ScubaK

It really is in great condition. The case is trashed. I tried to sew on it and it picks up the bobbin thread but doesn't make stitches...
Not sure what to trial set the tension dial on. Not sure what needles to buy. I think I have the bobbin in the bobbin case correctly.
I know I have it threaded correctly and the needle from right to left.
Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Kirsten

Rodney

If it picked up the thread it should be making a stitch. What does it look like when you sew?
I would put the tension around 4 to start. Have you checked the bobbin? Is it threaded correctly and how does it feel when you pull the thread out?
It takes regular 15x1 needles, the standard ones you can buy anywhere.
Others with actual featherweight experience will be along.
Rodney

Mrs. SewNSew

Is the little finger in the bobbin area caught correctly in the groove under the plate? Is the needle in flat side to the left? Double check the threading, needle threads right to left.

ScubaK

I am thinking that something is wrong with the tension disks. It goes along and makes 2 stitches, then the tension disks slam together. I am thinking I have it threaded correctly and am pretty sure the bobbin is threaded in the case correctly. However, the bobbin tension might be a bit tight, as it does not move/drop when hung from my hand and shaken. Tomorrow I will take it apart and oil and light clean and see what else.
Can you tell me when to adjust tension? With the needle up or down?
Thanks,
Kirsten

ScubaK

I will be able to post some pics tomorrow as well, just have to get on with the quilts on frame and design wall.
K

Rodney

Generally Singers need to have the presser foot down to adjust the tension.
Rodney

masufa

make sure the needle it threaded in the correct direction

coopah

Mine did that, too, when my dad bought it for me at a flea market a long, long time ago. It is fixable, but we took it to a sewing machine repair store as we didn't have a clue about fixing it. You'll get good advice from this group. Let us know what you figure out.

Mrs. SewNSew

I am not sure from your description that it is the tension but if you think it is you will want to be sure it is clean and put together correctly. This link http://www.singer-featherweight.com/...Service15.html will start you out in how to remove the tension parts for cleaning and part 16 shows them in detail with info on how to put it back together. If you are not comfortable taking the tension apart you could try running a piece of string through the disks for cleaning between them.

ScubaK

Thanks for all the replies.
So, to adjust the tension, the presser foot must be in the DOWN position?
Thanks,
K