MrsDerf

I have a an opportunity to purchase a 1923 Singer Red Eye sewing machine with the cabinet for a really good price. Here is the catch. During the conversation the gentleman said it was on the barn and snowed in so I have to wait for a bit to se it. The pictures look good. He said it ran when they put it out there. It is electric. Is this something I want to drive two and a half hours to buy? Are there any questions I should ask before taking this long of a trip? What should I do?

Candace

Ask for photos.

miriam

maybe if it is free

pojo

I would want more information on it. pictures.

and don't go by yourself either.

Macybaby

I've driven a lot farther for a machine I wanted at a good price. So it all depends on what works for you. I do agree - don't go by yourself - especially if you need to load a treadle machine LOL!! OK, take someone mainly for safety - but help lifting is great to have too.

And if you haul it, take the machine OUT of the cabinet no matter what. Even if it's the type that raises and lowers, take it out. We hauled one like that thinking it would be safe, but the mechanism managed to get jostled enough that it released and let the machine "Lift" and while the machine was fine, it really scuffed up the underside of the flip up cover.

Opps - I see that it is electric, so it won't be near as heavy to deal with. Still I'd advise taking it out of the cabinet.

nanna-up-north

If it got snowed on I would want to be able to plug it in to see if the motor works. Pictures are nice but if it's not running you won't know unless you try it.

And, yes, take someone with you.... some big guy that can help load and be an imposing force. I take my son with me. He's super strong and even though he's a gentle soul, he looks like he can throw a punch..... and he can.

Also, I always take my tools with me. If I have to take a machine out of the cabinet and disconnect the wiring, I take pliers, screwdrivers, colored electrical tape, a pen and paper to write down what colors to connect. Having thread, machine needles, fabric is a must as well.

We're all excited for you.... let us know what you decide to do, okay?

MrsDerf

I saw a plc of it before it was stored in the barn. He said no called on it except for me. It was listed for only three days. He was happy for me to have it because I planned to use it and keep it. He took the listing off line and is holding it for me. My husband and grandson are going with me and my cellphone will be in my hand. He is going to get it out of the barn before we get there. I will ask him to have it perhaps in the drive so we will in sight of the public. He is asking $40 for it plus we will some expense in getting out but I told my hubby we will call it a recreational road trip. Thank you all for the help.

csharp

If it is electric I wouldn't attempt to run it till the motor was room temperature unless someone has been there done that and it turned out okay....just an idea. Love my 66.,,,just wish it had a reverse...mine is also a 1923, but is a portable with the bent wood dome top. Enjoy.

amcatanzaro

Price sounds good to me. Go get it. Post pictures when you get back.

miriam

hopefully the guy won't try to clean it for you and ruin the decals