Right, a cable to go to the light, that makes perfect sense. I'm very much looking forward to learning what your mechanic finds out. Fingers crossed that it's something minor

One final thought, on a model 15 I worked on some time ago the feed dog lowering screw was completely frozen. I'm wondering whether if there's an issue with that mechanism, it might freeze the machine. To lower the feed dogs, one loosens the screw and flips down a lever. Yours looks like it has a fair bit of oil varnish on it. Does that mechanism move properly?

It was stuck in position at first but I was able to get it freed up after oiling it and letting it sit. It moves freely now. I appreciate your brain storming on this machine, thank you!

You're very welcome, this has been a fascinating problem. Can't wait to find out what your mechanic's diagnosis proves to be!

Success! The expert sewing machine repairman found the problem was in the bushings on the lower shaft. They were stuck with hardened oil, apparently a previous owner used the wrong oil! He cleaned the bushings, and had it running beautifully before he left. It now has a perfect stitch.

Congrats!!!! Thanks for sharing this. I'll make sure I check those when I start on my stuck 15-91.
bkay

What she said. I'm glad you came back an posted what it was and that it now sewing.

This is a very good sewing machine. Have you seen https://sewalot.com/singer_201k_sewalot.htm ?

Janey - Neat people never make the exciting discoveries I do.
Not affiliated with off-site link(s)

No I haven't seen that page. Thank you for sharing it, very interesting page.

Congratulations! Delighted to hear that you now have this machine is working again as it should! Thank you for posting the results.