RML

I bought a 403A the other day at a thrift store for $15 - It needs a cord and some cleaning but I think it'll work just fine. I have a Pfaff 1471 that's working for me, but with all the talk on this board about the quality of the old Singers I thought I'd like to fix this one up and play with it awhile, remembering the purrrrrr of the Singers when I first leaned on them in junior high (many years ago).

miriam

I LOVE LOVE LOVE my Singer 403 - you can get a cord from Jenny at www.sew-classic.com and get the bobbins there too - good quality and price! She also has feet, etc.

RML

Thanks - I'll check that out.

butterflylady54

I was wondering what a good price for a 401A would be? It is dirty but seems to run ok. It is at a resale shop not priced yet but sounds like I really would enjoy it.
thanks.
These are the machines they have, Can anyone tell me about them and what a fair price would be?
. New Home Jenome 532 22944 JA30
2. Kenmore 117 580 46642

3. the Singer Manufacturing co. 401 A I did find this one on ebay with some info.
But nothing on the others.

QuiltnCowgirl

What a coincidence! I inherited my Mom's 1956 Singer 403a in 2007 when she passed away. I alway's refer to it a "Mama's sewing machine". I just love sewing on it and often think of her sitting at that same machine for so many years. I feel as though she is still here sewing with me. Sweet special memories.

miriam

If that singer 401a is dirty but 'runs ok' I would explore a bit further. See how easily the adjustment knobs work. Do they slide freely? If it is kind of gummy feeling, cleans with kerosene. If the shaft on that adjustment knob is BENT it is very hard to fix - you would need a new shaft or more. Check to be sure it holds a bobbin. Is it all there? Does it have an accessories kit? Manual? 5 discs? If it is in good condition $150 isn't out of line. The accessories kit, manual & cams can run some money - check Ebay. I paid $85 for my last 403. She is a beauty. She came in a mint condition (well almost) cabinet with a stool. She has all her parts and very smooth action, etc.

I don't know about the kenmore or the Janome - what does it do? zigzag, cams, straight only? Is it all there? Is it plastic or ALL metal? How old? If you sit in front of it, how well can you see what you are doing? Some times people use the wrong oil and really gum up a machine. The kerosene will set it free - beware of plastic parts - they melt. Under $50 is fair for no plastic and in working order if it is more than straight stitch.

butterflylady54

Thank you for the input I will check into them further.
I am new to this site. maybe I will try to add pic's

butterflylady54

I will try for more info. They alll run well of course need cleaning and oiling.
1. New Home Jenome 532 22944 JA30
2. Kenmore 117 580 46642 has cams and manual

3. the Singer Manufacturing co. 401 A I did find this one on ebay with some info.
But nothing on the others.

sylviasmom

We recently acquired a Singer 401a. Paid 35.00 for it,was going to give it DIL, but reading about the possible value, keeping it. Beside I have already given her a brand new Phaff.

pheasantduster

My 401A celebrated it's 50th anniversary in 2009! We celebrate together because it was given to me by my parents for a combined birthday, Christmas, and high school graduation present in 1959. She sure looks better than I do. (lol)