FW problems
 

Problem #1: I took off the soleplate to clean under it and now cannot get either of the screws to go in straight or engage more than half way. I tried to screw them in without the plate, used a drop of oil, changed screws.....

Anyone have any ideas?

Problem #2: How difficult is it to replace the stitch length guide that moves up and down. (It is bent and I cannot move it all the way up or down.

These are on two different machines so if I can fix one, the other machine will be the "parts" machine.

Sounds like the screws went in cross threaded. Try turning the screw backwards until you here/feel it click in then start turning it the correct direction. Try this on any machine screw and nut for practice. Once you get the feel of it, you will always be able to start machine screws.

Problem #2 Try number 2 on this list first. I just wrote this instruction as I removed a stitch regulator. The screws are in very hard and take firm steady pressure to remove. Be sure your screwdriver fits the slot correctly before starting.

Removing stitch regulator on Singer 221
1. Set stich regulator at about 12 or 15. (If possible.)
2. Turn the stitch regulator thumb nut to the left to back it away from the stitch indicator plate.
3. Remove the two stitch indicator plate screws.
4. Remove the stop screw from the stop motion clamp screw. (Small screw in back of hand wheel.)
5. Remove the stop motion clamp screw. (Large chrome nut in center of hand wheel.)
6. Mark the location of the stop motion clamp washer and the stop motion bushing, with a felt pen. This will make the correctly replacing washer easer. (If washer falls off the inside teeth point out.)
7. Remove hand wheel by pulling it out. (Pull gently and wiggle it as you pull if stuck.)
8. Remove regulator hinge screw along with the spring washer. (Take note of how the spring washer is placed with the little teeth facing forward towards the machine.)
9. Remove the feed regulator and the indicator plate both at the same time. (Pull forward wiggling as you pull.)
10. Replace all parts in reverse order.
11. Clean and place a drop of oil on the stop motion bushing before replacing hand wheel. (Bushing the wheel sets on.)

Both machines sound very reparable to me. You may find any parts you need on line and have two featherweights. Feel free to PM me if you have questions.