Always make sure there is a bobbin case if it needs one.I agree with Prism99. Take a scrap of fabric and spool of thread. If it is computerized I would find a plug in and put it through it's paces maybe throw a extension cord in your car just in case. Remember feet are expensive so the more the better.Getting the manual is always a plus

Check out the vintage machine thread for great info on all of the vintage machines. They are actually easier to take care of and definitely built to last! I discovered that one I had was actually classified by Singer as an industrial machine! Never considered it anything other than a regular home sewing machine.

So where is this great sale??? I might need to go! All the others have given you great advice. I've purchased a few machines used - mostly singers, either at yard sales, craigslist, whatever. Never had a problem with any of them and I won't pay alot of money for a vintage machine. I got my FW for $40 and my 66 Redeye for $50. Paid $35 for a 99-15. Just make sure everything turns and you can get everything that comes with it. If it's a vintage machine there's not much to go wrong with them that can't be easily (and reasonably) fixed.

I'm not sure I should tell you! You might beat me out of a deal!! haha. Its actually in Far Hills on Route 202. Its sponsored by the VNA (Visiting Nurses Assoc.) and is a major fund raiser for them. They hold it every spring and fall. They have all sorts of things and it draws in thousands of people.

Make sure you have your lifting muscles in good shape, cause the older machines are usually heavy. I envy you, that sounds like alot of fun. I love rummage sales, I have found great things there.

I'm with Lori S, I only buy mechanical machines at yard/rummage sales. If I buy a used computerized machine, I always buy it from a dealer because they will generally give me a 1 year warranty. If it looks good, if you can turn the wheel, if the obvious parts are there (bobbin case, stuff like that), and it's really cheap you won't be out much if you do have to get it serviced. I always take a bag with thread, scissors, fabric so if I can plug a machine in and test it, I have the means to test it.

I have bought lots and lots of sewing machines at yard sales or on Craigslist. Everyone has given great advice. Although I have bought a couple of computerized Vikings and they have been fine. I figure if I pay 25.00 for a computerized machine and it only works for a few months, I have not lost too much. But I have never had that problem. You might want to get the persons word that they work and that they will take it back if you are not happy about it. I think looking for good brands is important. I would not pay 20 bucks for a machine I know only costs 100 or less at Walmart, if you know what I mean. Although I have picked up a few cheaper models that were new in the box for next to nothing. I usually make sure they are in good working order and then pass them on to someone that needs a machine.

Good Luck, hope you find a good one!

I know of the sale you speak of... the Visiting Nurses Rummage sale...
I can add some first hand experience for you on this one.
My parents have volunteered there for years and my mother is in the electronics department. All of their machines are tested before they are sold. They have a woman that fixes anything that is wrong with them. When you buy a machine from them, you know it's working when you purchase it :)

As a fyi they sell a lot of irons. She says the Rowentas are always junk when they come in. They rarely work. Go figure. I usually get a lot of behind the scenes info about what is being donated so if you ever are looking for something in particular, you can drop me a line.
Oh and the bread machines in that department? My mother takes home every single one of them, cleans them and makes a loaf of bread in it - which she usually brings in for everyone to eat while they work :)

I bought one at a garage sale recently for $15. had her plug it in and it seemed to work. got it home and the feed dogs appeared to be working but didn't move the fabric. My boyfriend took the plate off and lubed it and it works fine. he also downloaded a manual from the internet free. i just would spend a lot on a machine at a sale like that without plugging it in. Maybe take a scrap of fabric along to test it on, and having the manual is great