Singer 201-2 inconsistent stitches
 

While test driving a 1952 Singer 201-2 I noticed when I played with the stitch length and went to the smaller and the larger end of the stitch spectrum the threads did not seem locked, guessing bobbin tension was off?? I am not familiar with the horizontal bobbin and the seller did not have a manual to refer to.
When sewing in the 10 stitch range the top and bottom stitch looked great.
I am hoping this is easily remedied but where to start??
TIA for any feedback!
Jo A.

Decals and shellac look great, many accessories, in a cabinet that is in okay-good condition.

The Singer 201 is a great machine. My son takes care of any mechanical problems with my machines -- he worked as a SM Mechanic for 14 years. I do have an Adjuster's Manual for the 201-2, but I would have to have an e-mail address, other than trying to send a pm with the manual -- that won't work. Also, you can download the operator's manual for the 201 from the Singer website, free.

EDIT: These vintage machines are very easily maintained by the user/owner!

99% of the time a good thorough cleaning and oiling will solve this machines issues. This includes removing the bobbin case and cleaning under it. Not a particularly easy thing to do if you've never done it before, but a 201-2 is sooooo worth it.

Cari

I have not had an opportunity to play/work out any kinks, just thought it was an odd problem. Not sure where to start to work through it..
I have been pining for a 201-2 for a long time. I have the 15-91, which is a vertical bobbin with bobbin case.
Thanks so much for the offer, save yourself, I'll get a free one from Singer.

I don't think the Adjuster's Manual is free.

Cari-in-Oly: Cool, I have been watching and waiting for so long...

Ebay has some Original manuals, I will probably end up getting one.
I did print out an owners manual for my 15-91 a 2-3 of years ago. Owners manual is what I am really wanting if that is different from an Adjusters manual.

It should stitch perfectly at full stitch length. I have had a similar issue with reverse stitch a few times, but I managed to sort it out. It might not be very difficult, but it can be lots of work to clean up an old 201. I have fixed up two and the bobbin / hook / race / feed area needed lots of attention; cotton swabs, tooth picks, etc., scraping out muck from corners and polishing metal parts. Grime behind the needle clamp can cause problems too.

With the 201 make sure the bobbin is in the correct way; the thread is properly in the tensioin spring; the needle inserts with the flat side to the left and threads from right to left. Match thread weight and needle size well. You have probably been through it all with your model 15. The bobbin case on the 201 is a bit tricky to take out and clean, but the illustrations in the manual is very good. The tension is a bit more fuzzy than on a 15 and needs to be just so for certain types of work like free motion. It's all about getting to know it's finer points and like other's have mention it's not difficult.

This one is good quality on my screen. There are a few service manuals available too

Wow, Did not know there was two different manuals, assumed an Owners manual told all. Yep, thinking I will need an adjusters manual too.

Mickey2, Thank you!! The links totally cleared up my thinking!!