Can this machine be saved?
 

I went junking today and found a Red Eye treadle machine in a very nice 6 drawer cabinet. Asking price is $99. When I pulled the machine head up for inspection, the whole thing is locked up. The wheel won't turn, I couldn't tell if it had a bobbin (probably long shuttle) cause that plate, which moved sideways, was also not budging, the foot lever wouldn't even move. The machine is pretty & the serial # is GB 487764. Wondering if lots & lots of oil would work or if it's rusted shut. I couldn't actually see any rust.

Also, they had a portable BRUCE machine that weighed about a ton, it was in good shape and everything moved, but I don't know if it had a bobbin case or not. When I felt in there, all I got was a needle prick. It was too dark to see, but I know there wasn't a round bobbin in it. Asking price on the Bruce is $35.

Advice anyone? :)

The Redeye is a 66-1, and it takes a class 66 round bobbin. If it's got the slide plate (bobbin cover) that's a plus! (They're often missing because people put them on wrong and they fall off)

It's probably just gummed up with old oil, and some work and elbow grease will free it up. If the decals are good, the cabinet is nice, then $99 is a fair price. :) (I'd do it, and I'm a tightwad....right Miriam? :D )

Oh...and I don't know anything about the "Bruce".... sorry!

It takes more than age and non-use to destroy an old sewing machine. I'd much rather pay less than what you said, but if it's complete and in good shape other wise I'd give it a shot.

The Bruce sounds interesting.

Why don't you make the seller an offer to take both off his hands for a $100.00. Then we can see pics of Bruce.

Joe

The 6 drawer cabinet is worth more than the entry level four drawer and much prettier. I vote for getting it.

Sounds like it needs to be saved!!!

I would buy it, the Red Eye that is and I love them. Like Charlee said She just probably needs to be oiled up real good. If you see no rust that is a plus. I seen where someone suggested you offer $100.00 for both, go for it but if they won't take it go ahead and get the Red Eye, you won't be sorry. The Singe 66 is a great machine. Now all we need is Pic's so we can awe over them, lol.good luck :)

Because the Red Eye is all frozen up, you can't test it. Personally, I would offer less because of this. You didn't mention if the attachments were there, but because of the drawers, we can hope they are. If not, that is another reason to offer less. What it all boils down to is, how badly do you really want it? If it's worth $100 to you, then go for it.

Show us pics if you get it!