I need some advice on how to set the tension on my Singer 201-2. It was working perfect, didn't change anything, and then the tension was too loose on top. The top tread sets on top of the fabric. No matter what setting I set it on, it is still too loose. Any ideas on how I can fit it myself?

If the top thread is sitting on top, maybe the bobbin thread is too loose. Try checking the bobbin to see that it is threaded properly.

The bobbin is treaded right. I checked that first.

It usually pays to start all over---remove-replace the needle,re-thread (completely)top thread. remove, rethread, replace the bobbin. right now,top tension is way too tight because it pulls the bobbin clear to the top. and bobbin may be too loose, but start with the top tension. only move 1/2 of a space at a time. willing to bet it is the bobbin.
you did not change threads ? change what thickness you are sewing on ? you may need to change the PRESSURE.

I had some bobbin tread jam, but I got it all. So is my problem with the bobbin tension and not the top?

If the top thread is lying on top of the fabric, the tension on the needle thread is way too tight - it's like a tightrope and all the bobbin stitches are just draped over it.

It sounds like you have the tension turned up as high as it will go? Dial the tension back a little about a quarter or half-turn at a time and see if you don't start getting a balanced stitch again after a few turns.

If not, then it's possible that the thread started hanging somewhere - it got wrapped twice around the tensioner or something.

Try re-threading the machine, making sure that the thread goes in between those tension disks, not outside them and that it flows in a clear path from the spool all the way to the needle - not wrapped around a spindle or anything.

If that fixes the problem, great. If not, then maybe the tensioner is improperly assembled or there is something gunky in the tension disks that's gripping the thread too hard.

The manual can show you how to take the tensioner apart - clean all the parts, especially those two silvery disks, and put it back together.

If you don't have a manual, PM me and I will send you a pdf of the owners manual and another pdf of the tension assembly. It's very easy to take apart and re-assemble. :)

Have fun!
Elizabeth

Make sure you are adjusting the tension with the presser foot DOWN as stated in the manual

I got it working right. DH was a wonderful help. It's back to sewing a perfect stitch.

So what fixed it? I am having a similar problem with an old 66 I had serviced.

I thought it was the top tread tension, but it was the bobbin tension. After a few very small turns with the screwdriver to the screw on the bobbin, we were able to go back and adjust the top tension and the tension was perfect again.