The original filler tube on my Kirby was hard plastic which has cracked over the years. This flexible inflation tube actually seals better, its flexible wire is reinforced, softer and pliable plastic makes it much easier to change the bag as opposed to the original rigid inflation tube. Not to mention, this flexible fill tube is an inexpensive and easy-to-install do-it-yourself repair instead of taking your Kirby to your local vacuum or a Kirby retailer's repair shop. So far there have been no problems or problems with this product.