What Singer is this?
 

I found this on CL in northern CA. Is it worth an hour drive to get it.

http://chico.craigslist.org/atq/4987129160.html

Has a potted motor but not like a 201. Not a 15 either.

Thanks,

Ethel

Ethel,

It's a Singer 101. Singer's first dedicated electric machine. They are way different than a lot of Singer machines. Neither of mine are functional at this point, they need work, so I can't give you an opinion on how they perform.

Others here say theirs sew slow. The slide plates and other parts are going to have to come from a used parts source, as I've not found any reproductions. One of my machines needs one too.

It uses Class 66 bobbins, is a horizontal rotary hook, and uses regular low shank feet and attachments.

If it was complete, I'd say go for it at the asking price. Since it's not, I'd say talk them down as much as you can if you want it. I just might be a jewel in disguise.

Joe

More info

http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...s-t188341.html

It's my daughter's machine that is slow. I haven't diagnosed whether the problem is in the machine or the controller though. Too many other priorities. It does make a very pretty straight stitch. Singer didn't make them for very long and they are Singer's first electric only machine so they're interesting in that sense.
I'm not sure if that stand was available when the machine was new. I think the stand might be newer than the machine. When I checked about a year ago I found a slide plate for around $10. I'm not sure what a new shade for the light would cost. Just things to consider in the cost.
Rodney

Ethel, I tried to find the manual on ISMACS, but it's not there. It's available for download on the Singer website for $10.00. :( It should be free!

Jeanette

What is a potted motor?
 

"Has a potted motor but not like a 201. Not a 15 either." I never heard of a potted motor and wondered just what this is. Is it a good thing or a bad thing? Carol

Motor is mounted onto the machine and directly drives the hand wheel, rather than having a drive belt.

Manual is at http://www.sil.si.edu/DigitalCollect.../NMAHTEX/2682/

I loved mine until it just stopped sewing one day. They are much harder to work on than the other black Singers like the 66, 201, 15's because the bottom is not as accessible. I think DH said the motor was hard to get to also. Because of that, we have chosen to not repair, but rehome ours. Love the table the one you are looking at is mounted in!

The owners manual says you have to remove the motor to do a complete and proper lubrication job on the machine. Gives instructions on how to do it to. Can't be that hard if the owners manual says to do it.

The bottom cover (bed) is held on with screws. Not hard to remove.

I've not done either of these things to either of my 101s, yet. Someday, I will. Looking forward to it. If I live long enough.

Joe

Unless you end up with a 101 that has sentimental value - or you are into collecting Singers, the 101 is not one I'd recommend to get for a user. It was Singer's experiment into the potted motor and some other feathers - and the 201 is such an improvement in just about all ways. I'd suggest looking for a 201 or a 15-91. They are also so much easier to get parts for if you need them.