Scratching my hardwood floors - HELP!

[DC14Spain]

First an intro, We have had our Dyson DC14 for approx. 6 years, it is actually an american model so I have to use it with a (35lb) power adaptor. I have used it here in Spain for 2+ years and no complaints. I love the functionality of my Dyson.

But in the last 2 months it has begun to pick up tiny stones/sand particles and scratch the hardwood floor with them until I notice the scratch/es and stop. Now it happens every time.

Is there something that can have worn out or dropped the bottom of the machine nearer the floor? Everything seems a bit old and worn but working fine. The plastic part that holds the beater brush is very scratched now, I think I remember it smooth 2 months ago.

I could use the floor attachment but I don't like the stiffness of the hose and it feels like more work.

Anybody have any ideas?
And thank you for any advice.

[DysonFan55555]

Does your Dyson have a clutch (Twisty switch on the bottom)? If so you need that on the off position to stop the brush bar rotating and chucking the stones about. And on the soul plate (At the very bottom that you take off with 3 big screws) there are some rollers, make sure they are all in place and turn freely, if they don't you need to try to get whatever it is that's stopping them out of the way, you can sometimes take the roller out of the holder but be careful not to lose the bits. Hope this helps.

[DC14Spain]

Thank you for your reply.
Not a clutch problem or brush problem, I was wondering if the rollers could been worn out, they do not lift the dyson off the floor now but not sure how they were before. Do you have any idea?
Thanks again

[DysonFan55555]

The rollers on the sole-plate should look like this:

They can be found fairly cheaply on ebay and it might be worth while getting a new set anyway.

[DC14Spain]

Bought them installed them and so far no more scratches.
Hoooray and thanks!