I just found a Singer 401A in the thrift store yesterday that was given to me for free by the manager because the cam stack and the gears are completely frozen up. I almost didn't take it, even though it was free, because it was THAT frozen...Nothing would budge. But I have heard only positive reviews on this particular model, and it seems to sell for hundreds on ebay so, I took it with me. Free? Vintage? 401A? Say no more!!
It only came with the controller foot, and no manual, feet, or cams. I took it directly to the sewing dealer/repair center that I just had my Viking Husqvarna 6020 cam stack replaced on, and she quoted me $90 to get it unfrozen and fully serviced. Today I found a Singer 503A in the thrift store for $15.00 and it is in sad condition (top lid is off (although I do have it), side door hangs by only 1 hinge, and it is filthy inside and out. What really motivated me to purchase it is that it has the cams (I got home and counted 1 through 21, with #18 missing) and the accessories box with manual, feet, and extra needles, so honestly, that was the only reason I purchased the 503A (to get my hands on the attachments and cams). Now that I have read this review, I think I will have it fixed up. It will be nice to have the features of both machines
