Stitch length ?
 

Can the stitch length be shortened on the treadle I just bought? It seems quite long and I really would like to try some piecing with it. Also the Belt is very very dried out so I'm wondering if I should do any thing to soften it. I don't know what it is made of.

You should be able to adjust the stitch length, what is your machine? What year was it made?

As for the belt, you can try a leather conditioner on it, but you can also buy a new one. They're less than $10, usually...send a PM to Mizkaki (Cathy). Personally, I just use a leather bootlace to replace my belts...they work for me. :)

The model number is AC765383. According to what we could find it was made in 1929.

Looks a if your machine is a singer 66. There should be a knob on the right of the machine that will adjust the stitch length. Turn all the way in it is a larger stitch open it out and the stitches get shorter.

That serial number belongs to a Mdl 66. On the pillar just above and to the right of the oval badge and below the bobbin winder is a large chrome nob. That is the stitch control. All the way in is the longest stitch, screwing it out shortens the stitches.

They can gum up and get stiff from old oil, dirt, and then you need to oil them from the front and pull the plate off the back and oil it from there too.

Joe