Putting your new Shark Navigator together shouldn't be a struggle. Follow our senior-friendly guide to assembly without hand strain or confusion.
Getting a brand-new Shark Navigator is exciting, but the box can be full of parts that look intimidating. For many seniors, the challenge isn’t the weight—it’s the dexterity needed to click everything into place.
Putting your new Shark Navigator together shouldn’t be a struggle. Follow our senior-friendly guide to assembly without hand strain or confusion.
- Symptoms: none
- Tools: none
- Difficulty: Easy
This guide simplifies the assembly process into three easy sections. You won’t need any tools, just a flat surface and a few minutes.
1. The Base Construction
The first step is connecting the “brain” (the motor pod) to the “feet” (the floor nozzle).
- The Move: Place the floor nozzle flat on the floor. Hold the motor pod by its top handle and align it with the vertical neck of the nozzle.
- The Sound: Press down firmly until you hear a loud, metallic CLICK.
- Verification: Try to lift the pod by the handle. If it stays attached to the wheels, you’ve done it correctly.
2. Attaching the “Skeleton” (Wand and Handle)
The wand is the long metal tube that gives the vacuum its height.
- Slide the Wand In: Take the metal wand and slide the bottom end into the top of the motor pod. Again, listen for that CLICK.
- Attach the Handle: The handle has the power switch on it. Slide the handle into the top of the wand. Match the shape of the pipe with the opening in the handle.
- Snap the Hose: Take the loose end of the hose and plug it into the back of the motor pod. This might require a firm push, but it is much easier if you do it while the vacuum is standing upright.
3. Organizing the Tools (On-Board Storage)
Your Navigator comes with two small “pegs” on the back.
- Crevice Tool: Slide it onto one of the pegs.
- Upholstery Tool: Slide it onto the other peg.
- Cord Wrap: Wind the long power cord around the two hooks on the side of the wand.
Tips for Reducing Hand Strain
If you find the buttons hard to press or the parts hard to slide:
- Avoid Twisting: Shark parts are designed to slide straight in and out. Do not try to twist the wand or handle as you insert it; this will jam the plastic.
- Use Your Palm: If your fingers are weak, use the palm of your hand to press the red release buttons rather than your thumb.
- Rest Between Steps: Take a 1-minute break after Section 1. Assembly should be a victory, not a workout!
Assembly Checklist
| Part | Location | Confirmed with a Click? |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Pod | Bottom Nozzle | [ ] Yes |
| Metal Wand | Top of Pod | [ ] Yes |
| Handle | Top of Wand | [ ] Yes |
| Hose | Back of Pod | [ ] Yes |
TIP: Once your vacuum is assembled, we highly recommend reading our NV352 Simplified Manual to understand how the power switches work on different floors. Welcome to the Shark family!
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