Need mechanical advice for 1980's Pfaff Tipmatic.
 

I bought my sister in law, who is just learning to sew, a Pfaff Tipmatic 1047, which I believe to be completely mechanical. Doing so was already outside the budget, so taking it in for professional servicing is out of the question. If I recommend she does it, she won't. I have the top and end panels off the machine, and I'm seeing holes in the moveable "joints" of the machine that look like oil holes. Dare I put a drop of Singer or Bernina sewing machine oil in those holes? I also have TriFlow...Dare I lube the gears? The machine sews beautifully, but I think it's a little loud. That's why I'm considering this. HELP! :)

Go here and see if there's a free manual for you to download http://s2.vsmgroup.com/VSM/Pfaff/pfaffmanual.nsf

The site is kind of wonky. You have to select the model number a few times, pick English etc. but it's free!! The manual should tell you where to oil.

I have often fixed up vintage machines for use, and typically I would put one drop of oil in each "hole", just in case. I usually just add some lube to the gears rather than trying to remove old lube first. I have never used TriFlow, although I have read about it; would have to research that thoroughly before trying.

However, the Pfaff Tiptronic is a really nice machine, so I'd do a little research first. I'm sure there is a vintage Pfaff group on groups.yahoo.com that you can join. Those groups typically have specialists who will give you very accurate advice on how to clean and oil a machine.

How fortunate to have a wonderful machine. I totally wore mine out and have 3 newer Pfaffs, but the old ones were made in Germany and work beautifully.

I spoke to a sewing machine repair guy and he said to put a drop of oil into the holes....so I did and it sounds quieter to me. I can't wait to give it to her. :) Thanks to everyone who replied.