auntlucy

What size and type of needle fits an old 27 treadle from very early 1900's? Trying to figure out if my Singer 27 actually works. It was my grandfathers. It was used in his cotton farming operation to make cotton sacks. It is not in good condition, but the wheel turns and I have managed to remove the shuttle and bobbin without difficulty. I'm in the process of cleaning and oiling. It has sentimental value.
Thanks for any help you can give.

J Miller

auntlucy,

I believe ( If I'm wrong someone will correct me I'm sure ) that the 27s take the regular old 15x1 needles.

Was there a needle in it when you got it? If so, then compare a new 15x1 to it and that should tell the story. If not then put a new needle in and slowly rotate the machine and watch how it works.

Joe

auntlucy

There is no needle in the machine. I see on ebay a listing for singer style 2020 needles that are supposed to fit the 27. Can't tell if these are the same as the 15 x 1

auntlucy

I have watched the video about cleaning up the old machine and now wonder what to get for the metal polish that she is using? I have silver polish and stainless steel polish but won't use those unless someone on here says it is ok

manicmike

I second what Joe guesses, they do take the universal/15x1/2020 needles.
Silver polish is perfect for the nickel plating, and did a great job on my 27.

ArchaicArcane

Correct. 15x1 needles. Almost any needle you'll find at a fabric shop /wally world, etc will fit.
Needle flat to the right, and thread from the left.

SteveH

You can also use white paste toothpaste. (works great)
I use Flitz metal polish for tough spots