Originally Posted by
Vetteman61
...The number on the bottom of the chrome plate, in front of the needle and foot is: 2712025. I am assuming this is a serial number?
Yes, that is the serial number. Davis serial numbers are not documented very well, but some have come up with some probably good estimates. I'm guessing that would put it about 1912 or 1913.
Originally Posted by
Vetteman61
... My first question is could someone guide me to information on the appropriate methods to service and lubricate the machine before use?
For general machine cleaning there is a sticky in the vintage section
How to Clean Up and use a vintage sewing machine - videos by Muv and Fav
Generally, as for the main painted and decals of the machine, it is advised to just wipe with sewing machine oil and soft cloth or cotton balls. Many so-called cleaning products will ruin the decals. Lubricating is just applying oil to parts that move (or should move).
Originally Posted by
Vetteman61
... Here are the attachments that came with the machine. I numbered them in the picture below. If someone could help me to understand what each one is for or what each one is called I can look it up online and hopefully learn how to use them
Some of these have been identified by others. Items 5 & 11 are part of the "gauge and self sewer" which I believe was patented by Barnum. As QuiltMom2 said, 2, 3, 4 are to make rolled hems of different widths and replace the front slide plate when in use.
Many can be identified in the manual that is linked at
Info on a Davis for a complete noobie There is another manual for an older VF machine that may have similar attachments
http://ismacs.net/davis/manuals/davis-vf-manual.pdf
I think that is a neat screwdriver #15 as there are several different size screws on the machine.
Number 16 would be a presser foot, but not sure if it would be for cording or something else.
Originally Posted by
Vetteman61
... Two of the drawers had something that I'm not sure is original or something that has been added. One had a piece of wood with some holes in the top that were holding small spools of thread. The other drawer had a thicker piece of wood in the bottom. The wood had slots cut vertically across the top into one end of it and felt was pushed down into the slots. My guess would be that this is a place to stick needles into.
Yes, the small spools of thread are the long shuttle bobbins and go into the shuttle (the picture of the item not included with other the attachments). And many cabinets had those holes for holding the bobbins.
I'm guessing that the slots with felt stuffed down would hold at least some of the attachments so that they would not get tangled together and bent.
I think you got a good deal, Congratulations.
Janey - Neat people never make the exciting discoveries I do.
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