Hi Andy! I had bought a 401A for a friend and got the basic straight stitch going well. I never knew this machine had the internal discs. (Helps to print out a manual…) The dials wouldn’t BUDGE. I told her I’d figure it out and your video was PERFECT. Perfect! Thank you! Your precise explanations are much appreciated. Now I know about why a plastic disc is there. I used Kroil and Deep Creep with the hairdryer and some patience. …hmmm… and with a touch from a needle nose pliers on the paddle and follower! CLICK ! All the old varnished oil broke loose and the dials are moving freely! Bless you for sharing with us!

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

Very welcome, Pat, and thanks for sharing your experience with the 401A. It's very common to have this problem and I hope your comment encourages others to get a 401A working, I pinned your comment to the top. Thanks for keeping another machine in service.

@PatriciaSpayd

Жыл бұрын

The 401a is stitching great zigzags! Thank you!

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

@@PatriciaSpayd 👍

I hope you are still checking these comments! THANK YOU SO MUCH! My Slant o Matic was my mother's (who died at age 33 and I was 6). I have used it off and on over the past 20-30 years! It was completely frozen (except for straight stitching) and I had just about given up. A few squirts of WD 40 and a couple of minutes with the hair dryer and I'm good to go. Your video was a wonderful blessing to me today, allowing me to sew again on my mother's machine.

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

Wow, you sure made my evening with this great comment. A family-owned machine is the best, and you have one of the best Singers ever made. I'm glad the video helped you get the machine back in service. I do want to suggest you get some real oil on the machine before too long. WD-40 is not a lubricant and will eventually dry and get sticky. Any sewing machine oil will be fine, SInger, Drits, Lily, etc. Just a finely refined mineral oil. Happy sewing, and thanks for watching my channel.

I just picked up a 500A today. I couldn't resist the styling. And once again you are a priceless resource.

@andytubesewing1953

7 ай бұрын

Sure, can't blame you for that. Singer never called it a rocketeer, but I think everyone else did easy to like with that unique body style of progressive machine. I think you'll enjoy it. I appreciate your comment and thanks for watching my channel

I wish I had seen your video before I tightened a screw on the follower too much and broke it! Luckily, I found a replacement shaft with knobs and followers on ebay and was able to repair my 401. It was my mother's machine and has to be at least 60 years old. Thank you for your videos, I know so much more about my machine and how to repair it.

@andytubesewing1953

Ай бұрын

I wish you had seen it too but thank you for persevering and getting the machine back in service it's wonderful to have a family-owned machine like that any maintenance that needs to be done on your machine can be done by you usually once you clean it up and oil it properly it only takes slight maintenance and regular oiling when used thanks for your nice comment

Hi Andy! Hope you are feeling better. I just bought my first 401A after months of research. My selection dials were both stuck. I am a mechanical engineer that loves stuff like this. Your videos have made my day!! I love your fabulous details. I will be watching them all! Thank you again!!!

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

You sure picked a good machine to play with lots of complicated movement going on under that top cover. I'm happy if the videos will help you and good luck!

So very happy to find you. I recently purchased a 401A in decent shape (she's missing a zig zag foot) but the selector is frozen solid. I have oiled the rest of the machine but the selector switch remains stuck. I am going to grab my heat gun and work on her tonight. Thank you again for your videos. My grandma had this sewing machine, which was why I bought one and the happy memories it brings back are priceless.

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

Welcome to Andy Tube Channel and I'm glad you found me, too! Your Grandma sure picked a wonderful model. Sometimes Selector Knobs won't move because the Lifters by the Camstack are stuck. Here is the 17-video Playlist for this model and there is a video about the Lifters & Followers. kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO Thanks for the nice comment and good luck.

@frankiewilliams2815

Жыл бұрын

@andytubesewing1953 Everything inside was varnished with aged oil to a lovely black colour. I may have to do a more deep tear down at some point, but right now, she is unstuck and bringing back memories like crazy! Thank you so very much for your helpful and insightful videos.❤

Thank goodness for your videos - I have a 401M which I believe was made in Italy. It is running fairly well although I’m having trouble getting it to do a proper zig zag stitch. The manual says use BQ setting, which I’ve tried. It does do a zig zag but a multiple stitch version instead of one stitch to each point. It’s hard to explain. I’m hoping by watching your videos I might be able to get it working better. I hope you are in good health.

@andytubesewing1953

Күн бұрын

Oh, those Italians! I did not know SInger made a 401M, but "M" is their designation for Monza, Italy so I guess they did. I don't know why they would make BQ the setting for regular ZZ. In all the 401 models I have seen (401A, 401G, etc) the setting is BL (BQ is for the multi-point ZZ as you mention. For stretch ZZ) Try the BL setting and see what happens. Yes, I have a few videos for the 401A & 403A kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKKyqvdDRwS-9MfLuwSNJTcg The 401A playlist includes the camstack, followers, risers, etc. videos. Loose knobs can even throw off the dial settings. Sometimes the risers are dirty with old oil preventing the follower from rising to the correct pattern cam. Lots of moving parts on that model, isn't there? If you'd like free copies of the 401A manuals here is the Instruction Manual: ismacs.net/singer_sewing_machine_company/manuals/singer-401-slant-o-matic-sewing-machine.pdf and here is the Service Manual: sewingdude.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/singer-401-service-manual1.pdf I appreciate your nice comment 🙏and best of luck to you!

Thank you for such a helpful video! I've been using my Grandma's 401g for many years, on and off, and recently realised that the selector was stuck - luckily on a straight stitch. I've been working on getting the machine into better shape, and your video helped me to get it working again. I would never have had the confidence to take the lid off and start oiling and heating it otherwise. Thank you so much!

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

Yes, you are welcome. Thank you for keeping the machine in service. It is about the most mechanical models Singer made, with 47 oil points and 4 grease points. If those are services occasionally the machine will keep working for many more decades. What an heirloom! If needed, you can download a free Instruction Manual directly from the Singer Support Page here: www.singer.com/search/support?title=401 I'm glad you did find my video. There are more videos for Model 401 in a Playlist here: kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO There are also many videos for the little sister Model 403A in this playlist: kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKKyqvdDRwS-9MfLuwSNJTcg The two models have very similar parts so the 403A videos can be helpful also. Thanks so much for the nice, bright comment. I appreciate it. Happy sewing.

There is some amazing mechanical engineering in that machine..!! I'm watching the whole series...it will help me with my 500A... Thanks Andy, you're the best.!! I learn something new every time I watch one of your videos.!

@andytubesewing1953

11 ай бұрын

It's complex but it was a joy to work on it and see how well it was designed and made. I know you'll have a good time. Thanks for saving another machine

@connieworcester55

11 ай бұрын

@@andytubesewing1953 Well so far, because of your awesome detailed videos, I have branched out from my usual, black vintage Singers. The additions are (two) (237's). a (503A,) a (404), and just yesterday I got the (500A.) 😄

@andytubesewing1953

11 ай бұрын

@@connieworcester55 sounds like a fistful of wonderful to me 👍

This was fantastic! I received my Grandmothers 401A complete with drop-in desk and KNEE pedal when she passed away. I was afraid to sew with it but worked up the courage and confidence I would not break it until this happened to me! Thank you so much! She works like a charm now!

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Very welcome, and thank you for servicing and using that wonderful family owned machine. You can do any and all servicing and repairs on the machine. I have videos for almost every part of it and the pedal and motor, etc. Thank you for watching my channel.

This was SO helpful! I found a 500A where the knobs would not move at all at first. It's amazing what a few drops of oil will do. I really appreciate you explaining what all the parts do, and especially the correct way to install and remove the cams.

@andytubesewing1953

2 жыл бұрын

thanks for the nice comment, Trish. I appreciate you taking the time. Those knobs are infamous (IMO) for getting stuck and acting up. I was getting so many emails about them that I bought a 401A to show some fixes. It has most of the same parts as the 500A that came out two years later. I hope that was all your machine needed but if you find other issues I can recommend a couple of playlists with videos for other repairs and servicing. The 401A playlist: kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO and the 503A Playlist: kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKJZaZn2zl3LsnV2d7UhrqvX Thanks for watching my channel and good luck.

I am so excited, this video has helped me release the knobs. I am so happy I found your channel, you explain everything so clearly and easy to understand. Thank you so much

@andytubesewing1953

3 жыл бұрын

I'm so glad! kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKKyqvdDRwS-9MfLuwSNJTcg

Glad to see you posting videos again, sorry to hear about your health. I have learned a lot from you and even started my own business repairing sewing machines. Your videos definitely helped me avoid making mistakes and showed me tools and techniques that have been invaluable. Thanks so much. As it turns out, I just got this same machine in for cleaning as it hasn't been used for a decade or so.

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you very much, Wes. I love that you repairing machines and thanks for keeping some of these beauties in service. If you can fix a 401A then you can fix any vintage Singer and others. If you see the links at the end of the video for playlists, those videos cover almost every part on the 401A, 403A, motor and foot controller, and the 500A and 503A Rocketeers. You can download a free instruction manual for Singer here: www.singer.com/search/support?title=401 That will explain the "Red Lever" system and about the installation and removal of the Special disc that people don't know and often damage their machines. You can also download a free copy of the Service Manual here: sewingdude.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/singer-401-service-manual1.pdf As you are already fixing machines, this guide will show you how to adjust, remove, replace almost every part on the machine. I'm glad you watch my channel, Wes, and that you took time to comment.

Thank you so much. I learn so much every time I watch your videos. Your so thorough.

@andytubesewing1953

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your kind comment about my videos. 🙏I appreciate that you watch and support my efforts and find them of value. I'm glad you're learning about servicing and maintaining the machines. Take care and be safe.

Thanks for the great tutorial. I always pick up great pointers when I watch them, so thanks for your hard work. I don't know if the 401a is the best sewing machine that Singer made, but I sure enjoy mine!

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

That's the spirit! If you like it, then it's the best. We all have our opinions, but our own opinion counts the most, haha. Thank you for commenting and watching my videos.

Thank you so much for the close up pictures! I'd purchased a used 401A recently. I was clean, but it turned out the follower mechanism fell below the lifter. At first I'd thought the follower was missing but I just had to reach in, wiggle it up and got it out. I'm so appreciative that you showed the groove that the lifter sets in as I had initially put it in the wrong position, below the groove. The dials now move beautifully and I'm so happy! Thank you!

@andytubesewing1953

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for fixing that machine, Roxanne, and for helping to justify the time I spent on those pictures. I was reading the manual over and over until I found the grove and realized what it is. 1 picture = 1,000 words and sometimes more. I'm really happy the video helped and thank you for commenting. Happy sewing.

Thank you so much! I have a Singer 500A... and this video was so very helpful, mine are working great now! It stills needs to be cleaned and serviced professionally,but until then, wonderfully helpful. Thank you!

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

I'm glad you found the video, Deana. They are wonderfully tough machines. Who knows, you might do some of the servicing yourself. My PLAYLISTS of videos for models 401A, 404, 403, 503A would all help you.120 videos there, not counting the playlists for the motor and foot controller. All listed on my PLAYLIST PAGE: kzread.info/dron/USPDsHaFtRoz1VA2U1xJ4w.htmlplaylists?view_as=public Hopefully you can have it serviced when you want, but with this virus situation who knows when. Thanks for taking the time to comment. Be Safe.

Thanks for the video Andy! I had the same problem with a 404a I gave to my son. We bought it from the previous owner and they thought it must have been broken. Replaced the old foot pedal and it is a sewing wonder now! Love the 404a. We have had the same issue with a 401a.

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Wow, a great score you made with that! I'm reminded of the fellow in Wisconsin that fixed a 457 after seeing my gear video. He says he runs around town buying everyone he can find and even advertised on CL to buy them. His average price was about $15. He has the gear replacement down to 33 minutes and has been selling the machine for $125, haha. When he emailed me last year he had sold 23 of them at $100 profit (approx) each! He's buying the gears a dozen at a time right thru China. I'm happy the machines are back in service, and I'm happy you're still watching my channel and taking the time to comment, Matthew. Thank you very much.

I bought a 401a today at a sale for $50. It was TOTALLY dry. No grease or oil anywhere and hadnt been used for many many years. I greased and oiled her up, but these gears were totally locked up. I put tri-flow in it and got out the hairdryer and fiddled with it. Worked like a charm!!!! It freed up and now works like hers did when my mom taught me how to sew. I'm so excited I found one AND got it working all in the same day. Thank you so much for your great video!

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

What a great comment. Happy for you Linda! You know, in today's dollars that machine cost about $3,000 so you certainly got your money's worth I'd say. I hope you have a wonderful time sewing and crafting with it. Don't forget to name it 😀 I have more videos for working on it, and the motor, and the foot controller if you find it needs a little work once you start using it. You can find them on my main playlist page here: kzread.info/dron/USPDsHaFtRoz1VA2U1xJ4w.htmlplaylists Thank you also for supporting my channel, and take care.

Your a genius, thanks so much!! I was thinking i was gonna be stuck forever, this worked, THANKYOU!

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

You're welcome! I'm glad you found the video and thanks for commenting. Here are all the 401A videos kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO Take Care.

I always thought it was kind of like a transmission being stuck between gears, and with turning the hand wheel back and forth it seemed to help it move. Now I'll oil it as you say, thanks for the tip.

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Welcome. Maybe while you are oiling you can just do the whole machine. Anyone who needs it can go to Singer and download a FREE copy of the original Instruction Manual. www.singer.com/search/support?title=401 The Manual on top of the list is the longer one and the 4th manual down is abbreviated but both have the three pages of where to put oil & grease. I often forget to oil the hook race to the side of the bobbin case. I'm glad you found the video and thanks for the comment.

Thank you Mr Tube. I bought a 401 last year and she has stiffness in the selectors. Tomorrow I’m going to follow your directions and fix it. 👍

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Usually, this will help free everything up. There can be a lifter that slipped out of a follower and got stuck, but you really don't know what's going on until things can get moving. General cleaning of the parts may be needed. I will be releasing more videos as I work through all these parts under the arm cover. In fact, I recently posted a video about the cam stack. All the videos will be in a Playlist you can find here: kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO I hope you can follow along. Good Luck, Cherie, and thanks for watching my channel.

Thank you very much for doing these great videos. I bought a 500A as my first sewing machine and between the help from this video and from your 503 maintenance video, it's running amazingly. You've really demystified this machine for me.

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the kind comment. 🙏You sure picked a great model. I appreciate you keeping the machine in service, and for watching my channel.

What good timing!!! I was told by a young lady yesterday that she was having trouble with the selector knob and my 1st. thought was that I didn't have time to get into fixing it, but this info was great. Already added the oil and going for the hair dryer. Thanks again for your wonderful "fixing" videos.

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Nice! Usually, this is enough to get it working smoothly. If not, look for a follower stuck under the edge of a cam when someone pulled a plastic disc off without moving the pointer off of the "Special" setting. If it's just stuck and not bent you can free it up and get her back to sewing. Good luck, and thanks for watching my channel.

Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. Bought a Singer 401 that was seized in 3 spots. 2 were the knobs and the 3 one was the main rod. I was able to get the knobs working but was stuck on how to get main rod. 😢 I watched your trick with the blow dryer. I figured wouldn't hurt. After 5 minutes with blowdryer and wiggling wheel and poof it was released. Happy dance in my kitchen. Thank you 😊 😊😊😊😊😊

@andytubesewing1953

6 ай бұрын

I'm glad you found my channel. I appreciate you rescuing that machine.🙏 It sure is a beauty. I hope you enjoy it for many years to come

OMG!!! I love you so much right now!!! After oiling it all up. I freed the rod & leaders & followers but it kept getting stuck on the hook with the spring. The problem was that the hook with the spring was on the wrong side of the paddle for the red lever. Whoever serviced it last (way before I got it!) put it back together wrong. Because I could see into your machine I could see what the problems was and could fix it... and clean, oil & grease up the machine. Runs like a dream now!!!

@andytubesewing1953

2 жыл бұрын

It's always nice to be loved 😀 thank you. I'm glad you spotted the spring problem. I also have a video about that Needle Bar Driving Arm system kzread.info/dash/bejne/ppeYqbizfJy6ZtI.html and the Vibrating Bracket & Spring kzread.info/dash/bejne/jIih269tfbG-ZtI.html Thanks for saving that machine, and for watching my channel.

Hey, Andy ... GOOD JOB as usual! Waiting impatiently to see your next video ... Cause it has a direct link with the problem of my singer 611g cam and zigzag timing. Thank you for helping and teaching us, dear friend!

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching. It should be posted in about 26 hours. JAN 27, 2020 18:00HRS (GMT-0700) DENVER The Cam StackTiming starts @ 01:10:48 of video. Hope it is what you need. Good Luck.

@adihcarmachouk3383

4 жыл бұрын

@@andytubesewing1953 THANK YOU SO SOOOOO MUCH ANDY... LENGTHY & HEALTHY LIFE TO YOU 'MACHINE REPAIR MAESTRO' :-)

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

@@adihcarmachouk3383 Sounds good to me. see you then.

Oh my gosh!!! I just fixed my grandmother's sewing machine by following your video!!! The hairdryer is KEY!!!

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

I'm glad you found the video! Nicely done. That's the only thing my hairdryer is used for anymore, hehe. Nice of you to comment. Take Care.

Excellent videos. Thank you for all the information.

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Welcome and thanks for watching. I started a playlist/series for model 401 recently and am adding more videos. kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO

I can’t believe this worked! Thank you so much!

@andytubesewing1953

3 жыл бұрын

So glad you found it. Here are the other videos for this model if you discover other issues kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO Happy sewing, and thanks for watching my channel.

Yay! The selectors are rotating again on my Grandma's machine. The oil didn't do it but the hair dryer did. The back lifter that allows the push selector (which was not the main focus of this video) to move was stuck. Thank you!!

@andytubesewing1953

3 жыл бұрын

That is awesome! Nicely done. All the 401A videos are here kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO Thanks for watching my channel.

Fabulous video! It really helps a person understand lifters and followers. I own two beautiful Singers, but not a 401A. Even so, I expect this knowledge will help me with other machines having built-in and different sorts of cams. Love your "Hall of the Mountain King" intro.....

@andytubesewing1953

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks very much. Yes, the 401A... "The Cadillac of Singer Machines," they say although I much prefer the 403A. Hope you can stop by again.

Thank you SO MUCH Andy ! I just bought a 401A and had this problem of stuck selector knobs. We followed your demo and fixed the machine !!! I am so greatful !

@andytubesewing1953

2 жыл бұрын

Congratulations on your "new" Slant-O-Matic machine. I'm glad you found my video helpful. I have a playlist for other repairs and maintenance for this model you can find here: kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO Thanks for taking the time to comment. Happy sewing.

Thank you so much for posting this informative video. I just got my 401a from Goodwill. Yup, both selector knobs were frozen. Your technique saved the day. Applied penetrating oil to the areas that you highlighted. Gave it about 5 minutes with a hair dryer. Gave the knobs encouraging pushes and pulls. Then let the machine sit in the sun for about 20 minutes- was about 80 degrees. Eureka, it worked. Again, thanks for your instructions!

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Nicely done! I'm glad you found the video. COngrats on your "new" machine. Here are my other 401A videos in case you have other issues. kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO Take Care.

It worked...the oil and hair dryer. Amazing!!

@andytubesewing1953

3 жыл бұрын

happy ending. Thanks for sharing the news 👍

I love your videos. I learn so much. Thank you!

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

Thanks very much Laura. I appreciate you watching my channel

Wow you did it! Great!

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks!

Again, thank you. My heart is full.

Excellent demonstration and explanation. Thank you Andy.

@andytubesewing1953

2 жыл бұрын

thank you very much 🙏

Thank you so much for your video. I bought a 500A for my collection and the outer selection knob wouldn’t budge. As you suggested, I used a hair dryer for a couple of minutes and it loosened right up! I oiled and greased the machine and it purrs like a kitten!! Thanks again!!!!!

@andytubesewing1953

2 жыл бұрын

Very welcome, Steven. I'm glad you found the video. A surprising fix but it works well. Congratulations on your new Rocketeer 500A and happy sewing.

Great instructions for freeing up selection knows. I have a 600E that works on the same premise...the hair dryer was the ticket for me...again, Great lesson..thanks

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

I'm glad you found the video and thank you for the nice comment. Good luck going forward

Thank you the button on my vintage brother sewing machine was stuck did all you said now I can reverse stitch hair dryer and oil thank you

@andytubesewing1953

2 жыл бұрын

I'm glad you found the video then. I don't know much about Brother machines, but parts are parts so it was great you were able to get the reverse working. Happy sewing, and thanks for the nice comment.

THANK YOU! I was able to fix it! The hair dryer trick fixed it!

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

Yippee! I'm glad it worked out for you. JJ, good luck going forward and thanks for watching my channel

Thank you for your tips! I have got it unstuck now! Yay!

@andytubesewing1953

3 жыл бұрын

Good job! I'm glad you found the video. Here is a playlist of my other Model 401A videos if you have other issues. kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO Take care.

have to maintain these old machine and they will last...like back in the days when you had to grease the old cars! ;-) Awesome to see everything working together once freed up!!

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

When my Grandpa retired I bought one of his old pickup trucks. 1950 Chevy with in-line 6 cylinder and manual 4-speed Transmission. (granny gear) He had bought if from the city parks department with 100k miles and drove it 100k more. I drove it for 50k more miles and never had any trouble. I remember crawling all around it with a grease gun looking for the zerk fittings. I sold it to buy a 1959 chevy truck. I wish I still had the truck. Actually, I wish I still had both of them!

@danmorrissette4814

4 жыл бұрын

@@andytubesewing1953 Yes Sir !! Cool Story and definitely before the age of control obsolescence !! That's one of the reason that what You do and Teach is So important !! i wish i still had the old Ford 65' my Dad gave me too! loll!

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

@@danmorrissette4814 Oh, a '65. Too sweet. If only we'd known how much we'd miss them.

@danmorrissette4814

4 жыл бұрын

@@andytubesewing1953 Glad some People still restore them so we can go and see them ! :-)

Thank you for giving such detailed information and guidance!

@andytubesewing1953

5 ай бұрын

Thanks for the nice comment. I appreciate your interest in keeping a vintage machine in service

Once again, you saved the day!! Last time it was my 301, this time it's the 401A I picked up at the thrift store!! That front follower just did not want to budge. Hair dryer to the rescue!! Thank you, Andy!!

@andytubesewing1953

2 жыл бұрын

Glad you found the video and nicely done. If you find any other issues, here is a playlist of all my 401A videos: kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO That's quite a jump for you from a 301 a to a 401A, whew! From zero ZZ to about 80 ZZ patterns. Happy sewing, Francine.

@GigisART

2 жыл бұрын

@@andytubesewing1953 I'm a subscriber to your channel! That's how I knew where to go!! Now I'm watching how to get the screws loosened on the dial! 😉

@andytubesewing1953

2 жыл бұрын

@@GigisART Oh! Thanks very much for the Sub. It's an interesting machine with all those dials, lifters, and followers. Very versatile so happy crafting then and take care.

Excellent! Thank you for sharing; your videos help so much

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

I enjoyed your kind comment. Thanks for taking the time to leave it and for keeping a machine and service waste not want not is how I was raised and it has served me well

Hi Andy! Thank you so much for all of your videos! They have been so helpful. I recently was gifted my daughter's grandmothers 1956 401A machine and the stitch selectors were stuck. I tried the tri-flow and hairdryer trick and it worked!! I was ecstatic and my kids thought I was a little nuts 🙂 I then got brave enough to follow your tutorial of oiling the whole machine. It is now sitting out in the garage, airing out the grease smell so the kitchen doesn't smell like an auto shop!!! I'm so excited to start sewing with it. Thanks again!! -Jenny

@andytubesewing1953

10 ай бұрын

Oh, nicely done. It's always good to keep the kids guessing 😀You should have seen my grandaughter's face when she walked in on me washing a 401A in the bathtub, haha. Nice idea to air it out. I'd use a soft rag to wipe the machine down then, inside and out. Thanks for the nice comment, and I appreciate you getting that machine back in service.

@jennyjanda1975

10 ай бұрын

@@andytubesewing1953 😄

Thanks Andy! My 431G is very similar to your 410 and I have followed your advice regarding the pattern selector. I'm so thankful! You speak so clearly and are so educational that even though I'm bad at English, I understand what you're saying! Many thanks from Susanne in Sweden

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

I appreciate your compliments. From reading how you write your comments I'd never guess you feel that you're "bad" at English. You are better than many Americans I know and worked with. FYI, you can turn on Closed Captions and change the language from English to whatever you like. Maybe that helps, but honestly, you are proficient 👍and I enjoy your comments very much.

@susannebrydewall4293

Жыл бұрын

@@andytubesewing1953 LOL! Thanks to Google translate! But thank you anyway. Right now it feels like 431G hate me but I'm fighting. Now there is something crazy abort the upper thread tension even though I took it apart and cleaned it. But the night is still young here in Sweden and I have infinite patience. 😄

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

@@susannebrydewall4293 😀😀I wondered about Google Translate but did not want to cause an insult if you were not using it. Carry on then. Maybe a little brännvin will help? Good luck.

@rickhann9307

10 ай бұрын

⁠@@andytubesewing1953 Hello Andy…hope you’re doing well these days. Your videos have inspired me and given me the confidence to tackle a couple of 500A’s, a 404A, four 401A’s, and most recently I was fortunate enough to acquire a 431G that needs a bit of help. Like your 401A (“Trouble”), the front selector dial on this 431G is wobbly. I suspect the fix is the same, but the problem I’m having is that the selector dial front cap doesn’t have the two screws holding it on to the pointer bracket. Do you know if it pops off, screws off? Don’t want to force it.

@andytubesewing1953

10 ай бұрын

@@rickhann9307 Sorry, but I've never seen a 431G in person and have never worked on one. I'm aware of what a fabulous model it is, but have never found parts or service documents for it. IMO. the Singer German factory combined some features of the US 401A & 500A models when making their 401 thru 431G models. The 500A model has screws behind the front knob on the right side. I guess I'd look for screening and to the side of the front knob, or underneath the knob(s) both outside the machine on the shaft and even just inside the front of the body under the arm cover. If no luck I'd lightly try unscrewing, but Singer had been tricky in the past with certain dial and lever settings before a dial or knob can be removed. Maybe there is a Facebook Group for those Germain Slant models who could help?

Thank you so much. This was my very problems. Works great. You are the best!!!

@andytubesewing1953

4 ай бұрын

Thank you Laura. I'm glad that you found the video and I appreciate that you are keeping that machine in service 🙏 you can find other helpful videos in the 401A playlist called "trouble". Happy sewing and stop by again soon

Thank you so much Sir Andy!!! I bought myself this same machine at a yard sale for $4.00 last summer. I was finally able to bring it home, ready to sew but the front knob was stuck, a little oil & it's moving smoothly now. I'm so surprised how clean my machine is. Works great!

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Glad I could help! That is the sale of 2020 I think! Just look on eBay at what the used motor sells for, yikes! The tension units average about $30. I'm glad you rescued it from a life of abandonment. AN incredible machine for you to own. Thanks for sharing.

@iamzim3620

4 жыл бұрын

@@andytubesewing1953 Thank you for all your great videos on these machines! (Long story to follow) In 2007 I got a 403a with all accessories for FREE on Craigslist. There was a woman who was moving states & needed to get rid of a bunch of stuff for her move. She said the machine originally belonged to her grandmother & that she herself had learned to sew on it. It came in a simple but beautiful cabnet that had a tilt open drawer in front. I absolutely loved that machine & still miss it. In 2013 I sold it to my mother in-law for $300.00 because I was planning on moving to out of the country. Things happened & we didn't end up moving. I've missed that machine since the day I sold it. Fast forward to 2019 I stopped at a yard sale in Battle Ground Washington not far from my house. I walk up & spy a cabnet on the porch. The cabnet has a box on it with mugs for 5 bucks, I set the box aside to take a better look at the sewing machine, it has a $4.00 price tag. I ask the girl working the sale if I can plug it in to see if it works. This girl looks at me with a bewildered expression & says "plug it in?" "What do you mean?" So I fold it open & see a beautiful Singer 401a. The girl is totally surprised she had no idea there was a sewing machine in that cabnet. The front drawer is faux & hinges a little loose. There was no power cord, but for $4.00 it was worth a shot. I brought it home, went online & bought a cord, oil, manual & rubber tire for the bobbin winder. Oiled it up turned it on & was so surprised & how quiet & smooth it is. It's not perfect, it has a couple surface scratches & a little bit of surface rust in a couple spots. I've watched several of your videos now & plan to watch them again as I attempt my own restoration. At another yard sale I found a box of attachments for $1.00. I can't thank you enough for your help, it feels so nice to be able to work on my own machine. 😁💓 I'm 38 & love antiques & vintage items, this is by far my best yard sale find & story.

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

"but for $4 it was worth a shot" too cute for words! The tension unit sells for $30 on eBay, no worries. I love this story. You are a natural at it. I went to your channel hoping to find more, sigh... Truly, thank you for saving that machine and giving its live back to it. Maybe you' like to bookmark my playlist page? kzread.info/dron/USPDsHaFtRoz1VA2U1xJ4w.htmlplaylists?view_as=public I have 500+ videos and 100+ of them have soemthing to do with the parts on your machine. Look for models 403A, 404, 503A and button style foot controller, PA style motor. One video shows how to speed up your motor in 5 minutes for about $10 if it is sluggish: kzread.info/dash/bejne/oq6lltavaNTUaZc.html I won't be surprised if I find your blog someday showing your adventures of restoration work in Battle Ground Washington. Take Care.

@iamzim3620

4 жыл бұрын

@@andytubesewing1953 thank you, I took your advice & bookmarked your videos. I also ordered some Krud kutter rust remover (vinegar takes too long). I also bought a magnetic dish for pins that I'll use for my clean up job. I'll be sure to take a video & upload asap. I'm a big fan of doing things myself so this should be fun. You are so kind, & I look forward to sharing my work with your guidance. 😊 -Brooke

hair dryer technique is effective!!! thank you

@andytubesewing1953

3 жыл бұрын

🏆 Thanks for letting us know.

Thank you so much! great video help me a lot, save me money, and an unnecessary trip

@andytubesewing1953

2 ай бұрын

I'm glad you found the video. I really liked your comment. It it justifies the time I spent on the video. Happy sewing then

Very helpful, thank you

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment, Wanda. Here is my 17 video Playlist for this model with more Do It Yourself Help videos: kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO Good Luck, and thanks for watching my channel.

Thanks, another great video.

@andytubesewing1953

4 ай бұрын

I appreciate it, Dennis. Thank you for watching. 🙏

awesome stuff

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

😊

I had a problem in this area on a 401A that I recently purchased.The lifting arm on the front post had retracted enough to disengage from the notches on the post but it also retracted a little bit more so that it slid out of the lifting slot on the follower. When I first saw it, I thought the follower was missing, but it had only slid down the post. Obviously this limited the range of operation of the pull knob. I'll be looking for an adjustment to limit the amount of retraction of the lifting arm. I suspect the mechanism got sticky and then someone forced the knob back enough to disengage the lifting arm. Just something else your viewers may want to look for.

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

I love this comment, Terry. I forgot to mention more about this in the video. I have seen bent and dislodged followers from people forcing off the top plastic "Special" disc while the dial was still turned to special. The follower is still engaged and by forcing it can bend or pull right out of the slots cut in the post. It then can fall to the bottom and sit there and sure, that would mess up the whole side of the pattern selection and any other special disc you put on top (20 different ones available) In the Instructions Singer shows to move the selector OFF of Special before removing or placing a Special Patter Disc on top of the cam stack. I'm so happy you mentioned this and I'll pin this to the top of comments so it's the first one people see. I'll try to remember to mention more about this when I work on the lifters/followers in later videos. You're the best for taking the time to comment. Thank you very much, sir. Take care.

I picked up a 401A from a thrift store recently that has this problem. I will be giving your technique a try shortly. When I turn the hand wheel, the rest of the machine moves smoothly like it's been oiled and cleaned regularly. It's stuck in the straight stitch position. That may be the only stitch its previous owner used. I got the Singer and a Kenmore, both in cabinets, for very little. The cabinets are a little rough cosmetically, but still very usable.

@andytubesewing1953

3 жыл бұрын

For sure if the previous sewist left it in straight stitch forever it can be an easy fix. One of the followers could just be stuck, too. Here's my playlist of 401A videos for cleaning, adjusting, repairing kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO Happy sewing.

@kevinmonceaux2101

Жыл бұрын

@@andytubesewing1953 It's only taken me a year to get around to working on my 401A's stitch selector issue. I got sidetracked on other hobbies. Oil, patience, gentle persuasion, and guidance from your video was all it needed,. After getting it freed up, the stitch selector mechanism did a pretty good job of cleaning itself up. There was a bit of varnish on my selector posts, but after working the selector mechanism quite a bit I have bright shiny selector posts. The needle swing mechanism was pretty stiff also, but oil and gentle persuasion has it moving smoothly now. My machine was missing its bobbin plate cover and power cord. I've ordered replacements, and will hopefully have it threaded and sewing before long. With the help of your videos I might get brave enough to tackle dismantling and thoroughly cleaning parts of simpler machines before long. So far the Singers I've collected are all in relatively good shape. I need to find a good guinea pig machine that needs enough TLC to warrant disassembly. When I got my 401A in a cabinet for very little, they thew in a second machine also in a cabinet for free. It's very stiff, and would probably benefit from disassembly and cleaning, but it's a Kenmore.

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

@@kevinmonceaux2101 Glad it finally worked out for you, Kevin. There are methods of cleaning without fully dismantling the machine. Here is one method I use: kzread.info/dash/bejne/nYyOqs2se5rYd7Q.html It's a long video, but the method is quicker and gets about 90% of the gunk out. There are a number of less expensive models you can find for practice. One of my favorites is model 457 which usually has a broken top gear on the vertical shaft and won't sew any longer. The gear is about $12 and I have a video showing the replacement. Many of my viewers shop online at Goodwill b/c prices are cheap and they get a discount from USPS to ship. shopgoodwill.com/categories/listing?st=singer%20sewing%20machine&sg=&c=&s=&lp=0&hp=999999&sbn=&spo=false&snpo=false&socs=false&sd=false&sca=false&caed=9%2F4%2F2022&cadb=7&scs=false&sis=false&col=1&p=1&ps=40&desc=false&ss=0&UseBuyerPrefs=true&sus=false&cln=1&catIds=&pn=&wc=false&mci=false&hmt=false&layout=grid&ihp=true My Playlist page list machines by model number so you can visit if you like to get some ideas of a machine that looks like fun kzread.info/dron/USPDsHaFtRoz1VA2U1xJ4w.htmlplaylists Thanks for fixing the machine and I hope you do more of them. Sorry, I can't help with other brands. Take care.

@kevinmonceaux2101

Жыл бұрын

@@andytubesewing1953 Now that you mention it, I do have a 457. It was supposed to be in functional shape, but the top gear broke in transit to me. It's another one I intended to fix long ago, but haven't gotten around to yet. I think I found the replacement gear for around $6 shortly after I received the machine, and did watch your video on replacing it back then. It's the machine that made me decide to focus on collecting all metal machines. I don't think I would have any problems replacing the gear, but even if I do it's not a machine I'm so attached to that I would be upset if my repair attempt renders it worse of than before I started, so it would be a good guinea pig machine to start on.

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

@@kevinmonceaux2101 It's a shame Singer started using the plastic gears. The previous model, 347, has steel gears. A new gear should last about 20 years. I have learned something new from every model I restored. Best of luck.

Oh my darling Andy. I've been watching and watching and couldnt work out why the follower on my 611G was intermittently jamming on the top if the cam shaft when back at Special. It has slightly different mechanism than the 400 series but got to 21 minutes in where you mention the nylon cam preventing the follower from jamming at the top of the cam shaft and bingo. I didn't have the nylon cam down properly. Clicked it into place and job's a goodun as we say in England 🥰🥰🥰 keep well. Your friend Bernie

@moiraberniegatt9491

4 жыл бұрын

But NOW the other end if the filler is binding on the needle position selector and it will only let it go to the right. Something is wrong that isn't right! 😱😳

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Glad you figured it out.

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

I don't work on the Touch & Sew models at all so I can't advise about this. If you think the Service Manual would be helpful you can download a copy for $8.99 at this link" manualsoncd.com/product/singer-611-sewing-machine-service-manual/ It is 50 pages and the service amanuals usually show all the adjustment and specifications. Good Luck, Bernie.

Thank you... thank you..

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Welcome! I'm glad you found my video. Cheers!

I enjoy your videos sharing your wealth of knowledge. I have since purchased 2 403A's and a 237. I been tinkering on them, did the foot pedal on the 403a, then the clamshell on the 237 and i had an idea. These Carbon pile discs are basically graphite. Have you ever tried buying a small carbon plate about the same thickness, and trying to cut out a new disc by maybe spining a hole punch on it or something similar to make a new one?

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you for buying and fixing those machines. I'm glad you found my channel. As to your question, the short answer is no, I've never considered it. Long answer; the discs seem so thin and fragile. Maybe when brand new they are sturdier. I only know of one place to buy replacement carbons and they are about twice as thick and softer than the originals. They do work though. www.sewingpartsonline.com/carbon-resistance-unit-singer-618804-003.aspx I've replaced the entire unit into a couple of clamshell controllers and they fit with just minor adjustments. I have also just taken out the carbon stack of discs from the tube and used them in a couple of button style controllers with good results. I have no idea how long they will last and the softness concerns me somewhat. As you saw, the button style controller has about 50 discs on each side, so 100 total. I don't know what the carbon plate you mention would cost, but just the idea of cutting 100 discs out of it is enough to deter me. Wait! Maybe you mean if you just need to make a few discs to replace some broken ones? Maybe that would work, and you could measure the old and new thickness to replace the same amount. If you put the new ones evenly on each side, then why not? You may have something there! TBH, when a customer came to me with bad carbons I gave them the option of buying the ones on the link above and my labor to replace them or buying a new electronic pedal (more control, no heat) and paying me to transfer the cords from the old to the new electronic pedal. The overall cost was about the same. I'd say 5 wanted the carbons and 13 or so wanted the new pedal. Here's the pedal we used; shop.sew-classic.com/Foot-Control-Electronic-2-Wire-Type-UL-12-amp-SCE168FC.htm. Now two of the customers who kept the old pedal with new carbons made that choice b/c they used the controller mounted in a cabinet and used a knee lever to control it. We were not confident of rigging something up to put the new pedal into the old Singer cabinet and using the knee controller. I do not have the knowledge or instruments to compare resistance levels between the old and new carbons and could only go by the length (height) of the stack of carbons, but maybe that would not make any difference b/c the end carbon pieces on the Singer ones are much longer/thicker for strength. I guess it would come down to the cost of your carbon plate vs cost of the $13.99 replacement carbons or the $16.99 electronic pedal linked above. I don't count time just b/c it would an interesting exercise so who cares about time if your having fun? If the carbon plate was cheaper and you only needed say 10 or 12 new discs you could save money, but how much? You are one thoughtful person with a creative mind, johnpaulsz28, and adventuresome if that z28 means what I think it does. If you ever try it, please document it and put it on your channel, or I'll post in on mine for you if you like. (Sorry, when I said long I meant it!)

@johnpaulsz28

4 жыл бұрын

@@andytubesewing1953 i didnt know they still sold them, i looked and looked out of curiosity, never did find that site you linked. No i wasnt thinking of replacing the whole tube's... that would be tedious. When i did the 403a pedal, i started with 52 in each side and ended with 48 on each. So i was thinking along the lines of to have it around when needed for the small amounts replacements- if you do a lot of pedals. I havent searched pricing on the plate its probably not worth the time when you can buy some, of course im the type of person that, one day im sure, i will try it out of curiousity. On my 237 i ended up with one of the end graphite contacts broken so i guess ill be ordering a new pedal for it and saving the old for spare parts. In my travels of google, i did stumble on some, i think they called it "rebuild kits", on ebay for these old controllers where they just add a newer style resistor/rheostat? to them. i cant remember what the cost was, probably 5-10 bucks. May be something to look into if you have a few of these pedals laying around missing carbon piles that can be brought back to life. if your interested im sure i can dig around and find those links for you, but i havent done my research on what they are selling. They want a pretty penny for these dang controllers on ebay. I can sometimes pick up 2 old machines at goodwill for the price of one old controller on ebay.

@adihcarmachouk3383

4 жыл бұрын

@@johnpaulsz28 When a foot controller is missing carbon piles i use a washer of approximately the same diameter & add it just in contact with the metal pieces inside the tubes ANNNND by miracle this works great ... i am a total ignorant about electricity matters regarding motors and so ... BUT the gap between the piles is filled and the motor won't heat anymore!!! Can you advise if this won't damage my POOR motors ? :-)

😍👍👍👍👍👍👌 AWESOME VISIT, THANK YOU 😍😍😍😍😍

@andytubesewing1953

3 жыл бұрын

Glad you liked it, and thanks very much.

I have learned so much through your help. I have a Stylist 534 with a stitch width dial stuck. It may be stuck on the buttonhole mode. I cannot determine what is causing it. I have not been able to find a video about it. It was given to me, because it did not work. So it's a learning exercise and I'm not out anything if I fail.

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching my channel, Dianne. It will be hard to find a video for your area fo concern, but help is available. If you take a look at this website you can get some free information and also purchase a copy of the Service Manual that covers all the repairs/adjustments on your machine. You just pay and download a PDF of it. I use these types of manuals when I get stuck or work on a model I am not familiar with. Terry, the owner of the site, generously offers a 20% discount to everything you buy as an Andy Tube viewer. Just enter coupon code andy-h-yt. It is 80 pages of information with pictures, descriptions and step-by-step instructions and covers a handful of models, including your 534. SM-513 Factory Repair Guide is the one you want. site.tandtrepair.com/StylistLine.html I do have some videos of model 513. They do not cover your problem but you may find them helpful in the future. kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLELksv_-MWE7tiAuzOgQj0 kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKJKoWgl8z-QIZCK70z3yhdH Since the machine was a gift you may not have received the Instruction Manual with it. It is available free for you, or anyone, from SInger at this link; www.singer.com/search/support?title=534 Your machine may indeed be stuck in buttonhole mode, or just have a linkage that slipped out of place. Even if a part is bent or broke you can usually find replacement vintage parts on eBay. Good Luck.

I’ve learned so much from you over the years. Right now, my stitch width selector on my 401a is stuck on 5. I’ve oiled and cleaned. It will still sew but I can not sew a straight stitch. I’m sure you may have covered this in one of your many videos but I have not been able to find it. Thanks for any help !

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

That's a new one for me 😊I guess I would start at the Needle Bar Vibrating Bracket (NBVB) in the nose of the machine. That NBVB is what helps the Needle Bar (NB) swing for ZigZAg (ZZ) sewing. It is often missed when oiling is done and it really gets a workout when ZZ sewing. It may be stuck at maximum swing (Red Lever 5) and not releasing. I'm talking about the oiling locations at the top left of page 88 of the 401A Instruction Manual. To see about the workings of the NBVB here are a couple of videos: kzread.info/dash/bejne/ppeYqbizfJy6ZtI.html and kzread.info/dash/bejne/fm2Oy7mOgrOnXbQ.html If that did not help release the Red Lever (RL) from 5 then I would think about the Bight Amplitude and Pattern Selector. So that RL turns the Bight Amplitude and Pattern Selector. (BAPS) That's the part surrounding the bottom of the cam stack. As you face the front of the machine there is a Ball Pivot Socket on the left side of the BAPS. Like a little cup that accepts the Ball Pivot on the end of the Needle Bar Driving Arm. (NBDA) When you slide that Red Lever left and right it moves the BAPS and that positions the NBDR to move the NBVB to make the NB swing left and right for ZZ sewing. On the 401A it is more complicated because of all the pattern settings of those two front knobs/dials. To sew regular straight stitches the dial setting is A-K and the RL setting is 3. Think of that 3 setting as putting the NBDR and the NBVB in a neutral spot so the Needle Bar CAN'T swing. If oiling the NBVB properly did not help "release" a stuck part in there then that Ball Pivot on the NBDA may be stuck in the little cup or even have popped out of the cup and is jamming up the BAPS from moving. A video about an NBDA is here: kzread.info/dash/bejne/ppeYqbizfJy6ZtI.html to give you a look at the parts. It is more work to get to on the 401A b/c of the selector shafts from the two knobs going to the back of the machine. Instructions for removing the NBDA are on page 159 of the 401A Service Manual. Those are the two areas I would look at first if the machine was on my bench If you need manuals, the Instruction Manual (top of the list) is free from Singer here: www.singer.com/search/support?title=401 The Service Manual is free if you email andymanuals53@gmail.com and ask for it by name. I'll have them send it back free to you then erase your email. Good Luck, Linda, and thanks for watching my channel.

Thanks!

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

Wait!! I'm thanking you for your generosity, Pat. 🙏

@PatriciaSpayd

Жыл бұрын

Best tutorship ever! And I’m very grateful. Wow! Stitches great zigzags!

HI Andy- I am so glad you are back. You are my go to person for videos. Tried this exact method on two machines and it worked! I inspect machines for the Salvation Army and we have two 401As that we are going to sell at our upcoming fabric fair in a few weeks. I loosened them both up and everything moves now. Thing is, neither the special stitches OR the cams work in either and I have a feeling that It might be user error. Ive read the manual many times and just can't figure out what I'm doing wrong. The stitches on all options just proceed a zig zag. Can you suggest what I may be doing wrong?

@andytubesewing1953

10 ай бұрын

What are the chances that two donated model 401A machines would have the exact same problem? If you are getting any kind of a ZZ stitch it means the follower is touching a disc and moving the Needle Bar Driving Arm to swing the needle. If you remove the arm cover you should be able to watch the lifters carry the follower up & down the Index pins to different levels to line up with the stitch you selected. When you put the machine in the AK3 position for a straight stitch, the follower should be pulled away from the disc on the cam stack. Knobs at A & K and Red Lever at 3. That is the first basic test, to see if you can straight stitch. If not you have a problem right there with the knobs, levers, and followers. Setting the knobs to BL and Rel Lever 1 thru 5 is a basic ZZ stitch. If you can't sew that it's the same kind of problem with the lifters, followers, etc. If it does work, then go to B R 5 and sew scallops. You should see the lifters move the follower to the scallop disc You must understand what the knobs do b/c if the knob does not "lock in" on the letter the the follower will not be at the correct height. Maybe the Cam Selector Shaft Stops are out of adjustment is just one of many possibilities. There are so many moving parts involved with ZZ on this model that it is very easy to go down several rabbit holes, get lost, and never find an answer. Here is my 401A Playlist (you may know where this is already, but...) kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO Here is the 403A Playlist: kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKKyqvdDRwS-9MfLuwSNJTcg There are videos in the playlists that pertain to the cam stack, the lifters, followers, driving arm, how to zero out the stack, etc. If you watch a little of the video you may learn how the parts are supposed to work and then see if they do on your machine. Just work on one machine at a time. Finally, to be honest, many times I was paid just to tell the sewist they were not following the directions in the manuals for pattern sewing. A few times there was a missing or broken part, usually when a guy said, "Here honey, hold my beer and I'll fix your machine" 😀 I wish I could tell you do A, B & C and that will fix it, but without the machine in front of me I can't do it.

@amyq5615

10 ай бұрын

Hi Andy. Thank you so much for your detailed reply. I'll be back at Salvation Army on Wednesday and check them out. I'll be sure to watch all of your videos first. I'm sure it is user error cause chances are slim that the same thing could be happening to both. We get so many donated machines here that it is a wonderful way to make money for the Salvation Army. All good causes. Thank you for what you do. I wish I could meet you in person. You are like a movie star to me. No kidding!

@andytubesewing1953

10 ай бұрын

@@amyq5615 That's a lot of videos to watch but maybe just glance through them to see the ones that affect the camp stack and knobs and lever areas. Thank you for your kind words to me. I have bought machines from Goodwill. As a matter of fact, I'm just finishing up a beautiful 329 k that I hope to make a new video for. It's going very slow because of my illness but I'm happy to be able to work on it a little bit here and there. Thanks for what you're doing with the machines, they're definitely worth saving

Vverrryyyyyyy helpful

@andytubesewing1953

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you very much! ✨

@aldomontes5395

3 жыл бұрын

@@andytubesewing1953 just got the machine and thought the nob was broken but thanks to you i did what you did and now it runs awsome and sewing now

@andytubesewing1953

3 жыл бұрын

@@aldomontes5395 I'm glad you found the video, Aldo! Thanks for fixing it and getting it back in service! Happy Sewing.

Andy, do you use grey Scotchbrite (TM) at all. it's invaluable for taking the old varnish off parts.

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Sure, I have used green, grey and white and the work nicely for areas they can reach. I mostly use Krud Kutter for removing the grease, oil and grime from parts b/c it gets into all the small and tiny places the pads can't get into. The white or grey pads can make a needle bar clean and brite for sure, but can't get inside the hole for the needle or clean the inside of a needle clamp, etc.

love all the vids. i just bought one of these. where and in what order would i start to clean this? i don't want to get it all out of wack and i heard that sometimes you need to this step before that step. does that make sense? hope this message finds you in good health. thanks for all the videos.

@andytubesewing1953

2 жыл бұрын

I'd say the start and progression are up to you based on how much dismantling you want to do. My 401A Playlist concerns mostly the arm parts b/c that is usually what needs the most attention and is the most confusing to folks. kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO My 403A Playlist gives a better idea of how I approach a more complete dismantling of a Slant Needle machine, like presser bar then needle bar, handwheel, motor, feed regulator, etc. kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKKyqvdDRwS-9MfLuwSNJTcg There are only a couple places where there needs to be one part before the other like to remove the take-up lever you need to remove the presser and needle bars first, then reverse that during reinstallation. It will make sense to you as you go, such as removing the needle bar driving arm before the vibrating bracket b/c the arm attaches to the bracket My 404 Playlist is more of a step-by-step dismantling.kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKIB4kvIHCfHYuyLMUp5A4UI Keep in mind that removing all these parts for cleaning is a personal preference. You can get about 90% of the gunk out of a machine just by using Krud Kutter Cleaner & Degreaser, brushes, a spray hose or shower nozzle, and a leaf blower, then placing new oil and grease with just a few parts removed. kzread.info/dash/bejne/nYyOqs2se5rYd7Q.html Many people are hesitant to remove parts b/c they just have not ever done anything like that and I make my videos slow and repeat instructions as I go. I tell them just start at one part of the machine, like remove, clean, and replace the presser bar b/c it's hard to mess that up. If you are comfortable, then do the needle bar, if that goes well take out the bobbin parts. DO NOT take off any part that you are nervous about and when you have off whatever you want, then do the wash & dry. I have hundreds of emails from around the world from folks who have done this and are very happy & rewarded with the results. Some took a few parts and a few took out much more than I do, haha. Go slow, use good screwdrivers, and take pictures as you go for when you reinstall. Have fun. Good luck.

Thank you so much for such an informative video. My problem will sound similar to another posted but I still can’t fix mine. When I press the the outer selector the lift goes back just far enough to slip out of the slot it should stay in. Can I loosen the screw on the cross shaft and slide the lift arm back just enough so it doesn’t slip out of the slot? If not, is there an alternative?

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Hi, Mary Ann. I think you could do that. Can't hurt to try it, right? You could always move it back. I don't know if you have seen it, but one of the videos in the playlist for model 401A is about removing and replacing the knobs, lifters and followers. If your plan does not solve the problem maybe you could check the video out and see how those parts are setup. kzread.info/dash/bejne/X6iA1s1ritzXnps.html Thank you for watching my channel and good luck.

Have you decided on how to proceed with the sheared off top cover machine screw?

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Not yet. I'm saving that for later since I'm still getting suggestions on methods. Worse case I have to drill it out, rethread and use a larger screw. The hole in the cover can handle that, but I already found vintage replacement screws in my parts box and hope to keep the machine original, the poor thing has been beaten up enough, hahaha. Thanks for asking, and for watching my channel.

Andy, everything is moving well with the white knob, but the tan knob won’t operate the ring around the notched post. The shaft moves when I push the knob in but the finger isn’t budging the lifter up. I’ve oiled and used heat but it’s stuck. What to do?

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

Sometimes the lifter finger can slip out of the slot of the follower and get jammed against another part. While you turn and twist the knob try pulling with the fingers of your other hand and try moving the follower up or down. The follower can definitely get stuck with old oil, but usually, a penetrating oil or degreaser and heat will loosen it. I do have a video about removing the knobs, shafts, lifters, and followers. I do that anyway to clean everything. I had a lifter finger in the back that had slipped out of the follower slot and jammed so hard I had to take it all apart just to clear the jamb. The finger was bent and I think someone tried prying it up with a tool or something.

Question: I deep cleaned my recently acquired singer 500, and once it was all back together, i began tuning and alignment. For the cam stack selector switches my front follower with the "special" setting works flawlessly. The rear follower moves smoothly. However, the knob stops at "B" and will not move up to the "A" position. I have taken the arm back out to make sure everything is aligned properly, and it appears to be, i have also ensured the cam stack is seated all the way. Any ideas on how to fix the issue with this knob and rear follower?

@andytubesewing1953

5 ай бұрын

Here is some info that may help. Playlist for model 401A: kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO Video for remove/replace knobs/lifters/followers: kzread.info/dash/bejne/X6iA1s1ritzXnps.html Download a FREE PDF copy of the original 46-page Service Manual for Model 500A & 503A from the Sewing Dude: sewingdude.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/singer-500-service-manual.pdf 401A & 500A parts are almost all identical. The knobs on the 500A are different, and the screws for it are in a different location. Knobs & Cam SELECTOR Shaft R & R instruction s are on page 35. Good Luck, and thanks for saving that machine and getting it back in service. Good Luck.

When some of the mechanisms and linkages get bind up, can it damage the motor and or motor gears?

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

I have not experienced that or heard of it happening. The 0.7AMP motor would stall before and gear damage. If you kept giving the motor power when it stalled I guess you could overheat it and damage the motor brushes, but you would not do that. Thanks for watching another one. Take care.

I have two 500A s...Thelma and Louise. Your vids have gotten Thelma stitching away...Louise is next! These machines are such wonders...would not consider having a new one now.

@andytubesewing1953

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for fixing those beauties. Love the names. Good luck then.

i am really enjoying your videos. But I have a problem that i haven't seen on your videos. When I try to zero out the machine, using the A& L lever positions, everything works fine. When i try to move the needle to the right using D and K, the needle stops moving as soon as i move the red lever to the right out of the 3 Detent the needle bar driving arm stops moving. And will not adjust. It seems like something is binding the needle bar drive arm from moving to the right. I've gone thru everything, I just cant' locate where the bind is.

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Hi, Lin. First, let me say you can go to this link and download a FREE copy of the Service Manual which is good to have if you own this model sewingdude.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/singer-401-service-manual1.pdf The ZERO OUT instructions are on page 140. I don't know your machine, of course, but if I was having the problem I would make sure the machine was actually going into the D + K setting and I mean on the lifters and index pins and not just the knobs and indicator plate on the front of the machine. This model has a lot of moving parts, as you've seen, and I've experienced where the lifter does not fall into the correct slot on the index pin, say for K, but goes into a slot one down, or gets stuck between slots. When the lifters are raised up from the bottom the followers engage the paddle of the driving arm and the cam stack. If they don't fall into the slot on the pin they are kind of jamming up against the paddle and maybe the cam stack and when you are trying to move from 3 toward 5 the driving arm can't swing because one of the followers is pushing against the paddle. Sounds complicated, right? So look. If you put the knobs into regular plain ZigZag mode can you then move the red lever over to 4 and 5? If so, then you know it is not the width bracket (amplitude bracket) that is blocked so in D + K something else is blocking the red lever as I mentioned above. It's a frustrating machine, especially if neglected and dirty and dried oil prevents those parts from moving just right. I have videos about the lifters, followers and index pins and all that in my 401A "trouble" playlist here: kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO Maybe they can help you. I would start my troubleshooting by putting it in normal ZZ B + L + 1 thru 5 and see if the lever moves. Good Luck.

Hi Andy! Is there any you could help me with my needle position? Even tho I switch it on the machine it doesn't move the needle over

@andytubesewing1953

2 ай бұрын

Are you asking about the RED LEVER being used to position the needle left or right? I think how it moves depends on the settings of the two knobs. An example is setting the knobs at A-K and the Red Lever at 3 is for straight stitch sewing in the center position and moving the lever left or right moves the needle bar in that directions. In other settings of the knobs the Red Lever is for ZigZag width. Like B-L for ZZ. Try A-K 3 and see if the needle centers then move it to 2 or 1 or 3 or 4 to go left or right. You can only position the needle when it is up out of the fabric. If you need the Instruction Manual to learn about the Red Lever settings and other control settings you can download a free copy from this page: ismacs.net/singer_sewing_machine_company/manuals/singer-401-slant-o-matic-sewing-machine.pdf

I have a problem with the front lifter being so lose that it comes out and goes to the top and I have to take the lid off to drop it back down only for it to slip off again. This is on a Singer 600. What screw do I need to adjust for that lifter not to swing out too far?

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Where the 401A/500A models have the control knobs your 600 has levers but many parts are the same. Here is a video I made of removing and replacing those lifters and parts. Seeing that may help you understand your machine better: kzread.info/dash/bejne/X6iA1s1ritzXnps.html I also have several other videos for the 401A in a playlist: kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO If these videos are not enough to help you fix your problems on the 600 then you can always buy and download the Service Manual for it. It will have exact instructions for working on the model. You can find it here: site.tandtrepair.com/600TandSstuff.html If you use my coupon code of andy-h-yt you will get 20% off everything until 8-1-2020

Thank you. I got the right side working using the oil. But the left side of the selection switch still won’t turn. The shaft moves backward but the lifter(?) tries to move but can’t. Hair dryer doesn’t seem to help. Anything else I can try?

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

This happened to me a lot on several models. It got to the point I was just spending hours working on this, then that, then something else. I found out, for me, it was just easier to take parts off, clean them with Krud Kutter or some other cleaner, put them back on and adjust to the service manual settings. I found cleaning a machine, even without removing all the parts, clears up about 80+% of movement and stitching problems. I have several videos on my channel of cleaning a machine with the KK in bucket or shower, rinsing with tap water, and drying with a leaf blower or hairdryer. New oil & grease and good to go. Here is a 401A video of removing the knobs, lifters, and followers: kzread.info/dash/bejne/X6iA1s1ritzXnps.html You know I have several videos for this model, right? kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO I get that many (most?) people do not want to start taking parts off. If you feel that way I can only say try and clean the parts as best you can, but at least watch the video to see where the parts are and how they work. Maybe you will spot a stuck part on your own machine then. You don't know what you don't know and maybe can't tell what's stuck or out of place. I cleaned a 403A once by just removing the covers and pulling ou the motor. That's it, then washed and dried it. It got about 90% of all the old gunk out and after fresh oiling, everything worked well. That was a two-hour job.

@julieveitia2979

4 жыл бұрын

Andy Tube thank you! I finally got it. The back riser was “glued” in position by old grease. I inherited the machine and love it. I have the original book for a 401 (machine is 401A). But it doesn’t list part numbers for needles, feet, bobbins, etc. where can I find this info? Thanks bunches!!

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

15x1 needles. You can download a free copy of the Instruction Manual from Singer at this safe link: www.singer.com/search/support?title=401 Choose the one at the top of the list. It's 116 pages. The Fabric, Thread, Needle Chart is on page 5. The manuals show not only how to use all the features of the machine, but also the attachments/feet and examples of using them and making dozens of patterns. There is a very nice section for maintaining the machine and where to add oil and grease. Please consider using these high quality lubrication products if possible. www.triflowlubricants.com/product/tri-flow-superior-lubricant-drip-bottle/ www.triflowlubricants.com/product/tri-flow-synthetic-grease/ In it's heyday the 401A was considered "The Cadillac of Singer Machines". Happy sewing.

Hi Andy - been trying your method for 2 days and my inner stitch selector knob (dark brown on the 500a) won’t budge. Any other suggestions? Also then outer stitch selector knob (gold) came off. Any tips on how to get that back on?

@andytubesewing1953

3 жыл бұрын

It can be surprising how hard dried oil can get. It can glue parts together. Using a degreaser like Krud Kutter degreaser can help break things loose, as can alcohol and even new fresh oil. Heating with a hairdryer can speed things up as far as softening old gunk. You may also have a part out of place, like metal to metal that is preventing movement. I made a lot of videos about those parts around the cam stack because they cause problems when dirty, forced, or misadjusted. Here is a playlist of the videos if you have not seen it already: kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO besides this video you commented on, I have videos for removing the parts (and reinstalling them) kzread.info/dash/bejne/X6iA1s1ritzXnps.html One more thing to keep in mind is that there are minor differences between the 401A in this video and the 500A you have. You can download a free copy of the Singer Service Manual for Model 500A/503A at this link: sewingdude.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/singer-500-service-manual.pdf That manual will have everything I did in my videos, plus much more and all for your exact machine. You may have different screws, or locations of screws, on those knobs of yours so the manual can be very helpful.

@maryaozer

3 жыл бұрын

Andy Tube thank you!

@andytubesewing1953

3 жыл бұрын

@@maryaozer Sure, no worries, and good luck. BTW, I also have a parts diagram for the model, and if you think it can help you just email andymanuals53@gmail.com and ask for the 500A parts manual. You can not download it from Singer any longer. It's free for the asking, I reply with the PDF attached and then delete your email. Take Care.

Hi Andy I have got singer Sewing Machine model number 5802 and it is freeze on just one stitch number 5 not increase or decrease if I change 1 2 3 4 nothing effect just same stitch please help me

@andytubesewing1953

2 жыл бұрын

Model 5802 is a 1988 product made in Brazil and I've never seen one. Lots of plastic and small metal pieces in the upright arm behind the dial and under the bed that affect the feed dog and feed dog movement is what determines the length of a stitch. I have no access to Service Manuals from Brazil and no experience with the model. You may be able to find a parts list/manual online that could help you. Good luck.

Hi Andy. I was able to get the dials unstuck but the back one (knob on left) won’t go up and down all the way unless I hold the paddle out of the way. (When I do that the needle bar line up too). But when I let go of the paddle it goes back and dial won’t work (and needle bar pulls to the right). I don’t know how to adjust this. I have a video but can’t find your email address.

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

If you post/upload your video to your KZread Channel and give me the link to it I will be happy to watch it. So here are all the videos I made for Model 401A https: //kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO One of those videos is about Removing all those knobs and lifters for cleaning and adjustment: kzread.info/dash/bejne/X6iA1s1ritzXnps.html Here is a video about the needle bar driving arm on the 403A that can show you how it is to be installed. Maybe you can spot something out of place or adjustment on your machine? kzread.info/dash/bejne/ppeYqbizfJy6ZtI.html

@M.C.W.62

4 жыл бұрын

Andy Tube - Hi ANDY! With your help I fixed it !!! The knobs now work. My problem was where the lifter was placed on that horizontal bar. It was too far back. Thanks so much

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

@@M.C.W.62 Nicely done. Thanks for not giving up on it.

I watched this to the end. So much help and mine was so bad and I got it all moving freely. But...I can't get the Selector uo to A. It is like something is stopping it from going up the last groove.

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

I think you are correct; something is stopping it. It may be something as simple as the selector pointer being bent. Think of this though; when you turn those knobs metal pasts called Lifters should slide up and down on metal posts called Index Pins near the cam stack. If those are dirty or out of adjustment and can't move to the normal place then that will prevent the Selector from moving. Whew! Is that TMI? 👀 Here is a video about the knobs, lifters, and followers: kzread.info/dash/bejne/X6iA1s1ritzXnps.html Here is a video about those index pins: kzread.info/dash/bejne/lp1s1Neyc5DIn9o.html Those can show you how those parts work so you can determine if something is dirty, blocked, or out of adjustment. The Cam Selector Shaft Stops could even be set wrong: kzread.info/dash/bejne/opN5vNB6Z8eeY7Q.html All 17 videos for Model 401A are in a Playlist you can find here: kzread.info=PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO To isolate your problem I start at the dial and turn it until it stops, back and forth a little, and watch the part it connects to, then the next part, then the next part until I see something out of normal. Remember there are two selector knobs and two sets of lifters, followers, and index pins, so if the other knob turns to all the stops you can compare those parts to the parts not moving. Yikes, I probably made it worse, right? 😳 Good luck, don't quit, and thanks for watching my channel.

@laurierockman9987

Жыл бұрын

@@andytubesewing1953 you are so sweet to answer with all this help! Sending you hugs and I'll review your solutions! Thanks!!!

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

@@laurierockman9987 Sure, welcome. There is nothing on this machine you can not fix. I know you can do it, Laurie. BTW, you can download a free PDF copy of the 46-page Service Manual here: sewingdude.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/singer-401-service-manual1.pdf Maybe that would be helpful? Good luck.

@laurierockman9987

Жыл бұрын

Indeed it would be. I'm having such a good time with this project and have deduced a few issues. Yes I will immediately download this and then go walk my poor patient dog! Thanks!

I broke the inside of my button hole knob on my older singers there was a little piece of plastic part that broke. Do you know if I can order that part an fix it?

@andytubesewing1953

2 жыл бұрын

There are sure a lot of "older Singer" models out there. Maybe we could start with a model number of the machine in question?

@sharonrowland3041

2 жыл бұрын

Serial # C 80725103 and another #below the on switch is57820C

@andytubesewing1953

2 жыл бұрын

@@sharonrowland3041 57820C is a model number, like MPN 57820C Manufacturers Part Number. I can find the instruction manual at Singer, www.singer.com/search/support?title=57820 but have no record of the exact parts diagram/manual. There are a handful of variations of this model, depending on the number of stitch styles and if flatbed or free-arm. I have a parts manual for some of the variations you can email for a free copy if you want at andymanuals53@gmail.com maybe it would help. It will be hard to find a replacement part for a small plastic piece. If anyone had parts for that model it may be the complete module of the button and dial. Sometimes an eBay seller will dismantle and sell parts for a machine but I did not find that, only a couple of your model for sale, like $60. www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2380057.m570.l1313&_nkw=singer+57820c&_sacat=0 That's eBay, but here is a seller on ETSY that IS selling the parts of the machine, so maybe you'll get lucky if you see the part in question, www.etsy.com/listing/804148605/vintage-singer-57820-sewing-machine I've had the best results in finding the broken part and gluing it back together with baking soda and super glue, or forming a replacement part with J-B Weld SteelStik Epoxy Putty.

Hi! Novice here. I’ve learned a ton from your videos. I have a Singer 457 and somehow the tightening nut on the stitch length selector fell out and got lost while I was transporting the machine. It’s the piece on the end with the slot for the screwdriver. The internal parts are all still there, I just need that nut, I guess you call it. Any idea where I could get one? Thanks so much for any help you can provide.

@andytubesewing1953

2 жыл бұрын

I've never found anyone who makes the parts new, so always have to find used parts on eBay or a similar selling website. Here is an example www.ebay.com/itm/292230353915?epid=661478743&hash=item440a4953fb:g:-eoAAOSwWf9ZpFLr It is common that they will only sell the entire assembly of parts and not just a screw, washer or nut by itself.

@catherinesmith3283

2 жыл бұрын

@@andytubesewing1953 Thanks for the link, I got the part. I’m trying to now find a video about how to reassemble this entire lever, because the flat metal tab (?) that’s square on one end and thinner at the other with little teeth also fell out and I don’t know how to get it all back together. Do you have a video for that? Thanks! Edit: I think I got it. Took apart the same lever on my 404 and saw how that one was assembled.

@andytubesewing1953

2 жыл бұрын

@@catherinesmith3283 Maybe this will help. kzread.info/dash/bejne/Zp5opNiSoK6rgdo.html

Hi Andy. I have a question but I can't seem to find your email. Basically I blind bought a 411G. The horizontal shaft that the hand wheel normally turns is stuck. The machine is gummed up with old oil and grease. I'm wondering whether it's a job I can do myself or should I pay to have it cleaned and fixed? Thank you for your time if you answer 😁

@andytubesewing1953

3 жыл бұрын

Singer model 411G is a german made slant needle model. I've never work on one or even seen it in person. I've been told it has mechanics similar to the 401A. You say the arm shaft is stuck, but it could be any or some of the parts on the machine that are stuck together with dried, varnished oil. A very common problem, especially when other than sewing machine oil was used on the machine. Common practice to to buy plain sewing machine oil, petroleum distillate, like Singer, Lilly or Dritz, or the preferred TriFlow oil, and generously oil it everywhere shown in the instruction manual, which is available free here: www.singer.com/search/support?title=411 The idea is that the new fresh oil will soften the old gunk and you will eventually be able to start turning the handwheel (don't force it) and get things moving. Many people help it along by using a hairdryer. I have done this, and with patience it works. My feeling is then I have a dirty, stinky, gummy machine with even more oil in it. I developed a method using Krud KUtter Cleaner and Degreaser to totally degrease the whole machine, except the motor. I do this in the shower after pretreating the machine with the KK on a workbench to scrub the worst areas, like the gears and worm gear of the arm shaft. WHile in the shower I scrub it some more, then rinse with plain water and dry it with a leaf blower. OMG, right? The drying is very important, then back to the bench for fresh grease and oil. I've done this to dozens of machines. Here is a video about a 403A: kzread.info/dash/bejne/gGeju9WNcq3Ydqw.html You can watch most of my videos at 1.5 or even 2x speed unless it's a tricky installation part. You DO NOT need to remove so many parts as I do, and you will still get 90+% of the gunk out. So, you asked if this is a job you can do, or pay a shop to do. That is up to you, but a few thousand people have washed a machine like this since I put up the first washing video. Take the motor out whether you wash the machine or just oil & heat. Here are a couple of playlists that other viewers told me helped them work on their German slant machine: kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKKyqvdDRwS-9MfLuwSNJTcg That's 43 videos. People also have said the 401A Service Manual has helped them and a free copy is available here: sewingdude.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/singer-401-service-manual1.pdf "Thank you for your time if you answer"... you are welcome.

@natalieclancy8992

3 жыл бұрын

@@andytubesewing1953 thank you Andy for your advice. I'm going to do it! I'll let you know how I get on. You and your videos have helped sooooo many people and saved them tons of money. A huge Bravo from France. You're brill, don't stop. I'm an English woman living and working in France btw 😉

@andytubesewing1953

3 жыл бұрын

@@natalieclancy8992 Yes, you can do it! It's rewarding to have such a clean machine to work with when you are finished. If you do take parts off just take some pictures as you go to help during reassembly and keep the screws with the part you remove. I get a lot of emails with a picture of a screw asking where does it go, hehe. I've been to England, but not France. I hope you are enjoying it there and good luck.

I have problem with my new model singer(talent3327). Stitches selector doesn't work.i cant change stitches.How i can fix it?

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

I don't have a clue. That is a modern machine, not vintage like I work on. I've never seen the machine before, although there are similar model numbers to it. I can't eve find records for it to try and help you. Sorry 🙁

😍😍

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

😄

Andy. Are you still repairing these machines.

@andytubesewing1953

Жыл бұрын

Sorry Donna, I quit making videos and working on machines for health reasons about a year ago. I wish I could recommend somebody but the other two guys that I trusted have passed on. Thanks for watching my channel

@donnabarnhurst1749

Жыл бұрын

@@andytubesewing1953 Ih I am so sorry. God bless you.

Do you take sewing machines to repair for public? We have a 401A that seems previous owner used graphite to release the select knobs.

@andytubesewing1953

3 жыл бұрын

Sorry, Maria, I do not take customer work any longer. I made this channel to help people do it yourself for cleaning and repairing the machines. This is something you guys could do easily. It is a good idea to get the graphite out of the machine, along with all the old grease and oil. Here is a couple of playlists that could help with that. You'll see that I remove many of the parts before cleaning, but you do not have to do that if you don't wish to. kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKKyqvdDRwS-9MfLuwSNJTcg There are 42 videos about it, including how to wash, dry, and lube the machines. Depending on how much you want, there are a hundred more that pertain to parts on your model, like tension, the foot pedal, and the motor, etc. On my playlist page, you can look for Model numbers 401A, 403A, 404, 503A, the foot pedal, and the motor playlists. kzread.info/dron/USPDsHaFtRoz1VA2U1xJ4w.htmlplaylists?view_as=public One separate video I like is about speeding up the motor for $10 kzread.info/dash/bejne/oq6lltavaNTUaZc.html Good luck, and thanks for watching my channel.

@MariaLopez-yk9xm

3 жыл бұрын

Andy Tube Thank you for replying. I enjoy your videos and the have helped with servicing the machines, I’m just not too keen on taking them apart I’m sure I can take them apart, it’s just the putting them back together part.

@andytubesewing1953

3 жыл бұрын

@@MariaLopez-yk9xm I get the reassembly hesitation 😀 You can do it but you can also leave most of the part on when you clean it. On the 401A the problem is cleaning around all those lifters and followers and the cam stack, but if you are patient and have some brushes, like a tube or bottle-shaped brushes, you can get the machine about 80 to 90% clean which is a huge improvement. I have done something similar on other zigzag models where I remove the covers, bobbin case, and motor and preclean it on the bench and wash it in the shower like that. It does not hurt the light or wires or plugs. You just have to rinse it well and dry it extremely well b/c the water will hide around all those little parts. Then put grease on the gears and oil in all the places shown in the manual and away you sew. If the machine still needs some adjusting at least you are working on a clean fresh smelling device and the repair or adjustment is easier. Washing the machine like that eliminates so many little problems too, like sticky lifters, followers, and knobs. Whatever you decide I wish you the best of luck. Take care.

Why does the singer 401a skip stitches?

@marthacasanova607

2 жыл бұрын

I really like your videos but first my singer 401a wasnt stitching now its stitching but missing some stitches and breaking the top thread.

@andytubesewing1953

2 жыл бұрын

@@marthacasanova607 Often a sign of too much tension on the needle thread; try a lower tension number. Common causes for skipped stitches. NEEDLE IS WRONG use 15x1 needle in sizes 9,11,14,16 ,or 18. NEEDLE INSTALLED WRONG install all the way up in the clamp with flat side to the back. BENT NEEDLE replace/try a new needle. NEEDLE THREADED WRONG kzread.info/dash/bejne/c2R9pMyHoK6un5M.html BOBBIN INSTALLED WRONG kzread.info/dash/bejne/hpZn0K2Ooqjad7A.html CHEAP/OLD THREAD change to better or new thread. TENSION ASSEMBLY IS DIRTY clean the tension unit kzread.info/dash/bejne/l4qAy6d9XampcZs.html BOBBIN CASE IS DIRTY remove case and clean it and brush away lint in the area kzread.info/dash/bejne/fICNsNKmdrSZp7Q.html NEEDLE BAR HAS SLIPPED TO WRONG HEIGHT Check the needle bar height and reset if needed kzread.info/dash/bejne/lWWNysh_ocjbhqw.html TIMING HAS BEEN LOST Check the timing and reset if needed kzread.info/dash/bejne/lXyf09GSic_cgqg.html

Please tighten the screws on the outer selector knob before I go crazy?

@andytubesewing1953

4 жыл бұрын

Hmmm... I'll think about that, but if that could make you go crazy you may be too close to the edge already?

WOW IM SEW HAPPY TO ANNOUNCE I UNJAMMED THE STITCH SELECTOR THX TO YOU ANDY. 🎉🎉🎉🎉 ❤ Yours I way more gooped up then mine.

@andytubesewing1953

11 ай бұрын

CONGRATULATIONS 🏆 ⭐

How do I put back the housing? I can't get the stitch diagram back in place. I can't find a video

@andytubesewing1953

11 ай бұрын

Here are all my 401A videos in a Playlist: kzread.info/head/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO If you look down the list of videos there is one for removing the knobs, lifters & followers. kzread.info/dash/bejne/X6iA1s1ritzXnps.html That video may help you.

You bring it in the shower ? How long does it take to dry? Or you use a blow-dryer?

@andytubesewing1953

11 ай бұрын

I certainly do! Nothing like a nice hot shower to get clean. I've also washed it on the patio with a 5-gallon bucket and the hose. If you just "let it dry" you'll get a lot of rust. You need to dry it completely right away. I prefer to use a leaf blower b/c it is much faster than a hair dryer, but a hair dryer will do. Then you must apply oil & grease to prevent flash rust. Often the machine is "seized" or "frozen" after washing b/c you've washed out all the oil in the bushings, but putting oil on and in it right away gets things moving quickly. You should always be ready for the 3 steps and do them together, Wash, Dry, and Oil. kzread.info/dash/bejne/gGeju9WNcq3Ydqw.html