Thank you for the comments. This is my first collectible and have enjoyed getting to know how the machine works. I am still figuring out the details to get a good, reliable stitch with the proper thread. I know there are limits, but my hope is to be able to use a #20 needle with #69 polyester thread for vinyl work (2-4 layers).
I really ended up taking a liking to these older machines and their functionality. I also just bought a Singer 15-91 that is mechanically gear driven. I ended up doing a quick Google search on Craigslist for the 15-91 and there was one not too far from me and about 5 minutes away from my father. He looked at it this morning and appeared to be in excellent working condition and well kept. The seller knew he had a good machine and was firm at $80, no table, just a case.
So, I just went for it and now have two machines.