the hose attaches to the side of the bucket right?
The bulkead used for the passthrough/hose attachment has a deflector Hopefully?
You should have it set up to where only dust is going through the fan. You can zip tie/hose clamp a rag to make a particle apron.
You have to empty the bucket more often but, you won't have to worry about sucking actual dirt or sand through the fan.
If that is what has worn the fan. Keep in mind any loss of blade surface will degrade the thrust.
To check for leaks other than just looking. Run the unit empty. Hit it with a mist of water enough that it will build up outside but such through. Just don't blast hard enough to force water in.
If there is a leak you'll have water in the bucket.
I've used a DIY with that motor. And the Vac Pack. forget what it used. They had ample Suction. Even moving small gravel.
Long hose too. The narrow oval suction end is about all i would neck it down. You can fab up a mini nozzle with a thrift store or yard sale. Household vacuum.
Just but it on the end for detail work.
I agree with Jason. A full breakdown and part replacement should be step one. Replace Fan with metal one if possible. Like mentioned. Then set it up to lessen wear.
Hopefully you make the thing really SUCK
