15 Clone part question. What is this round chromed plug called?
 

Hi,

I have and have looked at a lot of images of type 15 clones from the 1950s. Some have the back side attached chrome 'plug' and others do not. These machines have reverse sewing and the front round plate with the lever stitch length selector.

What is this part called?
Is it just a dust cover?
Was it a standard part on all factory clones after 1948?

Anyone have an idea where to get one from a supplier?

Thanks,
Stefan

Does your New Home have that on the back?

The 15's and some clones just have an uncovered hole - so "Cap for Thread Take Up Lever Hole"

Janey - Neat people never make the exciting discoveries I do.

Does the plug come out? Are there gears behind it that need to be greased?

Generally there are no gears in that area, Just linkage for the needlbar that could use lube.

My 1976 clone has this on it but I don't think any of my 50s clones have one.

Cari

Are there screws? If yest, then, I would think it is just an access plate. Why one there, makes no sense to me.

No, I am not familiar with a plate in this area.

Is that for increased air circulation without letting foreign objects fall into the innards of the machine?

I can't imagine it needing air circulation.

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Hi Janey,

The 15's and some clones just have an uncovered hole - so "Cap for Thread Take Up Lever Hole"

Janey - Neat people never make the exciting discoveries I do.[/QUOTE]

Hi Janey,

I think it is a 7/8" access hole to access the large head machine screw on the presser foot shaft, IMO. There is an oiling hole or fitting above the take up lever. So I don't think it is an oiling hole.

Some class 15 clones have this cap (or plug/cover) and others do not in photographs. I think could also be a dust cover. It's not vented.

The one I have on one machine says "PAT 401043". US patent 401043 says that it is an "educational apparatus" ??? "PAT" is not for US Patent. Maybe that's a part number.

I tried to find this "cap" part with your description but it's not listed anywhere I could find under various combinations of terms. Oh well. Home Depot has metal 3/4" plugs that can be made to work.

Thanks again for your help and the others that posted. I'll keep looking for one.

Stefan

Many clones do not put anything there, FYI