Questions about new-to-me sewing machine

**Ramblinrev** · 02-14-2016, 08:28

I would suggest you take the machine to a repair shop for a good overhaul. The benefit of this is you can also get some advice on how to use it. You should not have needed to take the top off to get to parts that needed oil. It is possible you have some build up that is gumming up the works. Sewing machine oil is measured in _drops_ and is only needed according to the manufacturer's directions. Any more is at best unneeded and at worst can cause problems. You may have to play with the presser foot tension. That's one problem with twisting and turning knobs and dials when you don't know what they do. That's not a dis... we've all done it at one time or another. Typical newbie exuberance. The timing sounds off and there may be an issue with the feed dogs. But all in all I would invest a few bucks in this machine before I pulled the trigger on an Amazon special that will come without the personal attention of a live person to help you learn the ropes.

**gregsplett** · 02-14-2016, 09:10

Sounds to me like you are having problems with your hook and or hook timing.There is a bunch of info out there,question is whether you can find it specific to your machine.Too bad you can not get a manual as it would give you specific instructions on how to calibrate yours.Here is a simple video which shows you the basics.....https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lT98wbDLVco

Seems that,in typical brother style that the info you need is there for a fee.........http://www.sewingmachinemanual.net/S...ion_manual.htm

**SpitballJedi** · 02-14-2016, 14:06

Yeah, there are manuals, but not free, at least that I could find.

We have surprisingly few shops here and they all want $80-$125 for service. I just don't think the machine is worth that kind of investment.

I will watch the videos and try to do some more research to try and get this thing running right on the cheap.

I've read some reviews and gotten some opinions on another thread asking what a decent new machine would be and I may go with a Singer 4411 if I can't get this thing going soon.

Any other tips are welcome and thanks for all the help. I'll update my progress or lack thereof.

**Ramblinrev** · 02-14-2016, 15:29

Originally Posted by SpitballJedi

We have surprisingly few shops here and they all want $80-$125 for service. I just don't think the machine is worth that kind of investment.

The machine is worth whatever you think it is. and that's your prerogative. For me.... for a gear making machine, I'd opt for the service but that's my own bias coming through. In terms of full disclosure.... I hate Amazon and only do business with them when all other options fail. So take that in mind. Modern Singers should be marked as toys IMO and there's another issue to be clear on. So As always... you follow your bliss and I'll follow mine.

**ylnfrt** · 02-14-2016, 21:49

Glad to be of help. try to find a manual if at all possible- it will help. Try checking local/ on-line used book stores.
As to the skipping- use a new/ sharp needle -size10 to 14 are used the most in gear making.
The material bunching could be caused by too much presser foot pressure - back that off some. Also check for any gummed up residue on the presser foot or feed dog also check for any burrs. (often caused by breaking needles). I just looked back on your second pic (of the rear of your machine) and it looks like the throat plate is not seated properly, it should be below the rear screw head not above it- need to fix that.
As ramblinrev suggests, before spending $$$+++ on a new plastic machine (not worth it- for a gear machine) take your machine in for service, you will be much happier in the end with your solid/ all metal thread injector and if taken care of it will give you long life and excellent service.
On the money you will be saving- order some material from the cottage venders here and begin the fall into the bowels of DIY and make some gear.

**SpitballJedi** · 02-15-2016, 02:00

I've been watching videos a lot and reading a lot and with y'alls help, I'm feeling more confident I can get this thing going without it costing a fortune.

I've reading and watching videos on troubleshooting as well as comparisons about old vs new machines.

I will pick up some quality thread and new needles fiddle some more trying to dial it in. I'm just fiddling with the simple fixes and adjustments until I feel it's beyond my ability and have it serviced if need be.

I think for the same money, this machine will last longer than a new one.

I will annoy you with progress updates...

**gregsplett** · 02-15-2016, 08:38

Originally Posted by SpitballJedi

Yeah, there are manuals, but not free, at least that I could find.

We have surprisingly few shops here and they all want $80-$125 for service. I just don't think the machine is worth that kind of investment.

I will watch the videos and try to do some more research to try and get this thing running right on the cheap.

I've read some reviews and gotten some opinions on another thread asking what a decent new machine would be and I may go with a Singer 4411 if I can't get this thing going soon.

Any other tips are welcome and thanks for all the help. I'll update my progress or lack thereof.

I have a Brother sewing machine in my closet and two Singers in use.Why?Because Brother wants me to pay for the operators manual.Not saying one is better than the other but support goes a long way!

**gregsplett** · 02-15-2016, 08:41

Originally Posted by SpitballJedi

I've been watching videos a lot and reading a lot and with y'alls help, I'm feeling more confident I can get this thing going without it costing a fortune.

I've reading and watching videos on troubleshooting as well as comparisons about old vs new machines.

I will pick up some quality thread and new needles fiddle some more trying to dial it in. I'm just fiddling with the simple fixes and adjustments until I feel it's beyond my ability and have it serviced if need be.

I think for the same money, this machine will last longer than a new one.

I will annoy you with progress updates...

Bet it is a bent needle.

**Tacblades** · 02-17-2016, 02:08

I made some vids that might help you

https://youtu.be/SHYfcgiQ2DU

https://youtu.be/8KJwkgDltuI

**SpitballJedi** · 02-17-2016, 02:38

Actually, I've seen them and your videos are what actually gave me the new hope, especially the thread tension one. My bobbin housing was way too tight, but I haven't had time to mess with it again. Thank you.