I'm just curious. I have my grandmother's old machine, complete with attachments, etc, and there is some oil in there. Is it still safe to use on the machine? The machine hasn't been touched in at least 30, and possibly as much as 50 years.

Thanks!

They say it's okay to use if it's still clear and colorless, but after 30-50 years I'd replace it just to be safe. New oil is way cheaper than any machine repair would be. ;)

would suggest replacing oil that old. too easy for it to have gotten water in it.

Yes, it does go bad, sort of. Eventually it starts to evaporate and gets thick and kind of dry.

The oil for machine should be clear if it is turning yellow get rid of it. If the machine hasn't been used in years have it service before using. The oil in the machine get thick and "gunky" servicing it will clean it up and make sure it is operating at its best. (Think about how bad a car runs when the oil in it is old.)

I agree, that it does break down...
look at it this way...a small cost for fresh oil versus a possible machine repair

Old oil does get bad eventually and gets sticky and can mess up your sewing machine.

my thoughts exactly. oil can thicken with age and the new oils are made better now too.

Oil is cheap. I would buy some new.

I don't think I would use it.