Tough Choices..which thread injector to choose

[Toxic]

Hi Guys. I just bought an old singer 215 today for dirt cheap(10 bucks lol) but it didnt come with a foot pedal or power cord. I figured i could wire it up to 110v no problem but didnt realize it need a pedal..LOl.i am a total noob. Soo i get to researching and bow have a chocie to make. I can get a singer retro rocket 500J for 100 bucks or get a 401a for 200. Both look to be in excellent shape and both come with their respect kits of extra parts.. I am not sure which one to go with and am wondering what you fellas use. Thanks

[rushashanti]

I have a '57 401A that I got with a 42 cabinet for $15. It was luck (or fate) because a person came in right before and due to a short in the cord it didn't work and since the stitch knobs wouldn't turn, she passed. Both were easily fixed and I absolutely love that machine. I have now added all 24 cams, an automatic buttonholer plus the 10 templates, and a slew of presser feet. Yeah, I got it bad.

[Toxic]

Hahah..That is an awsome score. I am leaning more towards the 401 as well. No trouble sewing sil nylon or other thin slippery materials?

[SpitballJedi]

I'm not knowledgeable at all in this area, but my gut says get the 500J for $100.

There's one near me for the same price and if I can't get this Brother going, I may purchase it.

I suggest having the person show you it works before purchase. Service in my area ain't cheap.

[rushashanti]

No problems with silnylon or other materials. I have used an even feed foot as well as the straight presser foot. There seems to be a little more pucker with the straight stitch, but not bad. Needle size makes a big difference of course, but I really dig it. Looks cool, sounds loud and powerful and does a good job. The 500 Rocketeers look cool as well. Very similar to the 401. If working, I don't think you could go wrong with either. They are built like tanks and there are enough enthusiasts and information on YouTube that you can get a lot of your answers online. Great luck, they are fun to play with.

[Toxic]

I ended up finding a cheaper 401 for 125 that looks to be in better shape than the other one i was looking at..Anywho this is the thread injector camping gear putting outer..I have never sewed before in my life but i have run and owed full size lathes..how hard could it be eh..LOL..i have a feeling there is gonna be a steep learning curve here..LOL401.JPG

401aa.JPG

[dperk]

Keep it cleaned up and lubed. It's an awesome machine.

Google "singer 401 service manual" for help adjusting it (if needed).

User manuals are available on Singer's website. http://www.singerco.com/uploads/down...9bfb86924c.pdf

Outside of cleaning and oiling mine, I replaced the brushes in the motor and it's like new again.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPfCADyz_rE


Good luck with the machine! I hope it injects all you want it to.

[SpitballJedi]

Watch these videos by Tac Blades. They are very helpful and helped me a great deal.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KJwkgDltuI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SHYfcgiQ2DU

[Toxic]

Thanks for the links. I really like the videos by TacBlades. He makes some very good videos..I am sure i will have more questions when i get my machine in a week or so..LOL

[Toxic]

Thank you Dperk for the manual..i am sure i will be referencing it!