helenquilt
 

I was just given an old all medal sewing machine. I love it but it is too tight. I can only turn it when using both hands. What do you use to losen it up? Also where can I purchase a new belt. It is a protable.

If you can, post a picture of the sewing machine. That will help us give you advice. Best thing you can do at this point is to give that girl several drops of sewing machine oil at every oil point(hole) you can find on top of the machine. Then go underneath and oil every spot that looks like it moves or rotates.

And don't force it. I'd say, wiggle it gently once you get the oil into every joint. Take it slow

Tri-Flow oil everywhere it moves, top - bottom and center. Let is soak, turn the hand wheel, give it more oil, turn the hand wheel. If it doesn't free up in a day or two get the hair dryer out and warm it up.
Don't force it. That can bend things.

Belts can be had at your local sewing machine shop or on line at lot of places. My favorite is Sew-Clasic { http://www.shop.sew-classic.com/ } They also have the Tri-Flow oil.

Like Caroline said, pics will help us ID the machine and give more specific answers.

Joe

Also check the bobbin area, for any build-up of lint or thread pieces.

Here is a post about one I freed up with Tri-flow
http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...r-t169127.html
I found that Triflow and waiting work wonders