Turn it over and pull out the brush holding assembly and insure that the master brush's stem is not broken off in the socket. The socket is geared to the vacum operated turbine that powers the brushes. There is the air input located next to the brushes and the filter might be clogged. If no air is being sucked into this red filter then it will have no vacum to turn the brushes. Insure that the flap is not closed behind the input filter. The flap is controlled by the brushes on selector switch.
Take out the duct in front of the tank (#3), the hose end will have a duct on it that you insert in its place. This provides the suction for the hose. Don't forget to put that duct you took out back in place, or you won't have suction when you use the steam cleaner.
Either the carbon brushes on the motor need replacing or the thermal cut out is activating. That might be because it is faulty or because there is not enough airflow over the motor.
Overheating motor causing an automatic shutoff. This is most commonly caused by an air passage that is plugged by hair or dirt.
When your Hoover spin scrub is not sucking up water, the most common problem is the clear round cap located on the suction nozzle is not closed. See pic. Also check the rubber cap on the dirty water tank.
The handle pedal is snapped in to the base, where it pivots.
The pedal needs to be pried away fron the base, exposing the pivot pin to release it for removal. On your model, you will likelly have to remove the lower handle from the base (where it pivots) to get room to release and replace the pedal.
The latch at the bottom of your vacuum cleaner. The problem is that 'React' seems to be a range of cleaners.
Google
make model (number) parts diagram
https://www.google.com/search?q=Hoover+React
..
If your Hoover SteamVac F5851 is simultaneously dispensing the cleaning solution and extracting it while you have the trigger depressed, there may be an issue with the unit's internal mechanism. Here are a few troubleshooting steps you can try:
1. Check the trigger mechanism: Make sure the trigger is not stuck or jammed in the depressed position. Gently press and release the trigger a few times to ensure it moves freely.
2. Inspect the solution dispenser: Examine the solution dispenser to see if there are any clogs or blockages that might be causing the simultaneous dispensing and extraction. Clean the dispenser thoroughly, removing any debris or obstructions.
3. Verify the solution flow setting: Ensure that the solution flow setting on the SteamVac is correctly adjusted. There should be a control or dial that allows you to adjust the amount of solution being dispensed. Make sure it is set to the desired level and not malfunctioning.
4. Check the suction nozzles: Inspect the suction nozzles and brushes to ensure they are securely attached and not damaged. If any parts appear loose or worn out, you may need to replace them.
5. Clean the unit: Give your SteamVac a thorough cleaning, both inside and out. Remove the recovery tank, rinse it, and make sure it is properly reattached. Clean the brushes and nozzles to remove any built-up dirt or debris that could be affecting the unit's performance.
If these steps don't resolve the issue, it's possible that there may be a more significant problem with the internal components of your SteamVac. In that case, you may need to contact Hoover customer support or take the unit to a professional repair service for further assistance.
Question edited for a lot more clarity.
Parts Schematics and Parts Suppliers. Some parts are obsolete, so you might just have to tell your son to find the parts he removed.
https://www.google.com/search?q=Hoover+F5881-900+parts