How can I fix my Electrolux Ambassador III's retractable cord?

My cord won't retract back into the canister. I can't find a way to open it up. One Blog said the rubber bumper strips come off and there are screw under it and the top comes off. When I lift to rubber up there is a plastic strip and I'm afraid to force it and ruin my sweeper. I still have my original sweeper from 1976 and never had this problem. Please help. My husband who can fix anything couldn't get it apart. Please help me!
jwhiteman, May 2008


done
Anybody?

DS, September 2008
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