the VS stands for Vibrating Shuttle. the 2 is the second version of that technology.

Vibrating shuttle refers to the shuttle swinging back and forth under the two silver plates. Prior to this method, most machines used the TS or Transverse Shuttle movement which is the shuttle moving side to side from the perspective of the user.

steveH why the kidney shaped cut out on the back? the date on mine is 1893. thanks

That's an oiling access cover Esther. The kidney shape on earlier models (was changed to round later on) is probably because it's prettier. My 1891 VS2 also has a fiddle base, which is prettier than the rectangle. I'd be guessing but Singer may well have changed to simpler shapes to save money on tooling.
SteveH may know more about this.

ok that makes sense, i worked in manufacturing for years should have realized this thanks

Terrifying foot pedal!
 

Rusty, filthy and is that mouse fur? Attic-fresh indeed. A co-worker gave me a Pfaff 230 found in an attic. This is not its original footpedal. I cut it off with a scissors and - gasp - threw the pedal away!

I said I would not even plug it in, let alone try it, my DD said "I'd hit it with a stick from 10' first..."

I have been doing a restoration on a Singer 201-2. I have over 100 hours into this machine and it is finally done. I couldn't wait to share it.
Here is the before picture.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]424753[/ATTACH]

And here is the after picture.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]424754[/ATTACH]

I did extensive documentation on the restoration process while doing this machine. Unfortunately, I can't reproduce it here, but you can see the transformation on my page. the link is below.
~G~

So does treadling the 328's make them quiet(er)? I've heard them nicknamed "the tractor"...

I have one in my hallway that I've barely looked at but was interested in it for its treadling capabilities. Recently picked up a manual too. I'd love to know what you think of it as I can't decide whether to pursue it or not.

try turning it by hand

So...I finally got my Featherweight all cleaned & shiny. Thanks Muv! :thumbup: Now I want to use it but I don't want to destroy the decals on the front of the bed. Any suggestions?