Can I adjust the speed? 15 Clone
 

I have a 1940's 15 Clone. Commander (became Kenmore) model. The power cord and foot pedal have been replaced and the machine is working. Great stitch. My question is: Can it be slowed down? It seems to have 2 speeds, stop and GO GO GO. I don't really feel like I am in control. I read somewhere about maybe putting a chunk of wood under the pedal to limit the travel? Could that really be a fix?

Sounds to me like your foot control isn't doing it's job completely. Double check the machine's wiring to make sure it's correct (it probably is) and check the controller too. Maybe try a different controller if you have an extra.
Rodney

Seconded: Was the replacement new? Those Taiwanese oyster shell FCs are really good and give you a lot of control. If the FC is new is it Chinese? The Taiwanese ones cost more (they're about $40 here) but they have the advantage that they actually work. :rolleyes:

if you can find one of those cheap silicone hot pads / pot holders theyre great to put under foot pedals to keep them from traveling. theyre also easy to cleab.

try plugging the light in the motor receptacle of the cord block and observe whether it dims or only goes on and off. if it doesnt regulate, I'd replace the FC. Even some of the old style onez can work nicely. I've had newer solid state ones latch on.

I have had good results with disassembling controllers, cleaning and if possible adjusting them. I've also got excellent results with the electronic controllers. The only thing I don't like about them is they are all made from cheep plastic.

Joe

I don't have a light and I don't see any other kind of receptacle other than the one for the controler and power cord combo. The foot I bought is a Alphasew brand

This is the inside of my pedal. I have no clue what I am looking at.

I read that their stuff's made in China so I wouldn't touch it. Of course it might be working perfectly: Could you get your hands on another FC to try?

I've got three or four of those Alpha-Sew controllers and they all work good. I've never had to adjust any of them.
But perhaps this one needs it.

Joe