposed to previous models that incorporated a metal ring connector inside.

Additionally, the Heritage Legend introduced a stronger paper bag design and updates to the brush roll for enhanced durability. Customers could still order the 13″ nozzle and shake-out Emtor bag on special request, ensuring versatility and continued functionality

The Heritage II Legend serial number can be used to determine the date of manufacture as follows:
– The first number represents the factory location.
– The second and third numbers indicate the year of manufacture.
– The fourth and fifth numbers signify the month of manufacture.
– The remaining numbers show the unit number in production.

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Kirby model Legend II 1989-1991

SPLITSECOND

The Legend II made its debut in a stunning maroon color, replacing the black and red color scheme of the Heritage model, while the Mini Emtor retained its signature black tinted plastic. Until 1990, the Reno Group nozzle casting and the optional Sani Emtor were still produced in black; however, after that, they were updated to harmonize with the overall maroon trim of the vacuum.

One notable upgrade in the Legend II was the introduction of a new ball bearing brush roll, accompanied by a separate instruction sheet in the manual for guidance on installation. Additionally, the Legend II marked the final model to provide both the shake-out bag option and the smaller 13″ nozzle.

The year 1990 heralded considerable changes, with most attachments receiving a makeover to align with the Generation 3 style. However, the hose, air intake guard, lifter grip, and spray/suds gun remained in their original maroon color.

Side Note: The Legend II was manufactured in the United States from March1989 to November 1991, but production continued for international markets—including the UK, Europe, South Africa, and Australia—until 1992

The Heritage Legend II serial number can be used to determine the date of manufacture as follows:
– The first number represents the factory location.
– The second and third numbers indicate the year of manufacture.
– The fourth and fifth numbers signify the month of manufacture.
– The remaining numbers show the unit number in production.

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Kirby Hand-held Vacuette 1989

Kirby had last unveiled a handheld vacuum cleaner back in 1934 with the Kirby Utility. Fast forward more than 50 years, and in 1989, they introduced the Hand-held Belt Driven Vacuette. These devices were sold on their own for around $14.95 or often presented by salespersons as an additional incentive or a persuasive tool to seal the deal when customers purchased a complete Kirby home care system. The Vacuette was equipped with a 32-foot long cord, shakeout bag, and a floodlight. An instruction manual was included. A black version was introduced thereafter and was sold through the year 2010.

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1980S Kirby Memorabilia

Kirby Memorabilia was abundant in the 80s, with The Kirby Co. releasing a wide array of items ranging from cups to knives, bottle openers, cards, and even a cute teddy bear. These pictures showcase just a glimpse of the many collectibles available, with countless more waiting to be discovered. Stay tuned for updates as I continue to add to this collection. If you have any Kirby memorabilia of your own, please reach out so I can showcase it here for all to enjoy.

Disclaimer : Kirby® is a registered trademark of Kirby Opco , LLC. I have no affiliation with either Opco ,LLC   current or previous owners  of Kirby® , its subsidiaries, affiliates, or related companies. I am not employed, contracted, or compensated by them in any way. I do not represent the Kirby Company in any capacity.The information provided in these pages solely reflects my personal opinions and perspectives . It should not be considered as official Kirby Company policy, practices, regulations, guidelines, or opinions. This  website material is intended for informational purposes ONLY!

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