Joe, I had the same problem with my 401. Make sure that the needle is in correctly. I reinserted the needle the wrong way three times in a row and mine was doing the same thing. I had the needle hole 45 degrees off. If that is not it check to make sure that the thread is going between the upper tension disks and not next to them. (I've done that too) And make sure that the tension disks are clean. There should be three disks. ~G~
Originally Posted by
J Miller
Singer 500 is breaking it's top thread constantly.
OK, machine is a derelict that someone has messed with a bit and has some missing parts.
I have found enough parts to put it back in action:
Oiled and greased everything that moves.
Freed up the cam stack selectors.
Cleaned the hook area and the bobbin case.
Adjusted the bobbin case tension, there was none when I got it.
Adjusted the top tension, it was too tight.
Put in brand new unused needle.
The needle to hook timing is good.
The top and bobbin tension looks good when it sews.
After about an inch or two you'll hear a crunch, then a couple more stitches another crunch and the top thread breaks.
I'm not sure what's gonna become of this machine, but I want to see if I can make it sew before we make our decision.
Anybody have any ideas on what else to look for?
Joe