I looked at an American treadle machine with a coffin top. They are asking $40 for it. Is it worth it? I am not sure if it still works or not.

Sounds like a good deal, if it works.

For that money I would jump on it, if it looks like all the parts are there, and the cabinent is in decent shape. I would tinker with it and get it to work :D:D:D

How does the cabinet look ? It will show if it was cared for. Also working is a must. I bought a Singer treadle machine that only needed a belt which was shipped to me in 2 days from California. One reason I like old singers besides the fact that is what I learned to sew on, it's that Singer has a wonderful website that can tell you when and where it was made if you have a serial # . Mine turned 102 last year!!!

The lady thought it still worked. The cabinet is in very good shape. The machine is very tiny looking. The coffin part is in excellent condition.

Sounds like a cool machine!

unless it's rusted solid and all the parts are there, I'd jump on it!
I paid $129 for the Pfaff 30/31 a few months ago...

Are you wanting it for display or to actually use? If you want it to display, then all you need is for it to look pretty! :)

To use? Make sure the "innards" are all there...bobbin case/carriage, the shuttle, tensioner, etc. Turn the wheel and make sure the needle moves up and down, etc.

For $40, I'd jump on it...

I just want it for display. I love older machines and the history that goes with them. I am guessing that the name is America. That is what was on the treadle.

All you need to make sure of is that it's pretty then! :)

After you get the machine, go thru it and clean and oil it, just for preservation's sake. Oh...and hook the belt up and run a piece of fabric thru it. Do just one seam....

I'm betting that you'll want it for more than display then! ;) :lol: