Kep Nut 7BF008

The Kep Nut (part# 7BF008) is a genuine OEM replacement part from the brush assembly of the Tornado Marathon SE 900 self-contained carpet extractor. It is the nut with an integral captive toothed washer that resists loosening under vibration. It also fits the Tornado 98168 20″ Marathon 1200 carpet extractor (12 Gallon 115V), all series (B, C, D, E, F and P).

What the Kep Nut does

A kep nut is a hex nut with a free-spinning toothed washer permanently retained under it. It gives the bite of a toothed lock washer without the loose part, which is worth real money on an assembly worked on in the field where a dropped washer disappears into the machine. The washer spins freely as the nut is run down and then bites at the last turn, so the teeth do their work rather than being dragged around the whole way.

When to replace the Kep Nut (7BF008)

Replace it when the teeth on the captive washer are flattened, when the washer has come free of the nut, or when the thread or flats are damaged. A kep nut that has lost its washer is just a plain nut and should be replaced rather than paired with a loose one.

Kep Nut 7BF008 — fitment and installation notes

Make sure the bearing surface is clean and free of paint build-up so the teeth can bite into metal. Tighten to a firm seat rather than relying on extra torque, and do not add a separate washer under it, since that puts the teeth against a spinning washer instead of the part. The Tornado Marathon SE 900 and the Powr-Flite Prowler PFX900S are built on a single machine platform, so this component carries across both brands rather than belonging to either one. It is a shared component and may fit additional models beyond those listed — call us and we will confirm against your serial number.

Compatible Models for the Kep Nut

• Tornado Marathon SE 900 — Model 98170
• Powr-Flite Prowler PFX900S
• Powr-Flite PFX900SG
• Tornado 98168 20″ Marathon 1200 Carpet Extractor (12 Gallon 115V) — all series (B, C, D, E, F and P)
• Tornado 98169 20″ Marathon 1200 Carpet Extractor (12 Gallon, 230V)

Twin City Vacuum has been selling and servicing commercial floor-care equipment since 1956 from 5415 West Broadway, Crystal, MN 55428. We stock genuine OEM parts and ship nationwide. Browse the full Tornado 98170 parts catalogue, or see the manufacturer at tornadovac.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Kep Nut do on the Tornado Marathon SE 900?

A kep nut is a hex nut with a free-spinning toothed washer permanently retained under it. It gives the bite of a toothed lock washer without the loose part, which is worth real money on an assembly worked on in the field where a dropped washer disappears into the machine. The washer spins freely as the nut is run down and then bites at the last turn, so the teeth do their work rather than being dragged around the whole way.

How do I know if my Kep Nut needs replacing?

Replace it when the teeth on the captive washer are flattened, when the washer has come free of the nut, or when the thread or flats are damaged. A kep nut that has lost its washer is just a plain nut and should be replaced rather than paired with a loose one.

What models is the Kep Nut (part# 7BF008) compatible with?

The Tornado Marathon SE 900 (Model 98170), the Powr-Flite Prowler PFX900S and the PFX900SG. It is a shared part and may fit further models; call us to confirm.

How do I order the Kep Nut (part# 7BF008) or get help?

You can add the Kep Nut (part# 7BF008) directly to your cart on this page, or call us at 763-535-0770. Our staff at 5415 West Broadway, Crystal, MN 55428 has been servicing Tornado equipment since 1956 and can help confirm the right part for your machine.