Craftsman wet/dry vac

blockage in the suction line
if it is the wet mode there should be a valve (ball) that sucks up to stop water from getting to the motor when the receiver is too full. If you are in wet mode and still have the dust bag in place then the bag will be a solid block of mud and that will be the blockage.

The foam just is put over the round center beneath the top of vacumn with top off the bucket. Just slide up to top of round assembly and you good to go. If you have the paper bag filter on remove it first.

The filter is for dry pick-up only. Remove it for wet pick-up.

Hello again.
When it says wet vacuuming, it means that the vacuum will pick up water, not dispense it. When you are using the vacuum to pick up water, you'll need to remove the paper filter element under the motor, inside the canister, to avoid ruining it. When the filter is removed, you will see a plactic ball inside a cage under the motor. It's purpose is to float up on the surface of the water being vacuumed up, and prevent the motor from getting water into it. You'll be able to tell when the canister is full; the noise the vacuum makes will change and sound higher. Also, the suction at the hose will quit. At that point, shut off the vacuum and drain the water.
Be sure to replace the paper filter when you swap back from liquids to solids.
Best regards, --W/D--

Your make and model number appears isn't stated and the category designation is incomplete. Find the model and look for a thermal protection fuse.

https://www.searspartsdirect.com/combo/0247-1235880/craftsman-wet-dry-vacuum-parts

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Hi, I know on my Craftsman shop vac 2 different sizes of vacs that I use, I try and stick to the craftsman filters, but you can use other brands if they are not available or you want to save some ( $ ) ? As far as a manual for this vac, more then likely you will have to go to the maker and distributor as Sears, O.C.Hardware also sell there products. You may have to go with a manual that is the same peak H.P.and gallons that covers all different makes and models. Filter wise, make sure you have the right ones on or off when using the wet or dry pick-up settings.
Sincerely,
Shastalaker7

If it's a paper filter, take it off. If it's a cloth filter that can be washed and dried, leave it on. Your machine will have a float to close off the suction when the tub needs emptying. Anyway, air from the tub only goes through the turbine, not through the motor itself, so you need not worry. It's good practice to run the vac dry for a few minutes after using it wet, just to make sure the turbine's dry.

are you using a water , foam material filter?

IT SOUND LIKE THE MOTOR WENT BAD OR IN SIDE THE PANLE A WIRE CAME LOSE

you did take the filter off before useing it wet didnt you make sure the check ball in the filter housing is down in the cage and that the top is locked down properly