Use it before you buy it. Run the motor for at least a few minutes. To make sure the motor doesn't smoke! I just bought a 221 and I did run the motor for a second. Then when I got home to really test it out. It smoked. Turned out it had a lot of oil and old grease in the motor. I pulled the whole motor apart and cleaned it. Somewhat of an easy fix. But I bet I could have gotten a better price for it. Also make sure it has a bobbin case, and that the wheel turns easily.