BelAir Bantam hand crank conversion
 

Ok...couldn't stand it, had to find one when told here they were aluminum.
This is the machine I've made for when Rob is fishing, hand cranking by the river, what could be nicer?

I got it off Goodwill auction site, I hope my snipe bid that last few seconds didn't hurt anyone's heart here..

Look at the tag that was under the machine! Now here is some added info about the BelAirs!

It took a good cleaning and a little wax. To convert it to hand crank I cannibalized my 128, it is just too heavy to be lugging to the river.
The Singer hand wheel was the same size as the mounting post so I took it to a machine shop and had it fitted. $16.00, not bad. I had to monkey with the tension a long time, but any sewing time is good, right?

I put a 1/4 inch foot on it, I noticed with the SewHandy a fabric guide is a good thing for straight sewing with a hand crank. And I added a BBQ light from Home Depot.

I think base and machine weigh about 18 pounds, will verify that, perfect for my intended use of taking fishing.

The case was filthy and I need a new setting hinge/post, but all in good time.
You know who you are, that enabled this, thank you :) I am totally in love.

edited to add: I totally dispise that plastic cranking handle...any other options out there?

Such a nice machine! You should be very happy with that one

Good job! Are you gonna take it to the TOGA? I'd love to see it in person.

Cari

I would too.
Rodney

Something came up and we can't get to Toga but if there is a local gathering like before I'll sure come up

Nice, it looks good and you did a good job on it. Hope it works out perfectly for you!

Sheri, this is a dream machine :) Look for one!

What TOGA are we talking about? I love that machine, made in Occupied Japan, had no clue there were any like that out there! Awesome.

Lynn this thread was started before the Seattle Toga. I'd still love to see this machine.

Cari

Okay, gotcha! darn I thought there was another TOGA! I didn't want to miss out.