I have the same machine and plan to do the same thing with it one of these days! Kmoulton, look for the weight of the machine - it should run around 20 pounds, while the full size machines are around 38 pounds. This is including the case. Apparently there are aluminum Singer 99's, as well, but I've never seen one for sale. The 301a is nice and light, too, and you could probably put a hand crank on it.

OK, thanks for the quick reply.

If you've dealt with some sellers you might understand my frustration about having them send enough info. I found one but the seller included a poor blurry picture from the backside with the cord wrapped all around and the light obscuring the complete name.

I asked for more pictures and got a serial number instead, grrrr LOL

Yes, thank you, I was trying to do my own research to help the seller get me the correct information.

Unfortunately I'm depending on a seller sending me information as I cant see it in person. I know what to look for in person.
I'm intending on converting it to hand crank as well. I currently have a 66 and a 15 hand crank, I've decided I need a bantam too. LOL

Margaret, I have to ask, are you still celebrating your bday? 301 doesn't have a motor boss.

Cari

I've looked on the internet and see a couple different presser foot tensions controls, does anyone know about a resource for a manual on the differences. One I was looking at as an odd looking tension control, I cant tell if its OE or broken or replaced

Cari, what a question!! Of course I am :D

If you are still talking about a bantam, the image in post #11 is pretty high res, are you on a computer with the ability to stretch the image with your fingers?

Ooooh, I saw that one! Very strongly considered bidding. Glad it went to you! Congrats!! :)

I didn't bid, the seller was very slow to respond and I had big concern about adequate packing and no case or attachments. I'd rather spend a little more and have a case, maybe some feet.

I should have bid on another I saw that was more complete, but didn't want to impose on my sis in law to fetch and ship to me.

There will be another ;)

Mine came from goodwill auctions about 50 miles from me, and I picked it up in person. forty bucks and gas.