SteveH

To add to that... remember that cast iron is somewhat fragile and cleaning it by hand introduces a lot of opportunity to damage it.

I recommend after cleaning of any sort to apply a rust preventative as a "wash" and dry prior to painting. Cleaned iron is "hungry" for moisture and is VERY prone to rust quickly. Then apply a primer, and then several light coats of paint. I was told that at the Singer plant they used flat paint and gloss clear coat for protection and depth. I used that process myself and it came out great.

I would recommend removing the cone shaped bearings that the unit pivots on and cleaning out the cavity they ride in as well as the cones themselves, apply grease (I use automotive axle grease) and then reassemble. Treadle-on has a GREAT write up on the whole restore and tune process.