Originally Posted by
path49
Just unscrew the tension screw on the bobbin case....be careful not to drop that tiny screw! Then lift off the tension spring. You might find lint/thread under there. If you do, that was your problem. After I take the spring off, I usually soak it (& the spring) in alcohol & clean with a q-tip. Make sure it's good & dry before reassembling.
By the way, don't put any oil between your tension disks....I think you said you used SMO to clean the tension. It can leave a gummy film that will just get stickier over time. Again use alcohol.
If you work with your bobbin case in a zip bag and have a magnet in there it might help keep track of the little pieces. Use some rubbing alcohol to clean the tension. Clean the pin, too. No SMO on the tension. YOu can use SMO on the base of the machine. Muv has a video about how to clean up the antique sewing machines. It is in the sticky notes at the top of the page. LINK:
http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...v-t167789.html She has a ton of videos and info plus she has a very well done blog.