Mickey2

You should be able to sort out the button controller, they are better than their repuation. Either way, a new controller is a very good way to get something to compare with. Replacement controllers can be a bit of a fuzz new or old.

I think a top condition 301 has around 1500 stitches per minute, few zigzaggers reach those speeds. My Supermatic is probably around that speed, and I think the old Husqvarna 19 and 20 (the green 1950s models) are on the speedy side.

I personally regard 1000 to 1500 stitches a minute fast, you have to search for special models that exceeds this range, especially domestic machines. I rarely floor the pedals on my fast machines.

I am pretty sure a 401 should do at least 1000 spm, but how close it comes to 1500 I don't know. For comparison, a lot of new computerised machines are in the 500-800 spm, if you need a faster machine you have to search out special models. An old belt driven 201 or a humble 99 are not slow at all compared to some current models. A 201 with a potted motor tend to be slower than a belt driven 201, something that surpised me. There was a thread on this a a couple of years a go.

With further oiling it might even improve more. I personally like experimenting with oils like TriFlow, and I have found a favorite is a bike oil Finish Line Ceramic Wet Lube. They both have teflon and at least makes my 201 run extra smooth. Some greases are more sticky than others, and the right grease can reduce friction. I haven't tried many greases, just the basic recommended ones.

I go on and on about this, I sort of just talk around the subject. I have been onto much the same with my machines ;- )