Linkbeth

I see the 301's as a totally different machine due to the gear drive motor, larger scale design and drop feed dog feature. They are a slant foot style and I believe their motor is stronger due to the gear driven quality. Their motors are not as removable and easily replaced as that of the FW
They share the flip up bed and decals and portability of the FW, as well as the placement of the bobbin.. (the more 'senior' members will be able to expand on this. If I am not correct, please re-direct in a gentle way)
..In all due respect know that I love the Featherweight and own them as well.
Having said all this, Would Antique Machine Enthusiasts might like a thread to discuss the 301's?
Does anyone else feel they should have their own discussion thread?

Happy Stitching All!

annthreecats

I just recently acquired a Singer 301 to go with my 401A and I'd love a discussion thread on this machine.

I haven't tried my 301 out yet, it's at the Dr. being serviced. I will pick it up tomorrow.

BarbaraSue

I just recieved my 301 beauty. I'd love to have a thread to talk about her and learn more about her. She sews like a charm, and so quietly. I'll post pics as soon as I get them.

annthreecats

Oh, can we talk about attachments, too? I got a boatload of attachments that I would love to have identified. I'll have to take pictures of everything I got with my 301 and see if anyone can tell me what they are. I'll have to do that tonight at home.

jljack

YAY!! I love my 301...have had it now for about a year. It was quite a mess when I got it...dirty, dry, no case, etc. She is battle scarred, but after I treated her with oil & motor lube and cleaned her from top to bottom, she sews great!! Her name is Miss Ida after my maternal grandmother. She's a black model from 1951.

As for the potted motor being "stronger" than the exterior motor, I don't necessarily think that is true. All the pre-1960s Singer motors were very strong, with all steel components. All the older machines can sew through just about anything with the right sized needle and some patience.

The 301s and FWs are unique in that they don't need any kind of case or base to sit in. They are completely portable on their own, both a cover plate on the bottom and little feet on the corners so they can sit right on a table. They are both lightweight (FW about 11 lbs, the 301 about 16 lbs), making them perfect for traveling companions.

The 301 has a delightful soft "click click click" sound while sewing. If it gets too loud, it needs to be oiled...and should be oiled at least once a week with heavy sewing, or twice a month for moderate.

I have noticed that the 301s sometimes have tension issues. There is ongoing discussion on this on the Vintage Sewing Machine Shop thread. Some people think the tension units need to be set up slightly differently than the other models. I am not sure. I know that my tension is set at 0, and it is just about right. I know it should not be like that, but after trying several different things, it doesn't get better. And this is a new tension unit. If anyone has suggestions, I would appreciate hearing them.

annthreecats

Found a thread with information about attachments. I think it covers all my questions. I'll have to go through it again when I'm at home and looking at all the attachments I got with my 301 and 401A.

Here's the link to the attachment thread here in VMS land: http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...d-t139458.html

tenngal

I have 2 of the 301's. I think they're great. I am keeping my black one and selling the two-tone. Would like to find a 401 and try it out. So many machines and so little time!

fluffygirl

I'm just the opposite. I have 2 401's and would love to find a 301!

Linkbeth

Would love to talk about attachements as well..have some books & I am sure forum members would be a great resource of knowledge. This is what the forum is about & I think this thread will be helpful in several areas.. chat away & let's enjoy what we can share regarding the 301's.

Happy Stitching All

miriam

Ha - I can pull a 301 motor in about 2 minutes unless the screw is stuck.