I have a Singer Improved Manufacturing machine dated 1891 on a treadle base. In my search to locate restoration parts I found parts for what I believe is a knee brace but I am not sure if it would have been original to this machine. First the pivot trunnions appear to be shorter in height than ones I have seen in photographs. This shorter height required a rectangular hole cut in the drip pan as shown in the attached photograph. The second photo shows how it looks installed. Any thoughts? I have a duplicate drip pan without the hole.

Chec with Victorian sweatshop forum

Are you sure that is not to be used for lifting the presser foot? I've seen plenty that were set up like that but had additional linkage on them. that linkage went up on the outside of the back of the machine and hooked into the foot lift lever, so when you use your knee to move the lever, it lifted the foot. It's a very small motion to do so. One feature that I really love having.

yep, it is a presser foot lift. Once you get used to it, it is amazing how fast you can turn a corner that way.

Agree presser foot lift. This bar I circled in red is part of it.

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Thanks for your reply. I do not sew but am restoring a machine that belonged to my grandfather. Is there any where I can learn how this attachment functions and/or assembles to the machine? The cast iron lever does not have any attachment holes. Does it simply press on something attached under the machine and the rod you circled thus lifting the machine?

Would the hole in the drip pan have been cut when the presser was added?

Thanks Steve. As you know I don't sew and am learning about the operation of this machine every time I ask a question. I have the tailor top completely finished.

Cathy, appreciate the info. I am just learning as this is a restoration project.

If you could post pictures from the back side of the machine and maybe from under the table we might be able to help more. Also a bottom shot of the sewing machine would be helpful.

Thanks your explanation has helped quite a bit. Re-looking at the pivot arm there is a tapped hole in the end but it is missing the screw. Would this possible have been a set screw?