Singer 185k
#2
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Join Date: Sep 2015
Posts: 1,963
It's a nice model, a 3/4 size machine, straight sticher only and basically an updated version of model 99. There's not really a down side to this model, but if you exceed it's limits regarding heavy materials and high speed it will start to vibrate and jump on the table. That said, it's quite a tough machine handeling most jobs with ease (including bumpy seams on jeans). In my experience you have to spend some time cleaning and oiling this model up to get it quiet, (but that's often the case with any model), there's often a lot of felted fluff under the bobbin case even if it looks clean on the surface (slide the bobbin cover plate completely off and there is a metal bit that lifts to the side and it releases the case). It can be noisy if the bobbin case is badly adjusted, but it's a case of adjustment and maintantace. Some of the 185K are in platic casings and time hasn't been good to them, they are often cracked and not easy to fix. The blond wood case version is very nice though.
Last edited by Mickey2; 05-01-2016 at 07:07 AM.
#6
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Join Date: Sep 2015
Posts: 1,963
#7
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Join Date: Jun 2012
Location: Sonoma County, CA
Posts: 4,299
If you need a simple, small straight-stitcher, 185's and 99's are great solid little machines. They're also pretty common so sometimes you can pick them up for a song. I lucked out and found a 185 at a thrift shop for $15, just needed a little cleaning up and works great. Someone else flat out gave me one of my 99's because it needed a new motor - $20 later and I have a very nice little 99!
Easy to find feet and accessories (any Singer low-shank side clamp feet will fit - very common), easy to work on, nice little machines. Easy to sew with, too.
Just be careful you don't accidentally get a 285 - they look nearly the same as the 185's but are very different underneath. They have a reputation for being loud and having a lot of vibration and are not well-loved. I haven't sewn on one personally but after seeing how they're made I don't doubt that a 99 or 185 sews a LOT smoother.
Easy to find feet and accessories (any Singer low-shank side clamp feet will fit - very common), easy to work on, nice little machines. Easy to sew with, too.
Just be careful you don't accidentally get a 285 - they look nearly the same as the 185's but are very different underneath. They have a reputation for being loud and having a lot of vibration and are not well-loved. I haven't sewn on one personally but after seeing how they're made I don't doubt that a 99 or 185 sews a LOT smoother.
#9
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Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 2,890
She didn't sell it. She wanted $100.00 for it, which I considered top end. I didn't want it that much. On the positive side, it was in a cabinet.
I'm still learning about values, models and condition. I have a lot to learn.
bk
I'm still learning about values, models and condition. I have a lot to learn.
bk
#10
Banned
Join Date: Aug 2014
Location: Victorian Sweatshop Forum
Posts: 4,096
If the machine is in really good condition, has accessories, etc. and the cabinet is nice, then $100 isn't too far out of line. The cabinets for 3/4 size machines are not not rare, but not something you find every day either.
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Lara122
For Vintage & Antique Machine Enthusiasts
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09-22-2012 07:22 AM