Singer Clone - Ambassador/Damaged case
 

Good Morning!

I have been wanting to snag a Singer Clone and I finally got one. It was $11 on ShopGoodWill.com. The machine arrived and looks really good however, the base is damaged.

While I have been wanting to start working on restoring machines, now that I have one that needs help, where do I even start? I don't have tools but my mom still has all my dad's tools (lost him about 6 years ago) which I am sure I can raid.

I don't have a clue where to start. Is anyone interested in being my coach? I did see Joe's post about restoring a base. I may need to do this step by step and between working full time and keeping track of my 88 year old momma, it could take some time.

I know that my very first step is removing the machine from the base. I program computers for a living and have had to pull apart my long arm to make minor repairs. I can do this, I just need a mentor or coach.

What do you think? Will you guys help me on my journey?

Hopefully, my request for a mentor or coach is not out of line? I sure don't want to offend anyone.

You aren't offending anyone. Someone will be along soon to help you. I can't, but there are lots of people on here who are willing to help.

Gail,

If you want to switch to emails it will be easier and I'll help you all I can. We can stay here too if you want.

To fix the case, you take out the machine, 4 screws, then peal back or remove the fabric covering. Figure out where each piece goes then get some glue, I use Elmer's Carpenters Wood glue, and piece each part back where it came off of. I used lots of clamps to hold it together while the glue dried and I also use the barbed panneling nails to help. Them things hold good and won't back out.

As for the machine, brush out the lint and debris, clean off the excess old oil then re-oil. I use Tri-Flow to get the old oil flushed out of the linkage, shafts, bearings, and for the initial test runs. It's great stuff.

Joe

Joe, thank you! I will switch to email, unless anyone is interested in following my adventure in repairs?

I can do this, the problem is figuring out where to start and not screwing it up. I don't think the case is a complete goner but definitely needs help. The bottom is lose also. I will take a picture once I get the machine head out and can flip the case.

After I posted all the pictures I was worried that what I was asking for was inappropriate. It is one thing to ask a question and get help, another to hope that someone will help you with a project. Ugh.

Let me get the machine head out, and get some carpenter glue. I will go see if my dad also has some clamps hidden down on his work bench. He would love that I am doing this. If not, off to the hardware store to get some!

Gail,

See if you can find some 3/16" plywood too. I'd suggest replacing the bottom with plywood and getting rid of the particle board stuff.

Joe

ooh, i have a little something to add. wipe down the outside with dish soap like dawn and water. just like washing a dish. then dry and start oiling. that way you remove some grime before really getting into the gritty stuff. :-)

I think the machine head is good. The hand wheel turns freely. I have not tried turning it on yet. I was too whooped from work last night to do more than unpack and notice the damaged case.

Okay, I will pick up Tri-flow, Elmer's Carpenter Glue and 3/16" plywood and panel nails. This is going to be fun. Of course, I have come to the realization that I am not truly sane.

Then you are truly one of us. :D

Oh thank goodness! I was getting a little worried there.