Someone had this in the desk for free on the side of the road. I couldn’t believe it. Best find I’ve ever had

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

23 күн бұрын

I love these kind of stories. One person’s trash is another’s treasure. Truly a treasure you’ve found. Excellent job. 😎👍🏼

I was about to donate my Mother's 401 until I saw your video. She passed in 2016 and had not used the machine in decades. I had oiled the machine and it was jammed taking it apart was never going to happen. I sprayed it and slowly it un-jammed. Now I will use it for the occasional project then see if my young niece shows any aptitude for sewing. Hopefully it will stay in the family after I'm gone.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

12 күн бұрын

Good decision. It’s a classic machine with solid family provenance that makes it even more special. 😎👍🏼

I bought one at Goodwill this past June for $19.99. It was sitting askew in its beautiful cabinet. It was originally marked at $29.99. The bolt thingy attaching it to the cabinet was broken off on one side and couldn’t fit in the cabinet correctly to close it. The goodwill lady said they all thought the machine was broken too, but it runs like a dream. My machinist husband and I cleaned her up, oiled and inspected and all that was needed was a new bobbin rewind tire. My husband loves her, he is very impressed with the craftsmanship.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

That’s how it’s done. Find them, fix them up, and then behold your accomplishment. Well done and congratulations. 👍🏼😎

I just serviced two for a friend of mine. She said one was her moms and the other she found at a yard sale. She remembers calling her mom and telling her she saw it and her moms response was “RUN!!!” Lol So in other words, go get it now before it gets gone. She loves telling that story. I found mine in the cabinet at a thrift shop for 15$ It was filthy like it had been stored in a barn but cleaned up beautifully and works great.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

I love those stories and have many similar ones myself. They’re worth the effort and the money. 😎

@apiecemaker1163

10 ай бұрын

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 yes I agree

I got one abour 12 months ago, including table, for £50. My late mother had the same one and I have some lovely memories of her sewing mine and my sister's clothes when we were children. I got loads of accessories with it. I use it occasionally, it's a dream. Only the bobbin winder doesn't work. I hope my children make some money out of it when I'm gone ❤

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

Ай бұрын

If the winder doesn’t work, it can only be one of two things: 1)A drop of oil is needed 2)It needs a new winder ring (rubber) I’m glad you have that machine to rekindle those pleasant memories. 😎👍🏼

I have recently got two 411Gs (from different sellers) for A$20 each (I think that's about $13 US). One was missing a cable, and was in a desk style cabinet, which has a peeling veneer, but the machine is otherwise in great condition, just needed a clean and oil, and I'll have to tweak the tensions to get her sewing perfectly. The other is in a vinyl case and plastic base, which will need attention, and inside the top she's rusty, so I think I'll have to pull her apart and clean. The paint on the bed is also flaking, so I think I'll have to mask off the upper parts and strip/repaint her. Both are missing the unicorn chain stitch throat plate, so I'm on the lookout 😁 I think once they're all cleaned up, they will be wonderful machines, and probably my favourite, along with one of my two minty green 319s 😁

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

6 күн бұрын

With proper attention and application of time and elbow grease, they will sew like new. They’re well worth your time and effort.

Glad I saw this video; I inherited one from my grandmother that came with the storage table and knee actuator (the accessory kit is long gone, as she got it from someone else). And I was going to try to sell it for $100. Now I'm going to keep it!

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

Ай бұрын

Good call. If you ever need a sewing machine to get the job done, this one will do it. 👍🏼😎

About a month ago, I found a 401A at a local thrift store. It was bound-up so they discounted it. Has the original manual and accessory box. Brought it home and worked on it for a few hours. Runs perfectly now. Oh, and it came in a cabinet. All for $20. This is my second one. Yes, they are very well made and I love sewing on it. It would be the perfect machine if it was a free arm.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

Well done. They are definitely worth the effort to get them in top shape. Thanks for watching.👍😎

My Mom bought a gently-used 401A around 1960, and that's the machine I learned on. When she died, we kept the 2 Featherweights she had purchased at auctions, but we sold her 401A at the estate sale, and I have always regretted it. It was in a cabinet and had the knee lever control, which I love. I am going to be looking for one of these, and probably will get rid of a couple of my other machines to make room for it! Thanks for reminding us what a great machine this is!

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

That will be a fun and rewarding endeavor, to find the one that “got away”. You’ll be in great company, as so many of my customers have done the same. When they call me to service it, they are excited and anxious to see if it will sew like new. And of course, it always does. It’s kind of fun for me , just to be a part of it. 👍😎

I just got one of these in fantastic shape for under $100. With all the original attachments and manual. I’m still getting to know her. Beautiful machine. So well made.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

3 ай бұрын

They’re the gold standard for precision and quality in design and manufacturing. Brilliant purchase. 😎👍🏼

I had the 403a for many years & enjoyed it. 😍

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

Smooth operating works of art. 👍😎

Nice machine!

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

I wish I had ten of them. I would sell them all tomorrow and take a couple days off. They used to be more plentiful, but they’re get scarce as their popularity increases. They are masterpieces of design and engineering. 😎

I bought one at an estate sale, in a cabinet, manual, accessories as well as a Singer serger from the same year for $150.....pristine. I love them and all my sewist friends are super jealous. I honestly didn't know what I was getting until after I bought it and researched it. Right place, right time, doesn't happen to me often. I'm very grateful for this machine.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

5 ай бұрын

You have joined the club. Welcome. It’s a wonderful thing to “happen across” a treasure like you have found. To some it’s kismet, to others it’s serendipity. I call it being blessed. Well done. 👍😎

These are magnificent sewing machines. My 401A is a 1956 according the serial number. NA519176. So the 1958 date you give is off by a few years. The 401A retail price was $319 and in 1961 was close out priced at $199. Thanks for the video.

@1953childstar

6 ай бұрын

The retail price was $ 349.99 unless it was on sale or Singer took a "trade in"...

I have a 99, a 66 & a wonderful 201. I have computer machines too, but love sewing on the vintage machines. Thank you for your info on this machine, I plan on adding a 401a to my collection soon.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

4 ай бұрын

You’ve got a nice selection of machines. The 401-A would almost complete it for sure. But then, I have numerous customers who would compliment you on your “starter set”. 👍😎

I have one of these girls, got it at a thrift store, cleaned it some and oiled it but never used it much. Last fall I really did a deep cleaning and servicing and instead of selling it I kept it. I’ve sewed with it so much since then I’ve come to appreciate all it can do and is my daily sewer. I hope whoever is getting your machine plans to sew with it because that’s what it was made for. I’m just sorry I didn’t discover it sooner.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

I agree with you assessment. They are amazing pieces of precision engineering. 👍😎

I have one. Love it!

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

5 ай бұрын

They’re hard to beat. Even harder to break. 😎👍🏼

I bought this machine in 1957 for $330.00. I still have it and use it. Only oil once in awhile. I am getting old and dont sew much. It will probably go to thrift store and sell for very little.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

2 ай бұрын

It’s your call of course, but someone in your community will give you a decent price if you post it for sale. Try the Community senior center bulletin board, Nextdoor app, local classified ads, for starters. 😎👍🏼

Thank you!!!

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

5 ай бұрын

You’re welcome and thanks for watching. 😎👍🏼

@maryhall1181

5 ай бұрын

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 my friend Janet was given the 401A, she's very excited because now we know about! Again, thank you.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

5 ай бұрын

@@maryhall1181 😎👍🏼

I have two, because, why not? Off Ebay. Each for about $100. They are lovely. One is going to my sister in Chattanooga. Mine has one hinge missing on the side door, I need to find someone to repair it. Wish you were in NY, Randy!!

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

Even better,I wish you were in Texas. On second thought, maybe not. It has to be cooler in NY than it is here. Good job on the two 401’s. If just the pin fell out of the hole, you can get a replacement pin or snip a small finishing nail to length, and use that. If the ear with the hole broke off, that’s a job for JB Weld. It has worked for me on occasion.👍😎

😮 Amazing

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

Truly amazing. 👍😎

Saw one in a cabinet in a thrift store yesterday for 25 bucks, i hope its still there, im going back in the morning to get it!

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

7 ай бұрын

That’s a wise choice. A great machine for almost free. 😎👍🏼

Truly the last of the Mohicans.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

Absolutely. I buy every one I can find, and they move fairly quickly. It’s rare to find one in pristine condition with the original book and accessories. This is a premium machine at a premium price. I’ll probably kick myself for selling it so cheaply when I spot one for sale at $750. Wouldn’t be the first time. 😎

@ronalddevine9587

10 ай бұрын

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 But think of how happy you are making your customer, not to mention loyalty.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

@@ronalddevine9587 for sure 👍🏼

I had several think you have them now lol

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

I’m needing more if you can find them. 👍🏼😎

Just got a 401A off fb marketplace for $45. Runs like a dream, gonna take it apart and oil her all up (or have my husband do it lol) I’ll keep her forever. ❤️

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

6 ай бұрын

Well done. Keep it serviced and decide which of your heirs is worthy of its ownership.😂👍

I have a 431, it's similar to that one but with chain stitch, free arm and storage compartment.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

The 431 is truly unique. If those were widely available in the United States, they would be wildly popular and impossibly high priced.People would still line up to get one. 👍🏼

@gemmapeter7173

10 ай бұрын

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 It's a shame they had such small production run. Came across mine by chance on ebay being sold guy who had inherited it for far less than the others of its type because it wasn't running at full speed. Took a bet on it being something easily fixable, it was (the contacts in the pedal and the motors that were dirty and a few other bits that needed unsticking, cleaning and lubing). Worked a charm afterwards.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

@@gemmapeter7173 you can pretty much count on a happy ending when you’re dealing with machines of this high caliber of quality. I’ve gambled on many, that others had given up on and got them operating at 100 percent. 👍

@1953childstar

6 ай бұрын

@@gemmapeter7173 One Million # 401 machines were made between 1956 and 1961.. Is that a small "production run" ????

My goal is to have a 101, 201, and 401 to go along with my 301🤷🏻‍♂️.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

That’s an admirable goal and quite doable as well. The tough one will be a 101 with a working original motor. That can be a challenge. Good luck 🍀

I "inherited" this one (my sister doesn't sew). It was bought by dad in the 60's for my mom. He used it occasionally but I don't think it has ever been serviced. I need to clean it but is servicing it something I can do or should I take it to a professional? I am so glad I found your video because I knew nothing about it except that I loved sewing on it when I was young with my mother.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

4 ай бұрын

You can service it by watching my videos. That’s what’s so great about them, they’re very user friendly. 😎👍🏼

Hi! I am new to sewing and have recently been given my grandmothers sewing machine like this, but it is the slant o matic 503. I have tried to use it a couple times, but am having some issues with the tension. No matter how I adjust it the top and bottom, threads aren’t lining up or some are loose. It hasn’t been used in a while, do you think it just needs a tune up? I was looking into getting a new sewing machine, but after watching your videos I think I’m best off with using this one. Do you think it would be okay for slightly heavier fabrics? I’m looking to sew stretch denim in the future so I want to make sure I’m not going to break the machine. I really appreciate it, your videos have been so helpful

@PamelaMaass-bs1ec

5 ай бұрын

Yes, get a tune-up, you will love it. I have my mama's bought in 1960 and she and i sew on heavy duty denim (jeans) quite often. She was always patching my brothers and mine. I would not trade this machine for anything!

Wow i just opened one up that i had bought from a neighbor in Virginia -we are a military family and had it in storage for a 13 years! We just opened it today and its perfect! I plugged it in and it runs! Im just afraid to to take it in to get serviced🤨🤓

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

5 ай бұрын

Service it yourself. It’s easy to do. Take the top and bottom covers off and put a drop of oil on anything that pivots, slides, hinges, or, rotates. Don’t oil the motor and be careful oiling the motor drive pinion gear on the right rear next to the hand wheel. You can put a drop or two of oil in the oil port holes that are on the bed plate and the right side upright post. (Two each)😎👍🏼

@ambergangon2379

2 ай бұрын

​@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 do you have or could you make a do it yourself video tutorial for the 401A?

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

2 ай бұрын

@@ambergangon2379 I’ve got videos relating to the slantomatic line of Singer machines, how to service and troubleshoot as well. Pay special attention to running the motor, not under a load, to recondition it after the machine has been idle for a long time.

I have my grandmothers 401a. It doesnt stitch straight and makes a racquet while stitching. Any ideas? Where are you located? I had seen one in a thrift store, I have never seen a 401a out there before. I considered buying it but I passed. When I went back it was gone.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

6 ай бұрын

Put your dial settings on A-K-1 and make sure that the dials have sprung into position. If it doesn’t straight stitch, it will need to be oiled in all the right places. That will also eliminate the racket. Just an FYI: if I ever see a Singer 401-A for sale at a reasonable price, I buy it ON THE SPOT. They’re the best.

I’m going to look for a 401! Is this a good machine for a DIY to work on? Thanks

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

Yes it is. All the Slant-A-Matics are easy to make highly operational. 👍😎

Mom had one of these she bought new and she gave it to me. After cleaning and oiling it I am loving it. The only thing I don't like is the foot pedal. I don't know if a person can get a different pedal that will plug into the machine.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

You can get a different pedal for sure. Order one off the internet, or your local sewing machine service shop. It’s very easy to change.👍🏼

@lyndabuchholz1216

10 ай бұрын

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 I will check that out. I figured I was stuck with the original. Thanks!

@lyndabuchholz1216

10 ай бұрын

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 I just found one on Amazon!!! Thank you so very much!

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

@@lyndabuchholz1216 be sure to hold on to the old one, it’s designed to slide into the cabinet bracket that converts it to a knee control. And, it’s a top quality foot control and very much in demand.👍😎

@lyndabuchholz1216

10 ай бұрын

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 Thanks again. I don't know a lot about this machine. I know mom sewed for a living for many years and used this machine. Her husband found a cabinet for it but I doubt it is the right one since the machine sits a bit proud of the cabinet and I catch fabric on it. I didn't know there was a knee control. I will have to look for one of those.

I need to get the one I have serviced. where are you located?? Is there a way to find someone to service it. my local shop only works on modern machines.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

Ай бұрын

Don’t fall for the hogwash that the Singer 401 isn’t a state of the art “modern machine”. Every machine that’s “modern”, has a full rotary hook assembly-just like the 401 Singer. Every machine that’s “modern” has a drop in bobbin- like the Singer 401. The difference is, the 401 makes stitches with metal gears and internals whereas the “modern” machines do the exact same stitches with electronics and plastics as the drivers. The folks who don’t work on 401’s or support them, don’t know how to work on them and would just rather sell another “plastic fantastic” machine. If you are in a metropolitan area, there will be someone who can service your Singer 401. If not, learn to do it yourself. That’s the purpose of my channel. If something has you stumped, let me know and I’ll make a video that addresses it. I have 412 videos, with more on the way. I’m in Fort Worth, Texas if you want to BRING IT TO ME. I don’t accept any shipments of sewing machines, so come on down to Texas for a day or so. I’ll have it ready in time for your return trip. Sound ridiculous? It happens every week. 😎👍🏼

How do you compare the 401A vs the 401G? I know it was manufactured in Germany. I assume it was built using the same specs as the USA version, but I don't know for sure. I like it much more than I thought I would.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

They are virtually identical at first glance, but have a couple differences. They are slightly different cosmetically, but functionally, the only real difference is their bobbin winders. I prefer the bobbin winder on the 401-A probably because I’m more used to it. If I had to choose between the newest, nicest sewing machine on the market today, or a 401-G, I’d take the G in a heartbeat. 👍🏼😎

@dwaynetube

10 ай бұрын

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 I have a 401G and a 421G which is the freearm version of the 401. Never used a modern one since I got them. And I like the look of the Gs more than that of the A. The G version already has the look that was so much valued at the later rocketeers. I was alway wondering what those machines might have cost back in their day, so I was all ears when you talked about that 🙂

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

@@dwaynetube 👍🏼😎

Hi Randy, Is a 411G any good? They look similar.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

4 ай бұрын

They’re great machines. If you’re considering buying one, make sure that the voltage is correct for your country.👍😎

How does the 503A stack up to the model shown -- if you have all the cams (I do)?

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

They’re almost identical. Same platform with different stitches is all that’s different. Some of my customers prefer the 503A because the 401A can seem complicated. 😎

@tkarlmann

10 ай бұрын

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 Me? I _love_ complicated; but I already have a 503A -- and I went out and bought all the cams. Thanks so much for your reply!!

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

@@tkarlmann 👍🏼😎

Please help me. I need to know how to adjust needle position between front to back axle. My needle is scrarching the hook ever so slightly. I have adjusted the left to right axle so that it is just in the middle and timing is done as well as I could do it.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

9 ай бұрын

It’s supposed to whisper past the hook as it rotates.

I have a problem with my singer 401A. My thread is always breaking from my needle after I do my reverse stitch. I’ve cleaned and lubricated the machine and made sure there is no scratches for the thread to hang up on. Any tips or tricks on what to do to fix this?

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

8 ай бұрын

It will be an issue with either the needle, the presser foot, or the needle plate is my guess. Make sure the needle is a brand new one fresh out of the package. Be sure it’s the right size and design for what you’re sewing. Change it out if you have any doubts. Look for burrs in the backside and underneath your presser foot. Something is snagging the thread. Look for burrs on the backside of the needle plate. If there are dings and divots from previous needle hits, that will break the thread. If you’re sewing on something that’s very bulky and dense, that can also be an issue. Check for any rough edges on the underside of your bobbin case. Although it’s metal, the thread will cause an erosion of the plating sometimes. If you can feel a rough spot, polish it out with a diamond file or Emory cloth.

@loraleighpatridge7775

8 ай бұрын

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 I checked all that. It seems to be pullling my excess string from the needle back and getting hung in the bobbin area or knotted at the needle. I just now saw it. If they is a way to send you pictures I can.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

8 ай бұрын

@@loraleighpatridge7775 when you refer to the thread as “string”, I’m curious if you might be using an oversized thread.

As soon as my machine starts sewing, the thread breaks, could you help me with that? What can be?

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

8 ай бұрын

Your needle is installed improperly, or is bent, blunt, or the wrong needle.

Hi Randy…I inherited my mom’s 401J…the family lost the manual…do you know how to set it up for free motion quilting? Would appreciate anyone who know. Thank you

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

3 ай бұрын

First, get a slant embroidery foot, also called a free motion foot. It’s spring loaded to bounce up and down while stitching. Second, lift your needle plate release lever to the center position so that the plate rises up and is higher than your feeders. Third, turn your presser foot pressure knob counterclockwise and loosen it sufficiently to allow the movement of your fabric. No tension adjustment will be necessary, just leave it set on 4. Keep the fabric moving and regulate the movement of the fabric with the speed of the machine. The faster the motor speed, the more swift the movement of the fabric will need to be. And vice versa. Don’t use an oversized thread. Use an all purpose thread. 😎👍🏼

I thought I have exhausted all the 401 video’s out there but came across this one. I bought two original owner 401a’s on the same day about a year ago. I went completely thru one of them, cleaning checking ever adjustment in a service manual. It runs like a Swiss watch. I did buy an electronic pedal over the stock one. Having other domestic machines I have come to the opinion that the 401 is way underpowered. You did not mention anything like that. How do you think it compares power wise to other external or internal motor domestics ? I never tried original foot control, but now I’m curious if it will run more powerfully. Any and all of your thoughts would be highly appreciated. Bryan

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

7 ай бұрын

You may have a foot control issue. The original one is probably the best foot control ever made. Yours may need adjustment. Whenever any machine from that era has been sitting for a long time, it’s imperative that you disengage the hand wheel clutch and run the motor for at least 5 MINUTES to recondition the armature and motor brushes. Run it until it reaches a very high RPM jet like sound. The 401 is a powerful machine.

@bryancathey3242

7 ай бұрын

I’ll give it a try. I am a Tig welder of 45 years and just can’t get my head around any other foot pedal design than a pedal. Thks so much for your quick reply, appreciate it !

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

7 ай бұрын

@@bryancathey3242 there are pedal types out there that are non-electronic and they work well also. They are metal with a ceramic heat sink inside with compressible carbon discs. They’re old school and work well. They were replaced by the electronic ones because the electronic ones are lighter and cheaper. Do a search for foot controls and you will spot them. They’re inexpensive and reliable.

@1953childstar

6 ай бұрын

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 Agreed, it does have the best control made and if properly adjusted, there is no need for a "Cheap Chinese" electronic control...

Hello! Can this machine handle 4-6 of By Annies Soft and Stable with cotton/cotton canvas fabric on each side of the Soft and Stable for bag making? Thank you!

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

9 күн бұрын

I don’t think so. It’s for garments and an occasional denim seam. Making bags can be a challenge for many household machines. They’re just not designed for the heavier threads that are required. You might find a (cast iron) Singer 15 class, side load, straight stitch machine that will work for you.

@bbymks5

9 күн бұрын

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 dang it...I recently made All the Things Tote by Knot and Thread using my newish Janome 8200 and had to omit the side pockets because I didn't want to push my luck and that would have been 3 layers of the foam (I think it's 1/4" thick) with quilting cotton on both sides of each layer. I used a 40w Glide thread.

Hi Randy, I just found your channel and was curious what the market is for a 401A, is it a good time to sell one? I have one in a portable case, power cable and foot control, no accessory cams, likely needs a good cleaning & timing. My father worked for Singer for about 40 years and of course mom sewed. They gifted me the 401A a very long time ago and I've not used it for quite a while. Finding your channel sparked my curiousity. Thanks in advance for any guidance, insight. Regards

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

5 ай бұрын

Good question. If that is your only machine and you hope to sew one day, I’d suggest that you keep it. If you’re really not into sewing and don’t think you ever will be, now is a good time to sell. Since the beginning of sewing history, people only sew for two reasons: 1) they want to 2) they have to The folks that “want to” are the quilters and designers and hobbyists. The ones that “have to”, have an Etsy store, alteration shop, or similar business and that’s how they feed their family and keep the lights on. Either group would be happy to own the best machine ever made by the Singer company. Go online and search: “Singer 401-A for sale”. See what the prices are for a similar one- owner machine and that will be your price to sell. Pack it for shipment like you would an historical Ming dynasty vase. Good luck🍀😎👍🏼

@m.a.c.8366

5 ай бұрын

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 Thanks very much for your quick response and guidance. Best regards.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

5 ай бұрын

@@m.a.c.8366 you’re welcome. 👍🏼😎

That machine is an "early production" model made in 1956. It is surprising that considering all of Singers legal battles with other companies that it was actually made. This machine utilizes patents from Bernina, Vigorelli and Messerschmidt. Brother sewing machines waged a lawsuit against Singer claiming it infringed on their "Pacesetter" machines. Singer had to hold the sales of the machines until June of 1957. The machine here has a # 301 tension assembly, heavily chromed screws, a 301 motor and bakelite ends on the cords. This was just "overbuilt " and had a price tag of $ 349.99 when new… Notice as we approached 1961 ( end of production ) the decals were gone in an attempt to modernize the look. I have # 32 of one million produced. ( The woman who purchased it in 1960 bought it as a used or repossessed machine )...

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

6 ай бұрын

Excellent information. I’m glad you took the time to fill us in on that history of the 401. Singer was always in hot water for some nefarious activities. They were such a powerhouse of cash flow and connections that they escaped unscathed from their legal encounters. Lousy company, awesome machines. Well, at least until the wheels fell off completely in the 70’s. Thanks again. 😎👍🏼

@1953childstar

6 ай бұрын

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 Thank you !!!

Can I still find parts for this machine? Thank you.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

Ай бұрын

Yes. Any part you will need is out there. The best part is, I can’t imagine any part on this machine failing and needing replacement. If you buy one that has a missing part, like a slide plate, needle plate, presser foot, motor, power cord, etc, they’re all available either new or used and they are plentiful. The hardest machine to get a replacement part for is a brand new electronic machine. Quite often, they don’t even make replacement parts for new machines because they know their operational life expectancy is minimal. Get a 401-A or any Slantamatic and you’ll merely be the caretaker to pass it along to the next generational owner. 😎👍🏼

I have a 401 a 1958 that was my grandmother s and I have everything that went with it . The only problem I have is that it just goes up and down slowly and bogs down need help please

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

6 ай бұрын

Whenever a 401 comes out of storage, you have to disengage the hand wheel clutch as though your winding the bobbin, (without engaging the bobbin winder), and run the machine at top speed for about five minutes. That will recondition the brushes and armature in the motor. After that, tighten the clutch knob and sew.

Do you know where i could get a small screw that went missing?

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

Depending on which screw it is, it should be readily available either online or at a sewing machine dealer that repairs machines.

@boxfoxreyes9950

9 ай бұрын

I can not find it for sale. It is the screw for the POSITION BRACKET #507151 for my 401a would you by chance know of a store or repair shop that would have one?

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

9 ай бұрын

@@boxfoxreyes9950 if you’re in north Texas I know where you can find one easily. Have you tried just buying the position bracket. They shouldn’t be very expensive.

Aaaargh I've got the 503a and 403a

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

9 ай бұрын

Two more fantastic machines. Some people prefer them for their simplicity. Great for student teaching.

I have a 403 A, it needs repair though.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

4 ай бұрын

It can’t need much. There’s not much that can go wrong. Maybe it’s rusty or missing key components? Otherwise, no big deal.

@davidanddavidstrading

4 ай бұрын

I dug it out last night after your video.. it turns, looks like it may be ok with timing. The note says it's just missing the plates and the 2 part foot control... I will look these up! @@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

I've found one at a consignment shop for $50. Approximately a two hour drive from my home. I've been told it's in working order (🤷‍♀️) but has no accessories ot manual. A deal? No go without accessories? Thank you for any input you may have.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

5 ай бұрын

If it only needs the accessories, that’s not a deal breaker for me. You can get those from many online sellers.

@simplygigi.

5 ай бұрын

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 thank you!

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

5 ай бұрын

@@simplygigi. you’re welcome. Grab that 401 and have fun with it. If it’s been sitting for a while, disengage the hand wheel and run that motor for about five minutes to reach peak rpm. Be sure to oil it (the machine) appropriately and then get to sewing. Don’t oil the motor, but just about everywhere else needs a drop or two. 😎👍🏼

@simplygigi.

5 ай бұрын

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 I'm planning to pick it up Wed! If it's still available. It's a 2 hr drive from home, bad weather is expected in the next few days so I'm checking back in with the seller on Tuesday to see if it's still available. 🤞 I've asked questions before and am sure I've mentioned before I'm very new to learning about vintage machines. I'm not wanting to become a collector. I want just a couple of machines that suit my needs. I'm am trying my best to be wise in my purchasing choices of . My 1931 is doing right by me so far and I love it, but I'm hoping to find a vintage, domestic workhorse that might handle heavier weight fabrics. Does one exist? Maybe my 1931 can? Like lightweight vinyl or lightweight soft leather/faux leather. Nothing heavy. If you have any suggestions on what I might keep my eyes open for, it would be greatly appreciated. I feel like I'm all over the place and just when I think I'm on the right track, I find out I'm not and my train derailed. 😆 I've got a lot of learning to do.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

5 ай бұрын

@@simplygigi. I’m a big fan of the alloy framed machines like the Kenmore 158 series and the Slantamatic 401-A etc. For true blue heavy duty performance, it’s hard to beat a side load, 15 class, cast iron head machine that’s made in Japan. I review many of them on my channel and they’re usually captioned as real heavy duty etc. They could be Kenmore 148, Nelco, Dressmaker,Janome (New Home), etc. look for the made in Japan and cast iron, side load, 15 class. They are total beasts of machines.

Got one to sell 431g

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

4 ай бұрын

👍😎

They're... OK, I guess. Not my favorite. Certainly not a Kenny 1760.

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

10 ай бұрын

That’s a hard choice for me too. Both great machines. 😎

how does this 401A compare to the 501A "Rocketeer" sewing machine ?

@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

5 ай бұрын

The 401-A and the 500-A are almost identical platforms. Different bobbin winder and slightly different threading procedure. Both are equally awesome. 😎👍🏼

@seymourwrasse3321

5 ай бұрын

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 my mom had one when I was a kid, I got it just for the Nostalgia of it. It was the days of Star Trek and Lost in Space and astronauts going in to space, it mesmerized me looking at this cool space ship mechanical thing. Now all I have to do is learn to sew with it