Butterfli19

This machine was my first, about 40 years ago. It has been stored at my sister's for about 15 years and she finally brought it over and when I plug it in it does make noise, but no movement and the light is burned out. Also, she has lost the sewing discs so I wouldn't be able to sew decoratively unless I order them, if they still make them, but I don't want to do that until I determine if this machine will actually work again.

It's in a cabinet and I can't remove it but I want to try and get it running.

Since I've never attempted this before, I was hoping for some direction on where to start and what to do. I imagine I'll need sewing machine oil, but don't know if "one oil fits all" or if there is a difference.

Any suggestions?

J Miller

Oil everything that moves under the top, behind the face plate and under the bottom with sewing machine oil, or preferably Tri-Flow oil. After sitting for so long the old oil has solidified and seized up the machine. Also get some Tri-Flow grease or something similar to lube any steel or metal gears.
Once it's freed up then start cleaning everything. Get as much of the old oil residue out of it that you can so it doesn't resolidify. Then re-oil.

Expect to replace the belt too if it has an external motor. And don't forget to give the motor a drop or two of oil regardless of where it's at.

The cams can be had, I see a lot of them on Shop GW and eBay. You just need to figure out which cam it takes, there's four or five different versions.

The light bulb is a no biggie, they can be had most anywhere.

Joe

Butterfli19

Joe, do I use a rag to clean and lube?

DonnaMiller

Check the "stickies" at the top of the page. There is a good one on cleaning vintage machines. I use a stiff artist paint brush and TriFlo bicycle oil. Then wipe that on the rag. Get as much gunk off as possible. I use Tri Flo grease on all gears after they are clean. Try to find a manual for your machine. It is a recipe book for long life and happy usage of your machine. See if your sister has it. What Joes said about the cams for sewing patterns. I got mine on Ebay, but they are available other places too. Remember, take the needle plate off and get all the lint and debris out of the bobbin area. There I probably a lot o felt packed in that area. A computer vacuum is also a good idea. You can use it later too.

Rodney

Use either sewing machine oil or Tri-Flow. Oils like 3 in 1 oil are too thick.
Your machine is most likely just gummed up with dried oil. A good oiling with fresh oil or Tri-Flow and a little patience will have it spinning again.
Rodney

J Miller

Old Black Singers and others with the Japanned finish I use sewing machine oil and either a soft cloth or cotton balls.

Modern machines like your Kenmore I use the Lysol wipes. Cleans really great and disinfects the surface at the same time.

For the insides I use denatured alcohol , cotton balls, q-tips, and what ever it takes to get the old oil cleaned off. Then re-oil and grease.

You should buy or print out ( what ever it takes ) an owners manual appropriate for your machine. It will have oiling instructions and other valuable info.

Joe