Brilliant, i just fixed my DC01. Like you said there was a break in the wire just near the switch. I replaced the flex and it all worked fine.
Tonsai
November 2008
I just picked up a dc01 upright that someone had throw out and fixed it in 15 mins. No power. Mains lead busted at entry point. Unscrew one small screw at back of switch after opening dust collecter. Take off small panel. Remove switch (after unplugging!) remove clamps cut cable. Cut off a few inches. Refix., you will need one spade tag. Reassemble. 15 mins.
Bob Moore
March 2008
I've had this problem on two DC01's and the issue was the mains lead breaking at the point it goes into the chassis, the question I have tonight is how to open the case to save paying a repair shop the premium for a simple repair!
A.
September 2005
Have a look at my answer to... ' Dyson DC 07 Stops every 5-10 mins? '