Sir, I can't thank you enough for this explanation. I was having trouble with my singer 477, it was a gift from my grand mother so I was afraid I couldn't use it anymore but I was able to fix it by myself just with this video. Thank you!
Puzzling! The Singer 522 Instruction Manual shows it can be used to sew twin needles. It needs three tension discs to separate the threads for proper tension.
@@andytubesewing1953 Thank you for letting me know it needs that extra tension disc. The machine was given to me so may be worth getting the missing parts. 😊
I've been watching your videos for over a month now,you will never know how grateful I am,not just for the information but for your cadence. Not only are you very informative but you remind me so much of my Dad and the way you both go into extreme detail. Once its seen,heard and explained in such detail it's hard to forget......... Thank you Andy!!!!!
Unlike many DIY how-to videos posted online, yours are clearly explained and well filmed in just the right amount of detail. Thanks, Andy, for helping me use and understand my machine.
A MILLION THANKS ANDY!! The entire tension mechanism on my Singer 533 popped out while I was sewing and I couldn’t figure out why it kept doing that. Your breakdown of the different parts helped me diagnose a loose set screw for the tension stud and once I reassembled everything, it worked perfectly. I say this without exaggeration or hyperbole, this is the most useful RUclips video I’ve ever watched. Thanks again!
THANK YOU SO MUCH! I was on the verge of pulling my hair out. watching video after video of tutorials on how to fix my tension, "professionals" that know so much about my beloved 403. Hours of researching! ALL crap! YOU, YOU helped me fix my 403, THANK YOU!
Happy you found the video. A good machine is worth the effort. A couple of playlists with adjustments for your model: ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKJS_4FKPb4bgAbHtYWnexvy ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKIv5oChf24tvhU_bc45eVYK Thanks for saving that machine.
My wife asked me to service a older Singer 411 ( made in Germany) cabinet machine that had not been used in 20 plus years - I wish I had have found this channel months ago - on a personal note I started in the Motor Trade in the late '60's and left the bench in the late '90's; this experts language and descriptions are brilliant, brief, and comprehensive. I have subscribed (on her behalf) and will view other videos as I time permits ( I have my own projects); - explaining technologies is not easy - but this Craftsman's plain speaking is a true standard.
Thank you very much, sir. With your background & experience, the comment you made was very meaningful to me. Kind of you to do that, and please do return when you have time. BTW, you can download a free copy of the original instruction manual here if needed: ismacs.net/singer_sewing_machine_company/manuals/singer-411g-ib-sewing-machine-manual.pdf Take care.
You are welcome, and I'm glad it helped save your machine. Chances are it's better than many modern ones anyway. Thank you for taking the time to comment. Happy Sewing.
I had to remove the tension unit of my 338. The +|- indicator was broke. Luckily i was able to find another. I would not have been able to do this with out you. Thank you so much and Merry Christmas.
My ears might be bleeding and my head spins - but this is just such important info to share with the stitching community. Thank you so much for this!💕🧵And you featured one of my favorite songs - a clever tie-in to the subject matter…”Tighten Up” by Archie Bell and the Drells!!
I appreciate your nice comment wow thank you very much and I especially enjoyed that you noticed the music I always tried to have good relatable music for the bumper into the video so it's nice when somebody comments about it 😊🌹
Thank You Andy! Your Tension assembly Breakdown on that machine (that's darn close to my Late Grandmother's *Singer* *Zig* *Zag* *413* Table Model) was precise and thorough! Been slowly fixin' up my sewing unit to hand off to one of my Nieces. Sewing Machines can last Generations inside of a loving productive Family. Will study your other videos, while looking for a way to replace the engine mount assembly on an early '70's Blue/White *Elna* *SU* .
Amazing video. I should have disassembled and reassembled my wife's sewing machine tension assembly before I ordered a replacement as her repair shop told her she needed. He said the assembly was missing a part and therefore wouldn't keep the correct tension on the thread. As it turns out, the repair shop disassembled the assembly to clean it and put it back together in an incorrect order which is why it wasn't keeping the correct tension. Thank you very much for your thorough and accurate instruction video.
Thanks for the compliment. I appreciate you watching my channel and I hear from hundreds of viewers about repair shops that just aren't very good with vintage machines and that's one of the reasons I go into such detail I may have more videos on your particular singer model. Do you just go to my homepage? I list playlist by model number. Thanks so much for watching my channel and keeping your machine and service
Followed your instructions for my mums old machine circa 1974 (somebody had messed it all up at some point in history), Just put it all back together as your instructions and its working perfectly, whenever i think of my mum i see her at the table sewing with this machine in front of her ! Tremendous sentimental value. Thankyou so much with a cherry on top !
Nicely done, Jason. If only the machine could talk; I'll bet it misses your mum too! Thank you for fixing the machine and respecting it and your mum. You did a wonderful thing there. Take Care.
OMG! Thank you!! I could NOT have done it without this video. My "new" '63 Singer 403 had 60 years of air dirt & rust in the tension unit. After oiling and greasing the machine, the thread kept snapping!! I decided to give the tension spring a whirl...well, It was slog...but, with your instructions and finally finding a screw driver for that really really tiny tiny screw. I finally got it cleaned and put back together. For me, it WAS rock science...every piece had to be just so. It works now! Think I'll take the "58 down and do her, too. I never had her maintained, sewed everything for 60+ years...oiled and greased her regularly...but the tension thingie? never. BTW, I used an ice cube tray to put the pieces in order which helped me keep my sanity. I had to use WD40...it did clean and remove most of the rust.
Very welcome, Judy. Yes, I've heard of ice cube trays and egg cartons being used and it's all good. Ha, ha, yes the tiny screw! Did you know the Model 403A is my favorite Heavy Duty Singer ZZ model? We love it for sure, and I have a 27-video playlist for working on that model: ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKKyqvdDRwS-9MfLuwSNJTcg I named her Regina b/c she is the "Queen of ZigZag Machines" IMO. I enjoyed your comment very much, thank you.
@@andytubesewing1953 That tiny screw! I was terrified that it would drop down and NEVER be found. It is smaller than half a grain of rice: uncooked. Very difficult for 83 yr old fingers to work into the hole. A magnetized screw driver would have helped, but the only thing I could find was the screw driver at the end of the nail file on a Swiss Army Knife.
@@andytubesewing1953 Thank you for the 27 video playlist! You are my new best friend! I love my sewing machines. I expect to "take them with me" when I go. That's a joke. I have thought about gifting the old one but I would have to do a "home study" to make sure it was going to someone who would take very good care it it. Like an adoption or a pet placement. ...I'm that nuts.
@@judydyer Not nuts at all. You've spent a lot of time with them and it sounds like they have served you well. Think how many of the old ones have been "lost" forever. It's a good thing to want to protect them.
No, thank you! Thank you for rescuing that marvelous machine and not giving up on it. I'm glad the video helped. As is often the case with yard sale machines they can have some issues. I have a 30+ video series of a step-by-step restoration for model 337; ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKJxbOOMKQPvmeTRqi0dhGa5 If you find a few things wrong or want to replace worn parts like a motor belt, or just give it a good cleaning and oiling, these videos can help. The original Instruction Manual SInger made for the 337 has 38 pages of very useful info about using the machine and basic sewing instructions and so forth and is still available for free download from SInger; www.singer.com/search/support?title=337 Besides being a very beautiful machine, it is quite strong and versatile and easily sews fabric from light chiffon to denim, duck cloth, canvas, and even upholstery! I hope you enjoy it very much and thank you for leaving such a nice comment. Happy sewing.✨
Can't say it enough, you are so good at demonstrating what you are doing! I just walked thru this on my 338, got the tension just right! Thank You so much for sharing your skills/ talent, time here, helping us to get it done! lis
Your kind comment made my day. Thank you. 🙏 It is incredibly rewarding to know my time & efforts are appreciated and helpful. Thanks for keeping your machine in top working condition. Take care.
Thank you so much for this! I was having so much trouble with my 338, and resetting the tension sorted it all out. How wonderful to be able to take care of my machine myself!
Yes Thank You, Soo Much. Couldn't find anything on how to put mine back together. You explained Very thoroughly but yet very easy to understand and follow. Not a lot of unnecessary chit chat! Thanks Again!!
So happy to hear this; thank you. Model 338 is the machine my daughter asked me to restore for her and she loves it. I only made 20 videos of it, but the Playlist is here if you have not seen it; ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKK4y8dsq3oMKJFTGsoNJWmi Good luck, and take care.
Thank you. The parts accidentally came apart as I accidentally loosen it too much and the spring sent everything flying. Not sure how to reassemble it back but was lucky to come across your video. Thank you again.
So happy to have found this video. Had taken my Singer 513 to a "professional" to fix the tension adjustment. Was still having problems, so decided to give it a go myself. Following your well done video allowed me to fix my tension problem AND learn about my machine. Definitely will be watching more of your videos in the future.
You found a good video and I'm glad you did. Who's the professional now? Nicely done. Other 513 videos, including where to oil & grease, ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKLELksv_-MWE7tiAuzOgQj0 FREE copy fo the Instruction Manual for your marvelous machine: www.singer.com/search/support?title=513 Happy sewing. ✨
had to watch your video again after cleaning a singer 367 tension. slightly different unit but your video helped me. thanks again hope you are well..wx 15c going colder on the river Mersey..
I'm glad the video was useful, thank you. 15c? Brrr... If I'm lucky I may see that as early as November, hehe. I was only in London for 3 days but the things I enjoyed the most were the people's accents, the taxis and their drivers, and the morning fog. I know! but fog is rare here in the desert.
Best video on Singer tensioner , I was struggling with my stylist for a while , After watching this video I finally have the tension set right .. Thanks
Wow! Andy - thank you so very very much for this clear and easy to follow video - which gave me the confidence to try this myself with my sewing machine tension! I followed every single step of this for my Singer 507 (Year 1975) and this worked an absolute treat! I have subscribed and will now enjoy watching many of your other videos. Thank you once again. I deeply appreciate this.
I'm glad you worked on your own machine. It's very rewarding, isn't it? I appreciate you watching my channel and you're very kind comment. Hope to hear from you again in the future
@@andytubesewing1953 Very rewarding - yes. Thank you again for giving me the opportunity to do this successfully! Without your video I could not/would not have attempted it!
We've all been there! I'm glad you found the video helpful. I used this style of tension unit b/c it is one of the most common on Singer models. Thanks for commenting and happy sewing.
Hello Andy, remember my machine was hesitating to start sewing... I noticed this morning that the machine was sewing well without a thread... well, the problem was my tension disks, it was super thight (even at 2)... so I disassembled it again and my machine is working fine now! yeah!
Fantastic! Wow, that must have really been tight! I'm so happy you found the cause and thanks for sharing it. Another possibility to add to the list. I would not have thought of that cause.
@@andytubesewing1953 Maybe I am wrong too but for now, it seems to be much better but that leads me too... OK but if it get stuck because of the tension, maybe my motor is not that good hehe I saw an other 401A to sell, I think I'm gonna buy it and see if it goes better, and keep it for parts or whatever cause I really like this machine.
@@Cass_772 well I can't fault your reasoning on that. I have a spare motor that I cleaned up and tested for each of my wife's sewing machine. I also bought a spare hook because nobody makes those anymore. They last a long time but what if the hook point snaps off or something like that? I am so happy that you love the machine and that you are getting it back in service. I guess I said that before. Sorry but I am happy for you
I'm glad the video helped. Btw, I do have many videos for model 301A including tension videos, There are two playlists. The first is "Coco Goes to the Spa" with 19 videos: ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKLZyGebzS_oISgesXNyREyI The 2nd Playlist is " Remove Replace Adjust Parts on a Singer Model 301A" with 17 more videos: ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKI_6fbu3itbd1v4z3uQvvkO These videos cover almost every part on model 301A. Thanks for watching my channel, and I appreciate your nice comment.
I accidentally left my thread on my tension disc when I threaded my bobbin. My tensioner was a mess. Thank you for the video! I was able to disassemble, reassemble, and correctly set the tension on my machine without needing to take it to the repair shop!!
This video was very informative as usual. I want to watch your other videos about tension as well. My recent 401A purchase was very dusty and had a lot of lint in the bobbin area. The tension discs probably need a good cleaning as well especially since I have to set the dial to 6/7 to make the stitches to look decent, but not as good as I think they should be. I always get nervous about disassembling parts, but after watching your video, I think I’ll give it a try. Thank you!
Thank you Shelly. A lot of Lent in the bobbin area can relate to their also being a lot of Lent in the tension unit. If it gets impacted in the check spring or the actual tension spring and the disc, it can prevent proper tension. Thus, you have to add more and more so a nice cleaning can really make a difference. Best of luck and thanks for the nice comment
I'm glad you found the video, Matthew. Lucky it was done with a model 413, right? A nice machine and very capable until the plastic gear on the vertical shaft breaks apart. It seems like a matter of time and usage before they go out. I had so many inquiries about that gear that I made a video for replacement. Maybe your machine already had the gear replaced but if not keep this video in mind for replacing the gear; ruclips.net/video/M3bFtlV1Y6s/видео.html Thanks for taking the time to comment and take care.
Thank you for the post. Slow and methodical with a good explanation of what you are doing. My checkspring is disengaged. I am going to try to fix my White 221 with your help.
Thanks for commenting. I may have some better videos for the type of tension assembly on your featherweight. It should be the same style as the SInger Model 301A. Where the little chrome adjusting knob in this video uses a set screw, the 301A & 221 knob has a pin on the back that sits into small holes in the numbered dial. I covered all the tension assembly work in my Coco 301A series if you'd care to take a look. DIsmantle Video: ruclips.net/video/c6usEx1vUKY/видео.html Installation Video: ruclips.net/video/VPzpLIAvz8Y/видео.html and finally how to set the Stroke & Tension of the check spring: ruclips.net/video/lOLKpvonnPE/видео.html Best of luck with it and thanks for watching my channel.
So sorry, MissMarta. I only work on vintage Singer machines. The only thing I know about the Janome models is they are high quality, so congrats on having one. Good luck, and thanks for watching my channel.
I appreciate your response ❤ I will be back, I have 3 beautiful Great-Grandma hand-me-down vintage Singers. One, a treadle! I'll holler when I get to one of those projects. Blessings!
By the way, I was working on my Janome when I watched this video of yours, and the tension unit in mine is different, so I watched and rewatched what you were doing and listened to what you had to say, and because you are so thorough, I was able to do the repair and put it back together properly. And it works like a dream. Thought I should add that.
@@missmartamc thanks for letting me know. I get complaints. My videos are too long but my goal is to explain how the parts work and how they all work together. And I'm glad you took the time to listen and not just watch and that it was worth it for you since you got it fixed. Thanks again for letting me know. That's kind of you.
Thank you Andy Tube. I was going to give up on my 1960s 670g until I found your video. Only difference was the stop pin hangs down, but I managed to suss it out. Julie D
That's an unusual position for the pin, but if it works then all is well. I've never seen a 670g in person so I downloaded the manual from Singer. What a versatile machine! I'm glad you were able to save it. Thanks for that, and for commenting on my channel. Take Care.
I'm very happy to hear that. Christina, it's always rewarding when somebody says my video help them fix their machine and thanks for keeping your machine and service
Andy your videos are excellent! I wonder how many sewing machines have been saved from the landfill based on the great repair instructions you provide. You recently helped us replace the top gear on a Singer 457 and with this video we returned a Singer 338 to good working condition (our tension woes are now gone). Thank you for all your time and effort!
Thank you very much. Yes, viewers like you have saved many machines. Hundreds maybe. With 5 million views of the videos maybe even thousands of machines. It's incredible to think about. I appreciate the kind comment and your saving those machines. They are worthy of it, and it is gratifying to get them working again. Take care and come back again.
Merci beaucoup, Marie. Je suis honoré que l'un des premiers commentaires que vous ayez fait sur votre nouveau compte concerne cette vidéo. Je suis heureux que vous ayez trouvé ma vidéo et qu'elle vous ait aidé. Bonne couture !
Great video Andy! I just did this to my 401 and readjusted the tension several times. Might have to change it again but I can’t try it out because I don’t like sewing in thunderstorms and there’s one blowing over now. The scariest part of the whole process is trying to get that teeny tiny retaining screw in without losing it. I dropped it a few times and found it luckily but it panicked me a little. LOL!
Yes, be safe! Oh man, when that tiny screw drops it's like your heart stops as you try to see/listen where it went. Done that, believe me. Thanks for watching.
Sure, you are very welcome. I make videos like this exactly for folks like you who are perfectly willing to work on their machines and just need a little bit more info and guidance. Thanks for being persistent until you found a solution. Happy sewing.
Hi Andy!! I just wanted to let you know, ONE: I figured out the discs myself. TWO: Had I watched your very first video on "A Broken Tension Unit....What Now?" (Stella) the 237 (Silly Me, Lol), I wouldn't have had to figure it out myself....Because you showed exactly how the (Saucers,teehee) tension discs go together!!!! I ALSO have to let you know, how HAPPY I AM for going back & WATCHING the first video!!! You have ANSWERED quite a FEW questions I would've had for you later on. Believe it or Not, I am still working on my Singer Sonata 6606. Plus I have MY other Singer 1120, ALSO on my kitchen table, that I first started to work on (tension issues too, I think) the hand wheel is VERY hard to turn manually, yet it still sews. Only problem is, stitches don't look quite right. So ONCE AGAIN, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!! Sincerely & Oh, SO Very Grateful that I stumbled upon YOU!! You're the Best, Andy Tube! Be talking to you soon.For, I also HAVE a 401A Slant-O-Matic!!!! That Story is for another DAY! LOL :) :)
You are one busy mechanic lady. It sounds like you are having a good time there, and thank you for saving and fixing up those machines. When you're ready for your 401A, check out my playlist page for the series on models 401, 403a, 404 & 503a. Lots of good info for working on the parts of a 401A. ruclips.net/channel/UCUSPDsHaFtRoz1VA2U1xJ4wplaylists?view_as=public I have over 500 videos so you will see some other Singer Models you may be interested in as time goes by. Take care.
@@andytubesewing1953 Hi Andy!! Not sure how much of a mechanic I am!! Thanks to You and (my fav's) your Video tutorials I have learned so much!! Soon I will be known as the "Mechanic Lady"!! Love that reply, thank you!! Maybe, the "Busy Mechanic Lady", yes, much better!! LOL!! NOW, here's the funny thing....Yest. I was just putting all the nice clean parts (except the tension disc, springs etc) back on (yep) my 6606. Had just oiled her too & my hand was getting tired of turning the hand wheel manually. So decided to run her for a little bit, to get the oil all around & good & ready. TOTALLY forgot that the motor was running slow, ran her for awhile anyway. Had to take a BREAK!! Came back to my PC, & "Low & Behold", WHO & WHAT do I see???? My FAV' MAN, You Andy!!! "How to Speed Up your Motor in 5 minutes for $10" !!! Now, all I've got to do is Order me one of those stones!!! Thanks Again ANDY!! Can't WAIT to get busy on My 401A!! You know I'll be following right along w/YOU!! :) :) :)
@@deniselane4160 I can see your videos now "Tuning up a Model 6606, by "The Busy Mechanic Lady". It sounds like your machine is coming along well and nicely done. I think you'd be happy with the performance increase after using the brush seater stone. I just received a comment on that video that it may be a better idea to clean the parts off with alcohol than the spray electronic cleaner, FYI. Good to hear from you. Good Luck.
Hoping a good cleaning will help my machine out 🥲No matter what I have the tension at, the disks trap the thread and snap it. Doesn't seem like any debris is in there, so I'm going to actually wash the parts like you said. Also, Krud Kutter is amazing! Used it as a maid- it's wonderful for soap scum in the tub 😁
I am so happy I found this video - slow going but so thorough and I think I have finally “fixed” my 6212C based on this video. Slightly different indicator and adjustment nut, but otherwise absolutely able to follow and put it back it back together again! So far (is there an emoji for crossing the fingers?) sample stitches look good 😮 now onto a project😅
I'm glad you found the video too and happy that it seems to be working for you. 🤞Happy sewing! By the way many people watch my video set one and a half speed. I go slow because about half of my viewers don't speak English as a first language and I want them to follow along. Take care and thanks for the nice comment
Aaarrrggghhh. I knew I was missing something so simple -- check spring was positioned incorrectly. Thanks for being my Go To source for easy fixes when nothing's working right. Saved my sanity -- what there is left of it -- again.
This video finally showed how to get the tension wheels working, now I have the issue where the bottom loops like crazy, and the top is snapping! If I try tightening the wheels the thread just snaps every time
can you tell me what model of Singer machine you are working on, please? A few possibilities for bottom loops. Often signifies lack of tension on needle thread, or very high tension on bobbin case (more rare). Can also be incorrect threading path, takeup lever problem, and so forth. Did this happen before you worked on the tension?
Andy, thank you so much! I’m restoring a Featherweight 221 and working on the original thread tension unit. However, the threaded stud probably needs to be replaced and the screw on the other side cannot be removed. Your videos have guided me through a lot all of the restoration and I am a subscriber. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated! Thanks, Larry White, Tallahassee, Fl
Stuck screws are a pain for sure. I've had some luck with soaking them overnight with a penetrating oil, like WD40. Also heating them with a hair dryer. On larger ones, I have used a "tap-n-turn" method of hitting the screwdriver sharply with a small hammer while trying to turn it. I don't think I've done that on a small set screw. Having a good-fitting hollow-ground screwdriver with flat sides is a must to help prevent stripping half of the head off. Did you know I have a playlist for model 221? ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKIA1OPw0k6QOSTE-wAUZ4kp One of those videos is about tension units ruclips.net/video/enSTxxzqy4s/видео.html: This family seems to know more than anyone about the featherweights. They have helped me a couple of times through email questions. You can reach out to them if you like. They are really nice folks. singer-featherweight.com/ Good luck.
Thanks so much for the video. While not exactly the same as my Kenmore it definitely explains a lot. Hopefully I can clean and set mine now rather than paying for a new assembly. Which is what I was about to do because I was unsure of how it went together or worked. Cheers
I'm sure you can do it. the basic principles of the tension unit are the same no matter the brand so if the parts are similar I'll bet you can clean it and adjusted. I sure hope so and thank you so much for taking the time to leave a comment good luck
Thank you so mutch Andy, a very fine tutorial for zero tension ! very pragmatic ! the only setting that i want and never find on manual Good job ! PS : i have bougth an Handheld letter scale (like you), but i really prefer this method !
You are welcome! I'm glad you found the video. Pragmatic says it all, right? Nicely done. Don't be a stranger. 500+ more videos on my playlist page 😀 ruclips.net/channel/UCUSPDsHaFtRoz1VA2U1xJ4wplaylists?view_as=public
Hi Andy Tube, I must say, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!! I've done the SAME thing as some of the comments had replied; LOOKING everywhere (on the Web, RUclips etc.) on how to fix the tension on my Singer(Sonata) 6606....The tension knob on it is ALMOST the same as in your Video!! I created a NEW playlist with ONLY YOU as my Created TITLE!!! You are so very patient, sweet & You explain EVERY single detail that I actually comprehend!!! I am Ecstatic that I Found YOU!! I wish you were my neighbor! teehee!! I could watch & Listen to You ALL DAY Long!!! I DO Have ONE question though. When I took apart the tension disc's (yes, I also have 3 discs) I didn't pay attention to how they came off....Plus mine has the middle one as (just) a FLAT disc. Thee other two have that concave on the one side & convex (like a small doughnut) on the opposite side. Sorry, idk how to describe them!!! I only know the flat disc goes in the middle. My question (FINALLY!!!) which way do thee other two go? In your: (this) video you have all 3 discs w/the Convex sides on top of each other. Would mine go the same way? Sincerely & Thanks so Much, Denise Lane :)
WOW! I'm honored. Tell your friends who are stuck at home b/c of this coronavirus. I have 500+ videos! You have the correct idea. The donuts need to face the center disc so they can squeeze the thread to put tension on it. So convex towards the middle disc? thanks so much for watching my channel. take care.
@@andytubesewing1953 Hello Again Andy! I will most certainly be telling my Friends about You!! You have saved me from soooo many questions!! Plus you've taught me so much already!! Tho, I do need to come back to my PC & re-watch Your Tutorials to make sure I AM doing it right!! LOL! BTW, I haven't been back to my machine yet today. (I was up for 2 days straight, w/no sleep)Not only bcuz, I was working on my 6606 but, also bcuz I was printing some of the pages of a MANUAL I found, (Thanks to YOU once again...for the link) for my 6606. That was ALL b4 I FORGOT to let you know, I hadn't taken the bottom cover off (my 6606)yet to check my motor!!! (my comment on previous 'REPLY' Today)!! I'll get back w/you, once I've taken the bottom cover off. Even if its not a PA, I know I'll be keeping YOUR INFO. w/my ANDY TUBE Playlist!!! Besides, I still have my 401A still to work on!! Stay Healthy Andy!! Sincerely, ("Busy Mechanic Lady"), I LOVE That so much!! Thanks! Denise Lane. P.S. I've never had a SPECIFIC username!! So, ONLY when I think I'm pretty good at it, I'll USE it!! Be talkin' to ya Soon!!
Thank you. I've never seen a 437 here in the US but was able to download a free copy of the Instruction Manual from Singer www.singer.com/search/support?title=437 It looks like the same tension assembly and I know you can clean and adjust it. I appreciate your taking the time to leave a comment. Good Luck and Take Care.
Thank you Andy!!! I was going crazy trying to find an example of a tension assembly with 3 tension discs. I've been sewing for about a year now on a Singer Simple 3232 and every time I topstitch with a twin needle, it pops a bunch of stitches or the needle breaks. The only solution I could find is to make sure the threads are separated as they run through the tension disc so they don't tangle, but I couldn't see how that's possible on my machine--it definitely only has the 2 discs and no way of separating the threads. Thank you for helping me solve this mystery! I'm disappointed though, because I definitely prefer the look of topstitching with the twin needle for hemlines and the like. Any advice on whether there's still a way to use a twin needle on my machine?
I certainly understand the desire to have the twin needle stitching; it's beautiful. I could not find any parts documents for the model you mention to see what the tension discs looked like. Many are concave/convex shaped with the two convex sides facing together to put the tension on the thread. It has been a number of years, but I came across a machine with the two tension disc system that was sewing twin needle on dress shirts. (In the Philippines) I asked the fellow how he got the machine to use twin needles. He told me he added a thin flat polished steel disc between the two existing discs. He then had to make a new tension releasing pin that was a tiny bit longer to compensate for the thickness of the new disc, (he said that took a while and lots of trial and error to get it just right). I have made new tension releasing pins from a finishing nail, so I understood what he was saying. He was lucky that the tension stud was long enough to add the thin disc. He said the disc was a washer that he drilled a larger hole in to fit on the stud, then he polished it with fine sandpaper for smoothness. When I commented that he went to a lot of work, he said "yeah, I did, but look at that double-stitched seam" 😀 Again, I have no idea about your particular tension assembly, but there's an idea for you to think about.
@@andytubesewing1953 Haha, I totally get this guy--"look at that double-stitched seam" indeed! I think for me, it's not going to be worth going to all the effort to DIY something that complex--I'd be more likely to break the whole assembly than anything else. I also anticipate that as my sewing skills improve, I'll upgrade my machine to something with more versatility and add "3-plated tension assembly" to my must-have list. In the meantime, I can make do with finding a different stitch for my hems, but I'm at least glad to add a valuable piece of knowledge to my "sewing theory" repertoire. Thanks again Andy! without videos like this, I wouldn't have been able to learn a fraction of what I know now about sewing!
@@jackiehannaford Good luck going forward then. BTW, many of the vintage Singer models can double-needle or twin-needle sew. Here is my main Playlist page wh=ere I have videos organized by model number. Often a vintage machine can be found for a reasonable price. Maybe you'll see a model that catches your eye. Happy sewing then.
Hi Andy 👋 let me start by saying thank you for taking your time to explain the sewing mechanisms in detail. But the 360 singer model it doesn't have the screw on the tensioner. Please let us know how to remove it.
The thumb nut or grip on the front just pulls straight off, like right at you 👀 It has an adaptor that screws on, but no flange on the adaptor. The 3 tension discs are different on your model. I think the center one is flat. The two on the outsides go on with the raised portion facing the flat center disc. Unusual. I'd really suggest buying the Service Manual for it that has the step-by-step remove & replace directions. store.tandtrepair.com/240-248sm.html It's $10.50 but Terry will discount it by 20% if you use my coupon code of andy-h-yt before the end of 2021. That makes it $8.40 and instant download. If you are not into working on it and are not in a hurry you can buy a new one from China for $7 from many sellers, or pay more for a shipper in the USA. www.ebay.com/itm/Tension-422403-457-For-Singer-242-247-252-360-368-400-403-404-6105-6212-7110/143757742753?hash=item2178a112a1:g:9PkAAOSw6Khfb~Ip IMO, vintage parts are better made and last longer so I try to clean and adjust before replacing. Good luck.
Hey Andy, my mom has a Singer 6105 sewing machine and for decades it has served us well, but one fateful eve my mom took it to a repair shop for some simple maintenancing, ever since then the machine has not sewed right. The tension assembly is quite loose and setting the tension with the knob no longer has an affect. Ive been trying to remove the knob but there is no flange or set screw to start with, it is simply the numbered indicator knob, then the +/- ring and finally the metal assembly you run the thread through. Other than the knob being plastic only the tension assemblies on both yours and our machine looks the same.
Hey Im just commenting further to update you and let you know I found the set screw I needed within the machine and got the tension assembly taken apart. Dont know how I didnt spot it sooner but on closer inspection I found there was a component missing that is part of the tension assembly and made an order for a replacement ASAP. My mom couldnt be happier, thank you! Finding your videos was a welcome reward as well. I appreciate all the work you do to help people like me! Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
I see you found a solution. Congrats. For others who read the comment with this type of plastic "tension Indicator" knob you just pull it straight off of the unit. Underneath is a "tension indicator adaptor" that it pushes onto. That adaptor is like the flange adaptor in this video. So, the plastic numbered knob is held on by friction.
@@Fangman123789 (for other viewers reading this comment) It sounds like you found the internal set screw that holds the tension stud onto the machine. Loosening that set screw allows the stud with all the attached parts to be removed as a unit from the machine. I'm glad you found a solution and thanks for the followup comment.
Thank you Andy for making a video on the tension adjustment knob. It worked for me. I had thread bunching up like it was eating up all my bobbin thread. I have another question. The pedal is either a very very fast or i have to pump it slowly. Any way to adjust that?
I have a couple of playlists for cleaning and adjusting foot controllers, a button style & a clamshell style. You don't mention the type of foot controller you have. Here are the links to the playlists if you want to check them out. ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKL6ePPxLpmnWSzTyxPKTb71 ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKItPLWcK24FBoMdHK8vTXNi I'm glad the tension video helped, and good luck.
Hi Andy, thanks for the great videos. I have a Singer 447 that I am trying to get working. I have followed your video to refurbish the tension unit. Everything is fine until I try to set the tension. When I put the presser foot down nothing happens to the tension. Have I done something wrong?
With the foot down tension should be applied to the tension discs. When the foot is raised the tension release pin should be pushing the discs away from the spring to remove tension on the thread. You should easily see the indicator dial (the - | +) and the tension discs move when lifting the foot. If that is not happening, the short x-bar in the center of the indicator dial could be missing or cracked and the pin cannot move it. The tension releasing pin could be missing. When you lift the presser bar lever it moves a Tension Release Lever in the nose of the machine against the inside end of the Tension Release Pin. If that lever is bent and cannot contact the pin, then the pin won't push against the indicator dial and release the tension on the discs. Those are the most common reasons. Here is another tension video that talks more about the tension release pin: ruclips.net/video/JqauIOWs9CI/видео.html Here is a video about making a new tension release pin from a nail: ruclips.net/video/M1kXDd5GLEE/видео.html Here is a video about replacing a damaged Tension Releasing Lever: ruclips.net/video/tw-Y3V_LrnA/видео.html Here is a video about a broken x-bar on an INdicator dial/flange. So people can replace the x-bar with a wire/toothpick/etc but I buy a new one if available: ruclips.net/video/-TmDis0pcmU/видео.html
I could have saved myself so much stress with my 522(which also has the same unit) last night if I had only noticed that the tensioner is automatically released by the foot. That explains the rod in the middle of the split screw!
Yes a little hidden tension releasing pin activated by a lever when you raise the pressure bar I'm glad you found it now and I'm glad you found the video I enjoyed your comment thank you very much
Andy, I have enjoyed watching your series and have learned a lot about sewing machine. I hope you can help me with my present problem. My tension unit is different from all the ones I have seen on your series. There is no set screw in the knob. It looks like it was press on and I can't find a way to remove it without damaging it. Your help would be appreciated.
Hi, Albert. I've never worked on the 240 series of Singer machines. I do have the parts manual for them and it has a blow-out picture of the tension parts. To me, it looks like there is a compression band inside the plastic numerated dial that slips onto a knurled knob to hold the parts on. I think you can pull the knob straight off the rest of the unit. You can buy a service manual for them for $9 at this link: manualsoncd.com/product/singer-240-series-sewing-machine-service-manual/ You just download a PDF after paying. As a matter of fact, in the listing for the manual, they show some pictures, and one of them is the blow-out diagram I mentioned. You can see what I mean. IMO, $9 for the manual is reasonable and I own the service manuals for most of my machines as they are full of adjustment, repair, and remove/replace information. Thanks for watching my channel, and good luck.
@@andytubesewing1953 Thanks for the response. I came to the same conclusions. I'll spray some WD-40 in there and hope that that will free the knob and I'll clean later with alcohol. The knob has been there for 40+ years. Thanks again. Albert
Hi Andy. I used your video for tensioning before and found it really helpful. I seem to have problems again even after rebuilding the tensioner. I can’t seem to get enough tension on the machine, the bottom thread is always loose (so top thread not tight enough?). I don’t know if I need new parts? Everything seems to be really tight in the tensioner and the uptake spring isn’t moving. I have fiddled loads and no progress. I wondered if you had any advice? Thanks in advance. Glenn
What is the Make and Model of the machine, please? Were you able to do a normal Zero Out Setting? For needle thread tension two of the discs have to squeeze the thread. Usually, the tension spring (beehive spring) is what squeezes the discs together when the presser bar lever is down. If you do not have tension then what is blocking or preventing the spring from pushing the discs together? The spring first pushes on the indicator dial ( dial with the - | + on it) if the slot of the Tension Stud is damaged, like bent or squeezed together a little, the spring can't push the indicator dial into the discs to squeeze the thread. I assume you removed all the thread and reran the thread from spool to needle.
Thanks for the quick reply. The model is a singer 338. The take up spring just does not spring! I followed everything in your video. I think somehow the spring is damaged. The centre of the small circle does not line up with the centre of the big circle, so when I put it on the pin it’s angled down. I made my profile picture a photo of the spring, to help explain, but it may be too small. Do you have any other ideas or also think this is the issue? I wonder how I caused this to happen? It was working fine before. If that is the problem, would you have any suggestions of where best to pick one up? I’m in Canada. And your videos are so helpful, you explain things amazingly well and clearly! Thank you so much!
@@glennhaines6162 Interesting that it worked fine before. So, what went wrong? Change your profile picture back. Take a look at this old video of mine and see if that helps. ruclips.net/video/JqauIOWs9CI/видео.html If it does not help then just email me at andytube53@gmail.com as resolving this is not a good use of the comment section. You can include any pictures and/or videos you like and maybe explain what you mean by your small circle/big circle statement. BTW, the last time I encountered this the small loop on the spring that is put on the stud last had one edge of the loop INSIDE the slot of the stud... oops! Good luck, Glenn.
Andy, I've got a Singer clone, Japanese made, from the 60s. I just received a new pick up spring, and a new beehive spring. I don't have the fancy thread guard, and a couple other handy pieces that come in this assembly. Is it possible to get a little more info from you?
I've never worked on a singer clone but if you can tell me which Singer Model Number your machines is a copy of I may have a tension video for that. As far as parts go I do not have them or sell them. I have read that many of the Japanese clones were so exact that the original Singer parts work well on them. I buy parts online for eBay mostly, and thriftyfarmgirl.com Thanks for watching my channel.
Thanks for the great instructions, Andy. The tensioner on my 413 works, but doesn't disengage when the presser foot is lifted. I noticed that the "bar" of the plastic +/- indicator that fits in the stud slot is broken off. Could that be the cause? I looks to me like that rod pushes against it to realease pressure on the discs; I don't see anything else in there for it to push against. Is that correct?
You understand correctly. The Tension Releasing Pin is pushed against the bar of the indicator dial which pushes back the Tension Spring releasing pressure on the Tension Discs. A common problem after Singer changed to plastic dials from metal. Some viewers have glued a new plastic. metal, or wood bar back into place. That works but usually requires shortening the Tension Pin. Other viewers don't want to bother and just replace the whole tension assembly with one that will work on their model www.singeronline.com/teas4.html
@@andytubesewing1953 Thank you for confirming. What a cheesy arrangement! I think I'll try repairing it before replacing. I assume that, if needed, I can pull the pin out the front with a magnet? Plastic (this, and the vertical drive gear) is certainly the nemesis of this machine... it seems pretty solid otherwise.
@@JohnBau Yes, other than those two it is a very solid machine. It's very versatile. A magnet might work on the pen since the pin is steel. Sometimes the dust on it will keep it from sliding out. You can also just tilt the machine forward and tap on the back of the arm and you can even push the pin out from the back side because there's a hole in the back of the stud One viewer I know had a little bit of epoxy left from a project and you roll the tiny tube of it and flattened it in there and he said it worked good
@@andytubesewing1953 Hmmm, ok... I don't get the 'flattened epoxy' thing. Since pressure is applied to the rear of the indicator, I'm thinking a small metal piece glued in place across the hole and flush with the back of it would be best. BTW, the replacement tensioner appears to have two discs, i.e. single thread...
Thank you for this thorough explanation! It's so helpful. I have a question I'm hoping you could help me with? I have a Singer 5107 with a broken tension assembly. The metal cylinder piece that goes in the hole and holds the assembly in the machine is cracked and crumbling. I bought a replacement assembly and removed the tension assembly and screw that holds it in, however, the metal cylinder is stuck. Any ideas how to remove it so I can put the new assembly in? I've tried triflow, pliers (metal crumbled), and chiseling it out but it is stuck.
Sorry, Brittany, I can't help you with this model. It's too new for me to have worked on. Very few earlier Singer models have that type of metal barrel that holds the tension assembly. Does it fit into a metal frame? Or just a plastic frame? Usually, on much older models, the barrel stays in place and the stud with the parts attached is removed. I don't have a clue as to why the metal barrel is cracking and crumbling. On models where the stud is stuck into the metal body, I have had some luck using heat from a hairdryer or heat gun to help get it free.
@@andytubesewing1953 I've never thought of using a heat gun. Great idea! Before I could attempt it, my husband said he'd just drill out the old metal piece. Now it's ready for a new tension assembly. Thanks so much for your help! I'm a collector of mostly Japanese class 15 clones and this is my first Singer. I'll keep the heating gun idea in mind for future stuck pieces :)
@@brittanys6814 Good job Mr. Brittany! You're all set then. I hope you'll try another Singer in the future. Something older and better made. Take Care.
The 201 tension unit is even easier to remove. This video for tension on a 221 is better for you b/c it has the same tension unit as your 201. The disassembly starts at 55:00 of the video: ruclips.net/video/enSTxxzqy4s/видео.html You may like to download a FREE copy of the Instruction Manual for your 201. It has 77 pages about using your machine, and pages 26 -27 show and describe the remove & replace instructions for the tension assembly. Here is the download page at Singer Support and click on the top manual: www.singer.com/search/support?title=201 Good Luck, and thanks for watching my channel.
Hi Andy - I feel I am monopolising your attention for which I apologise sincerely. However, your help has been invaluable to me with my Singer 507. I have tried to find a solution to another problem but to no avail and once again I have turned to you. Just of late - my thread has been getting twisted round the thread spooler pin and each time I also notice that the thread on my bobbin has come out of the Apollo bobbin case and is 'lying' across the top of the bobbin spool. It is a new Apollo9 case I have recently bought - so I guess it can't be that? Unless I have to tighten/loosen the adjusting screw. I'm puzzled to what is wrong - whether it is something to do with the thread spooler or elsewhere on my machine. My tension is perfect - thanks to one of your other videos. Do you have any ideas that could possibly help me? Thank you Andy - I really appreciate the time you take to reply.
It's just too vague of a question and I can't picture the "lying across". Maybe you should try to email me andytube53@gmail.com. Send some pictures. Tell me the history of the machine with you. Have you got the instruction manual? Is the machine new to you? Are you a new sewist? I'll watch for your email today.
@@andytubesewing1953 Thank you Andy for your reply - much appreciated. I guessed it was a bit vague as it was hard to describe - sorry. I will do that - email you. Meantime, my Singer 507 was bought 45 years by me. I'm not new to sewing - I was a machinist for a while for Marks & Spencer back in the day. I have the Instruction Manual. I will wait until the problem arises again so as I can take pics - it may be a day or so. Thank you again.
Sir, I can't thank you enough for this explanation. I was having trouble with my singer 477, it was a gift from my grand mother so I was afraid I couldn't use it anymore but I was able to fix it by myself just with this video. Thank you!
Thanks for the nice comment, Miguel. It's great the video helped and hang onto your grandmother's gift. Priceless.
Thank you for this clear demonstration. Nice to keep these old beauties in circulation! 😊
Unfortunately, it’s missing the tension flange indicator adapter and has only 2 rings. But it’s a Stylist 522 so maybe 2 rings is correct.
I'm glad you found the video to be helpful and I appreciate your comment happy sewing
Puzzling! The Singer 522 Instruction Manual shows it can be used to sew twin needles. It needs three tension discs to separate the threads for proper tension.
@@andytubesewing1953 Thank you for letting me know it needs that extra tension disc. The machine was given to me so may be worth getting the missing parts. 😊
@@heatherheather7107 good luck
Love your videos. You explain it so well, even for a 79 year old me, I was able to take apart, clean and put it back ! Thank you so much!
Nothing is slowing you down, Mary. Nicely done, and thanks for the comment.
I've been watching your videos for over a month now,you will never know how grateful I am,not just for the information but for your cadence. Not only are you very informative but you remind me so much of my Dad and the way you both go into extreme detail. Once its seen,heard and explained in such detail it's hard to forget.........
Thank you Andy!!!!!
I'm glad you found my channel, Alan. I appreciate the kind words very much. Take care.
Unlike many DIY how-to videos posted online, yours are clearly explained and well filmed in just the right amount of detail. Thanks, Andy, for helping me use and understand my machine.
Thank you for the kind comment, Chris. Happy sewing and be safe.
A MILLION THANKS ANDY!! The entire tension mechanism on my Singer 533 popped out while I was sewing and I couldn’t figure out why it kept doing that. Your breakdown of the different parts helped me diagnose a loose set screw for the tension stud and once I reassembled everything, it worked perfectly. I say this without exaggeration or hyperbole, this is the most useful RUclips video I’ve ever watched. Thanks again!
Man, that must have been frustrating! I'm glad you found the video. Thanks for a great comment and take care.
THANK YOU SO MUCH! I was on the verge of pulling my hair out. watching video after video of tutorials on how to fix my tension, "professionals" that know so much about my beloved 403. Hours of researching! ALL crap! YOU, YOU helped me fix my 403, THANK YOU!
I LOVE IT! I am happy you found my video, and you are kind, Wendi, to leave such a nice comment. All the best.
Brilliant. Needed this as I’m working getting a model 348 back in business. Thank you. 😊
Happy you found the video. A good machine is worth the effort. A couple of playlists with adjustments for your model: ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKJS_4FKPb4bgAbHtYWnexvy ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKIv5oChf24tvhU_bc45eVYK Thanks for saving that machine.
My wife asked me to service a older Singer 411 ( made in Germany) cabinet machine that had not been used in 20 plus years - I wish I had have found this channel months ago - on a personal note I started in the Motor Trade in the late '60's and left the bench in the late '90's; this experts language and descriptions are brilliant, brief, and comprehensive. I have subscribed (on her behalf) and will view other videos as I time permits ( I have my own projects); - explaining technologies is not easy - but this Craftsman's plain speaking is a true standard.
Thank you very much, sir. With your background & experience, the comment you made was very meaningful to me. Kind of you to do that, and please do return when you have time. BTW, you can download a free copy of the original instruction manual here if needed: ismacs.net/singer_sewing_machine_company/manuals/singer-411g-ib-sewing-machine-manual.pdf
Take care.
@@andytubesewing1953 Thanks Andy, regards, Pete.
Thank you that was so clear and easy to follow.
Glad it was helpful! Thank you for keeping your machine and service and happy sewing
I am so grateful you posted this video. It has saved me from having to buy a new machine. A very helpful video! Thank you
You are welcome, and I'm glad it helped save your machine. Chances are it's better than many modern ones anyway. Thank you for taking the time to comment. Happy Sewing.
Answered my question perfectly. I took it apart and cleaned it but didn't know how to set the tension after reassembly. Thanks!
I'm glad you found the video. Thanks for the nice comment
I had to remove the tension unit of my 338. The +|- indicator was broke. Luckily i was able to find another. I would not have been able to do this with out you. Thank you so much and Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas, and thanks for keeping the machine in service. It's a beauty, and I'm glad you found a replacement you could use.
Blessings of health and happiness to you and your family
🙏🌹
My ears might be bleeding and my head spins - but this is just such important info to share with the stitching community. Thank you so much for this!💕🧵And you featured one of my favorite songs - a clever tie-in to the subject matter…”Tighten Up” by Archie Bell and the Drells!!
I appreciate your nice comment wow thank you very much and I especially enjoyed that you noticed the music I always tried to have good relatable music for the bumper into the video so it's nice when somebody comments about it 😊🌹
Thank You Andy! Your Tension assembly Breakdown on that machine (that's darn close to my Late Grandmother's *Singer* *Zig* *Zag* *413* Table Model) was precise and thorough! Been slowly fixin' up my sewing unit to hand off to one of my Nieces. Sewing Machines can last Generations inside of a loving productive Family. Will study your other videos, while looking for a way to replace the engine mount assembly on an early '70's Blue/White *Elna* *SU* .
Thanks for watching my channel. I hope you find what you need for the Elna, but I've never even had my hands on one. Good Luck.
Thread tensioner is an important part in the sewing machine. Difficult to regulate and disassemble. Good video.
Thank you very much.
Amazing video. I should have disassembled and reassembled my wife's sewing machine tension assembly before I ordered a replacement as her repair shop told her she needed. He said the assembly was missing a part and therefore wouldn't keep the correct tension on the thread. As it turns out, the repair shop disassembled the assembly to clean it and put it back together in an incorrect order which is why it wasn't keeping the correct tension. Thank you very much for your thorough and accurate instruction video.
Thanks for the compliment. I appreciate you watching my channel and I hear from hundreds of viewers about repair shops that just aren't very good with vintage machines and that's one of the reasons I go into such detail I may have more videos on your particular singer model. Do you just go to my homepage? I list playlist by model number. Thanks so much for watching my channel and keeping your machine and service
Followed your instructions for my mums old machine circa 1974 (somebody had messed it all up at some point in history), Just put it all back together as your instructions and its working perfectly, whenever i think of my mum i see her at the table sewing with this machine in front of her ! Tremendous sentimental value. Thankyou so much with a cherry on top !
Nicely done, Jason. If only the machine could talk; I'll bet it misses your mum too! Thank you for fixing the machine and respecting it and your mum. You did a wonderful thing there. Take Care.
Thank you for all the helpful details!
Certainly, and thanks for your interest. Happy New Year.
OMG! Thank you!! I could NOT have done it without this video.
My "new" '63 Singer 403 had 60 years of air dirt & rust in the tension unit. After oiling and greasing the machine, the thread kept snapping!! I decided to give the tension spring a whirl...well, It was slog...but, with your instructions and finally finding a screw driver for that really really tiny tiny screw. I finally got it cleaned and put back together. For me, it WAS rock science...every piece had to be just so.
It works now! Think I'll take the "58 down and do her, too. I never had her maintained, sewed everything for 60+ years...oiled and greased her regularly...but the tension thingie? never.
BTW, I used an ice cube tray to put the pieces in order which helped me keep my sanity.
I had to use WD40...it did clean and remove most of the rust.
Very welcome, Judy. Yes, I've heard of ice cube trays and egg cartons being used and it's all good. Ha, ha, yes the tiny screw! Did you know the Model 403A is my favorite Heavy Duty Singer ZZ model? We love it for sure, and I have a 27-video playlist for working on that model: ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKKyqvdDRwS-9MfLuwSNJTcg I named her Regina b/c she is the "Queen of ZigZag Machines" IMO. I enjoyed your comment very much, thank you.
@@andytubesewing1953 That tiny screw! I was terrified that it would drop down and NEVER be found. It is smaller than half a grain of rice: uncooked. Very difficult for 83 yr old fingers to work into the hole. A magnetized screw driver would have helped, but the only thing I could find was the screw driver at the end of the nail file on a Swiss Army Knife.
@@andytubesewing1953 Thank you for the 27 video playlist! You are my new best friend! I love my sewing machines. I expect to "take them with me" when I go. That's a joke. I have thought about gifting the old one but I would have to do a "home study" to make sure it was going to someone who would take very good care it it. Like an adoption or a pet placement. ...I'm that nuts.
@@judydyer You're a good improviser, Judy. Congratulations on your determination and newly learned skill! A fine octogenarian technician. 🏆⭐💝
@@judydyer Not nuts at all. You've spent a lot of time with them and it sounds like they have served you well. Think how many of the old ones have been "lost" forever. It's a good thing to want to protect them.
I was about to give up on my yard sale 337. This man literally saved my life. THANK YOU
No, thank you! Thank you for rescuing that marvelous machine and not giving up on it.
I'm glad the video helped. As is often the case with yard sale machines they can have some issues. I have a 30+ video series of a step-by-step restoration for model 337; ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKJxbOOMKQPvmeTRqi0dhGa5 If you find a few things wrong or want to replace worn parts like a motor belt, or just give it a good cleaning and oiling, these videos can help. The original Instruction Manual SInger made for the 337 has 38 pages of very useful info about using the machine and basic sewing instructions and so forth and is still available for free download from SInger;
www.singer.com/search/support?title=337 Besides being a very beautiful machine, it is quite strong and versatile and easily sews fabric from light chiffon to denim, duck cloth, canvas, and even upholstery! I hope you enjoy it very much and thank you for leaving such a nice comment. Happy sewing.✨
I just wanted to thank you. I was really struggling but I followed your video step by step and now my machine sews perfectly. Thank you so much again
Thank you for making my morning with your comment.✨ It's kind of you to take the time. Happy sewing, Natalie and take care.
Can't say it enough, you are so good at demonstrating what you are doing! I just walked thru this on my 338, got the tension just right! Thank You so much for sharing your skills/ talent, time here, helping us to get it done! lis
Your kind comment made my day. Thank you. 🙏 It is incredibly rewarding to know my time & efforts are appreciated and helpful.
Thanks for keeping your machine in top working condition. Take care.
Thank you so much for this! I was having so much trouble with my 338, and resetting the tension sorted it all out. How wonderful to be able to take care of my machine myself!
I'm glad you found the video. You're the Boss of your machine now and can fix it. Don't take any sass from it in the future. 😀
Happy sewing.
Yes Thank You, Soo Much. Couldn't find anything on how to put mine back together. You explained Very thoroughly but yet very easy to understand and follow. Not a lot of unnecessary chit chat! Thanks Again!!
Very happy it helped, Robin. Thanks very much for the kind comment and happy sewing.
Thank you Andy - I'm working on a Singer 338 and this video has really helped.
So happy to hear this; thank you. Model 338 is the machine my daughter asked me to restore for her and she loves it. I only made 20 videos of it, but the Playlist is here if you have not seen it; ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKK4y8dsq3oMKJFTGsoNJWmi Good luck, and take care.
Thank you. The parts accidentally came apart as I accidentally loosen it too much and the spring sent everything flying. Not sure how to reassemble it back but was lucky to come across your video. Thank you again.
I'm glad you found my video. It's nice of you to comment and now you know about your tension unit. Happy sewing, Kimmie 😊✨
So happy to have found this video. Had taken my Singer 513 to a "professional" to fix the tension adjustment. Was still having problems, so decided to give it a go myself. Following your well done video allowed me to fix my tension problem AND learn about my machine. Definitely will be watching more of your videos in the future.
You found a good video and I'm glad you did. Who's the professional now? Nicely done. Other 513 videos, including where to oil & grease, ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKLELksv_-MWE7tiAuzOgQj0
FREE copy fo the Instruction Manual for your marvelous machine: www.singer.com/search/support?title=513
Happy sewing. ✨
had to watch your video again after cleaning a singer 367 tension. slightly different unit but your video helped me. thanks again hope you are well..wx 15c going colder on the river Mersey..
I'm glad the video was useful, thank you. 15c? Brrr... If I'm lucky I may see that as early as November, hehe. I was only in London for 3 days but the things I enjoyed the most were the people's accents, the taxis and their drivers, and the morning fog. I know! but fog is rare here in the desert.
Best video on Singer tensioner , I was struggling with my stylist for a while , After watching this video I finally have the tension set right ..
Thanks
It's kind of you to say so. Thank you for commenting and happy sewing.
Thanks a lot for your videos. Through this one, I know how to check if I thread correctly on my stylist 513. 😊 very appreciate your videos.
Thanks for the nice comment and for watching my channel
Wow! Andy - thank you so very very much for this clear and easy to follow video - which gave me the confidence to try this myself with my sewing machine tension! I followed every single step of this for my Singer 507 (Year 1975) and this worked an absolute treat! I have subscribed and will now enjoy watching many of your other videos. Thank you once again. I deeply appreciate this.
I'm glad you worked on your own machine. It's very rewarding, isn't it? I appreciate you watching my channel and you're very kind comment. Hope to hear from you again in the future
@@andytubesewing1953 Very rewarding - yes. Thank you again for giving me the opportunity to do this successfully! Without your video I could not/would not have attempted it!
Thank you so...much!! I took mine off to clean and been wrestling with it for an hour to put it back together correctly! You saved me!
We've all been there! I'm glad you found the video helpful. I used this style of tension unit b/c it is one of the most common on Singer models. Thanks for commenting and happy sewing.
Thanks for a great video that helped me get back to work on my 401a. Kathryn
I'm glad you found the video. Thanks for the kind comment, Kathryn, and happy sewing.
Hello Andy, remember my machine was hesitating to start sewing... I noticed this morning that the machine was sewing well without a thread... well, the problem was my tension disks, it was super thight (even at 2)... so I disassembled it again and my machine is working fine now! yeah!
Fantastic! Wow, that must have really been tight! I'm so happy you found the cause and thanks for sharing it. Another possibility to add to the list. I would not have thought of that cause.
@@andytubesewing1953 Maybe I am wrong too but for now, it seems to be much better but that leads me too... OK but if it get stuck because of the tension, maybe my motor is not that good hehe I saw an other 401A to sell, I think I'm gonna buy it and see if it goes better, and keep it for parts or whatever cause I really like this machine.
@@Cass_772 well I can't fault your reasoning on that. I have a spare motor that I cleaned up and tested for each of my wife's sewing machine. I also bought a spare hook because nobody makes those anymore. They last a long time but what if the hook point snaps off or something like that? I am so happy that you love the machine and that you are getting it back in service. I guess I said that before. Sorry but I am happy for you
@@andytubesewing1953 Ok I'll get that second machine haha I am really grateful for your help, your replies and your videos, thank you so much!
Good video on the thread tension calibration sir. This gives me confidence to try. hopefully cure my head tension and also my sewing machine issues
"head tension", hehe 😁Thanks, and good luck.
Thank you sew much. Seeing the screw inside for release pin was what I needed for my 301A. You are appreciated.
I'm glad the video helped. Btw, I do have many videos for model 301A including tension videos, There are two playlists. The first is "Coco Goes to the Spa" with 19 videos: ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKLZyGebzS_oISgesXNyREyI
The 2nd Playlist is " Remove Replace Adjust Parts on a Singer Model 301A" with 17 more videos: ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKI_6fbu3itbd1v4z3uQvvkO These videos cover almost every part on model 301A. Thanks for watching my channel, and I appreciate your nice comment.
Thank you so much. One of my little ones managed to take apart my tension unit years ago, and it's never been right since. I fixed it myself today!
Nicely done, Rebecca! I'm glad you found the video. Thank you for getting your machine back in service. Bless those kids, right? ✨
I accidentally left my thread on my tension disc when I threaded my bobbin. My tensioner was a mess. Thank you for the video! I was able to disassemble, reassemble, and correctly set the tension on my machine without needing to take it to the repair shop!!
Good job! I'm glad you found the video. No more tension "tension" for you as you now know about it. Thanks for commenting.
Thank you for another useful video Andy. Much appreciated.
Regards,
Ann.
It's always good to hear someone found my video helpful. Thank you for taking the time to let me know. Happy Sewing
Thank you. I have a Singer 2404. The tension was installed incorrectly. After carefully watching your tutorial, I am sewing !
Very nicely done Denise. I'm glad you found my video. Thanks for the nice comment and happy sewing!
This video was very informative as usual. I want to watch your other videos about tension as well. My recent 401A purchase was very dusty and had a lot of lint in the bobbin area. The tension discs probably need a good cleaning as well especially since I have to set the dial to 6/7 to make the stitches to look decent, but not as good as I think they should be. I always get nervous about disassembling parts, but after watching your video, I think I’ll give it a try. Thank you!
Thank you Shelly. A lot of Lent in the bobbin area can relate to their also being a lot of Lent in the tension unit. If it gets impacted in the check spring or the actual tension spring and the disc, it can prevent proper tension. Thus, you have to add more and more so a nice cleaning can really make a difference. Best of luck and thanks for the nice comment
Thanks Andy. That was exactly what I needed to set up and zero the tension on that exact model.
I'm glad you found the video, Matthew. Lucky it was done with a model 413, right? A nice machine and very capable until the plastic gear on the vertical shaft breaks apart. It seems like a matter of time and usage before they go out. I had so many inquiries about that gear that I made a video for replacement. Maybe your machine already had the gear replaced but if not keep this video in mind for replacing the gear; ruclips.net/video/M3bFtlV1Y6s/видео.html Thanks for taking the time to comment and take care.
Thank you for the post. Slow and methodical with a good explanation of what you are doing. My checkspring is disengaged. I am going to try to fix my White 221 with your help.
Thanks for commenting. I may have some better videos for the type of tension assembly on your featherweight. It should be the same style as the SInger Model 301A. Where the little chrome adjusting knob in this video uses a set screw, the 301A & 221 knob has a pin on the back that sits into small holes in the numbered dial. I covered all the tension assembly work in my Coco 301A series if you'd care to take a look. DIsmantle Video: ruclips.net/video/c6usEx1vUKY/видео.html Installation Video: ruclips.net/video/VPzpLIAvz8Y/видео.html and finally how to set the Stroke & Tension of the check spring: ruclips.net/video/lOLKpvonnPE/видео.html Best of luck with it and thanks for watching my channel.
ANDY! You are my hero! Thank you! Thank you! Next, I'm praying you have videos working with a 1964 New Home (Janome) 670. Blessings to you!
So sorry, MissMarta. I only work on vintage Singer machines. The only thing I know about the Janome models is they are high quality, so congrats on having one. Good luck, and thanks for watching my channel.
I appreciate your response ❤
I will be back, I have 3 beautiful Great-Grandma hand-me-down vintage Singers. One, a treadle! I'll holler when I get to one of those projects. Blessings!
@@missmartamc sure thing🙂
By the way, I was working on my Janome when I watched this video of yours, and the tension unit in mine is different, so I watched and rewatched what you were doing and listened to what you had to say, and because you are so thorough, I was able to do the repair and put it back together properly. And it works like a dream. Thought I should add that.
@@missmartamc thanks for letting me know. I get complaints. My videos are too long but my goal is to explain how the parts work and how they all work together. And I'm glad you took the time to listen and not just watch and that it was worth it for you since you got it fixed. Thanks again for letting me know. That's kind of you.
That has answered so many questions for me, thank you, you have a new subscriber.
Thanks for the sub! 🙏 I appreciate your comment.
Thank you Andy Tube. I was going to give up on my 1960s 670g until I found your video. Only difference was the stop pin hangs down, but I managed to suss it out. Julie D
That's an unusual position for the pin, but if it works then all is well. I've never seen a 670g in person so I downloaded the manual from Singer. What a versatile machine! I'm glad you were able to save it. Thanks for that, and for commenting on my channel. Take Care.
Thank you so much , perfect video and explanation helped me for my singer machine
I'm very happy to hear that. Christina, it's always rewarding when somebody says my video help them fix their machine and thanks for keeping your machine and service
Thanks so much, for some reason the thread take up spring on our 507 had no spring back the way it was adjusted. It's now working great, awesome work.
Nice work, Phillip! I'm glad you found the video and thanks for commenting.
Andy your videos are excellent! I wonder how many sewing machines have been saved from the landfill based on the great repair instructions you provide. You recently helped us replace the top gear on a Singer 457 and with this video we returned a Singer 338 to good working condition (our tension woes are now gone). Thank you for all your time and effort!
Thank you very much. Yes, viewers like you have saved many machines. Hundreds maybe. With 5 million views of the videos maybe even thousands of machines. It's incredible to think about. I appreciate the kind comment and your saving those machines. They are worthy of it, and it is gratifying to get them working again. Take care and come back again.
Merci énormément pour votre vidéo grace a vous j'ai réparé la tension de ma machine singer 513 elle coud super bien
Merci 😊
Merci beaucoup, Marie. Je suis honoré que l'un des premiers commentaires que vous ayez fait sur votre nouveau compte concerne cette vidéo. Je suis heureux que vous ayez trouvé ma vidéo et qu'elle vous ait aidé. Bonne couture !
Thank you for sharing this excellent how-to!
I'm glad you found it, Todd. Thanks for taking the time to comment. Take Care.
Thank You Andy!
😃
Great video Andy! I just did this to my 401 and readjusted the tension several times. Might have to change it again but I can’t try it out because I don’t like sewing in thunderstorms and there’s one blowing over now. The scariest part of the whole process is trying to get that teeny tiny retaining screw in without losing it. I dropped it a few times and found it luckily but it panicked me a little. LOL!
Yes, be safe! Oh man, when that tiny screw drops it's like your heart stops as you try to see/listen where it went. Done that, believe me. Thanks for watching.
So helpful thanks a lot, I had problem with my tension and the thread was shredding ! THANKS THANKS THANKS YOU’RE AWESOME !
Sure, you are very welcome. I make videos like this exactly for folks like you who are perfectly willing to work on their machines and just need a little bit more info and guidance. Thanks for being persistent until you found a solution. Happy sewing.
Hi Andy!! I just wanted to let you know, ONE: I figured out the discs myself. TWO: Had I watched your very first video on "A Broken Tension Unit....What Now?" (Stella) the 237 (Silly Me, Lol), I wouldn't have had to figure it out myself....Because you showed exactly how the (Saucers,teehee) tension discs go together!!!! I ALSO have to let you know, how HAPPY I AM for going back & WATCHING the first video!!! You have ANSWERED quite a FEW questions I would've had for you later on. Believe it or Not, I am still working on my Singer Sonata 6606. Plus I have MY other Singer 1120, ALSO on my kitchen table, that I first started to work on (tension issues too, I think) the hand wheel is VERY hard to turn manually, yet it still sews. Only problem is, stitches don't look quite right. So ONCE AGAIN, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!! Sincerely & Oh, SO Very Grateful that I stumbled upon YOU!! You're the Best, Andy Tube! Be talking to you soon.For, I also HAVE a 401A Slant-O-Matic!!!! That Story is for another DAY! LOL :) :)
You are one busy mechanic lady. It sounds like you are having a good time there, and thank you for saving and fixing up those machines. When you're ready for your 401A, check out my playlist page for the series on models 401, 403a, 404 & 503a. Lots of good info for working on the parts of a 401A. ruclips.net/channel/UCUSPDsHaFtRoz1VA2U1xJ4wplaylists?view_as=public
I have over 500 videos so you will see some other Singer Models you may be interested in as time goes by. Take care.
@@andytubesewing1953 Hi Andy!! Not sure how much of a mechanic I am!! Thanks to You and (my fav's) your Video tutorials I have learned so much!! Soon I will be known as the "Mechanic Lady"!! Love that reply, thank you!! Maybe, the "Busy Mechanic Lady", yes, much better!! LOL!! NOW, here's the funny thing....Yest. I was just putting all the nice clean parts (except the tension disc, springs etc) back on (yep) my 6606. Had just oiled her too & my hand was getting tired of turning the hand wheel manually. So decided to run her for a little bit, to get the oil all around & good & ready. TOTALLY forgot that the motor was running slow, ran her for awhile anyway. Had to take a BREAK!! Came back to my PC, & "Low & Behold", WHO & WHAT do I see???? My FAV' MAN, You Andy!!! "How to Speed Up your Motor in 5 minutes for $10" !!! Now, all I've got to do is Order me one of those stones!!! Thanks Again ANDY!! Can't WAIT to get busy on My 401A!! You know I'll be following right along w/YOU!! :) :) :)
@@deniselane4160 I can see your videos now "Tuning up a Model 6606, by "The Busy Mechanic Lady". It sounds like your machine is coming along well and nicely done. I think you'd be happy with the performance increase after using the brush seater stone. I just received a comment on that video that it may be a better idea to clean the parts off with alcohol than the spray electronic cleaner, FYI. Good to hear from you. Good Luck.
Was hoping anyone would post this exactly! Have 2 machines with issues. Thanks so much!
Thank you very much. I'm glad you found the video and wish you success on your machines. Thanks for working to keep them in service.
THANKS AGAIN!!! My tension issues relieved MUCH APPRECIATED!
Very welcome, Dave. I love hearing that and thanks for watching my channel.✨
Hoping a good cleaning will help my machine out 🥲No matter what I have the tension at, the disks trap the thread and snap it. Doesn't seem like any debris is in there, so I'm going to actually wash the parts like you said. Also, Krud Kutter is amazing! Used it as a maid- it's wonderful for soap scum in the tub 😁
Having a clean and adjusted tension assembly is always a good idea. It can fix the problem or lead you to the location causing it. Good Luck.
I am so happy I found this video - slow going but so thorough and I think I have finally “fixed” my 6212C based on this video. Slightly different indicator and adjustment nut, but otherwise absolutely able to follow and put it back it back together again! So far (is there an emoji for crossing the fingers?) sample stitches look good 😮 now onto a project😅
I'm glad you found the video too and happy that it seems to be working for you. 🤞Happy sewing! By the way many people watch my video set one and a half speed. I go slow because about half of my viewers don't speak English as a first language and I want them to follow along. Take care and thanks for the nice comment
Aaarrrggghhh. I knew I was missing something so simple -- check spring was positioned incorrectly. Thanks for being my Go To source for easy fixes when nothing's working right. Saved my sanity -- what there is left of it -- again.
Always glad to help! Thanks for remembering my channel. Happy sewing.
Another Great video Andy Thank You !
😀
Great video Andy.I think I can do this after watching you!
Thank you. You can do it! Thanks for watching
This video finally showed how to get the tension wheels working, now I have the issue where the bottom loops like crazy, and the top is snapping! If I try tightening the wheels the thread just snaps every time
can you tell me what model of Singer machine you are working on, please? A few possibilities for bottom loops. Often signifies lack of tension on needle thread, or very high tension on bobbin case (more rare). Can also be incorrect threading path, takeup lever problem, and so forth. Did this happen before you worked on the tension?
Andy, thank you so much! I’m restoring a Featherweight 221 and working on the original thread tension unit. However, the threaded stud probably needs to be replaced and the screw on the other side cannot be removed. Your videos have guided me through a lot all of the restoration and I am a subscriber. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated! Thanks, Larry White, Tallahassee, Fl
Stuck screws are a pain for sure. I've had some luck with soaking them overnight with a penetrating oil, like WD40. Also heating them with a hair dryer. On larger ones, I have used a "tap-n-turn" method of hitting the screwdriver sharply with a small hammer while trying to turn it. I don't think I've done that on a small set screw. Having a good-fitting hollow-ground screwdriver with flat sides is a must to help prevent stripping half of the head off. Did you know I have a playlist for model 221? ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKIA1OPw0k6QOSTE-wAUZ4kp One of those videos is about tension units ruclips.net/video/enSTxxzqy4s/видео.html: This family seems to know more than anyone about the featherweights. They have helped me a couple of times through email questions. You can reach out to them if you like. They are really nice folks. singer-featherweight.com/ Good luck.
Thanks so much for the video. While not exactly the same as my Kenmore it definitely explains a lot. Hopefully I can clean and set mine now rather than paying for a new assembly. Which is what I was about to do because I was unsure of how it went together or worked. Cheers
I'm sure you can do it. the basic principles of the tension unit are the same no matter the brand so if the parts are similar I'll bet you can clean it and adjusted. I sure hope so and thank you so much for taking the time to leave a comment good luck
Thank so much sir, your video is very helpful and thanks for sharing
You are most welcome and I'm glad you found the video. Thanks for repairing your machine. Take Care.
Very well explained.
It's kind of you to say so, Birgit. Thank You.
Thanks, this was a great help!
Welcome, and glad you found the video. Happy sewing.
Thank you so mutch Andy, a very fine tutorial for zero tension !
very pragmatic !
the only setting that i want and never find on manual
Good job !
PS :
i have bougth an Handheld letter scale (like you), but i really prefer this method !
You are welcome! I'm glad you found the video. Pragmatic says it all, right? Nicely done. Don't be a stranger. 500+ more videos on my playlist page 😀
ruclips.net/channel/UCUSPDsHaFtRoz1VA2U1xJ4wplaylists?view_as=public
Amazing! So thankful for this video!!!
I'm glad it was helpful. Thanks for taking the time to comment. ✨
What a pristine tension unit, looks barely used. Taking tension units apart looked so scary until I found your videos!
This was an easy one. Yes, pristine. I have a buyer for this machine already and she's ready to go.
Enjoyed the video Andy
Thank you
Welcome. Thanks for checking it out.
Hi Andy Tube, I must say, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!! I've done the SAME thing as some of the comments had replied; LOOKING everywhere (on the Web, RUclips etc.) on how to fix the tension on my Singer(Sonata) 6606....The tension knob on it is ALMOST the same as in your Video!! I created a NEW playlist with ONLY YOU as my Created TITLE!!! You are so very patient, sweet & You explain EVERY single detail that I actually comprehend!!! I am Ecstatic that I Found YOU!! I wish you were my neighbor! teehee!! I could watch & Listen to You ALL DAY Long!!! I DO Have ONE question though. When I took apart the tension disc's (yes, I also have 3 discs) I didn't pay attention to how they came off....Plus mine has the middle one as (just) a FLAT disc. Thee other two have that concave on the one side & convex (like a small doughnut) on the opposite side. Sorry, idk how to describe them!!! I only know the flat disc goes in the middle. My question (FINALLY!!!) which way do thee other two go? In your: (this) video you have all 3 discs w/the Convex sides on top of each other. Would mine go the same way? Sincerely & Thanks so Much, Denise Lane :)
WOW! I'm honored. Tell your friends who are stuck at home b/c of this coronavirus. I have 500+ videos! You have the correct idea. The donuts need to face the center disc so they can squeeze the thread to put tension on it. So convex towards the middle disc? thanks so much for watching my channel. take care.
@@andytubesewing1953 Hello Again Andy! I will most certainly be telling my Friends about You!! You have saved me from soooo many questions!! Plus you've taught me so much already!! Tho, I do need to come back to my PC & re-watch Your Tutorials to make sure I AM doing it right!! LOL! BTW, I haven't been back to my machine yet today. (I was up for 2 days straight, w/no sleep)Not only bcuz, I was working on my 6606 but, also bcuz I was printing some of the pages of a MANUAL I found, (Thanks to YOU once again...for the link) for my 6606. That was ALL b4 I FORGOT to let you know, I hadn't taken the bottom cover off (my 6606)yet to check my motor!!! (my comment on previous 'REPLY' Today)!! I'll get back w/you, once I've taken the bottom cover off. Even if its not a PA, I know I'll be keeping YOUR INFO. w/my ANDY TUBE Playlist!!! Besides, I still have my 401A still to work on!! Stay Healthy Andy!! Sincerely, ("Busy Mechanic Lady"), I LOVE That so much!! Thanks! Denise Lane. P.S. I've never had a SPECIFIC username!! So, ONLY when I think I'm pretty good at it, I'll USE it!! Be talkin' to ya Soon!!
@@deniselane4160 Thanking you for sharing my channel. Good Luck.
Thank you. Very well done. Helped a lot.
Welcome, and thanks for taking the time to comment. Take Care.
Excellent video! Thank you for sharing!
Wow, thank you for commenting. My dose of extra kindness today. Please stop by again. Have a great 2020.
Awesome video. Thank you. I’ve just been given a 437 and the tension is terrible. Hopefully I’ll be able to fix it with your help :)
Thank you. I've never seen a 437 here in the US but was able to download a free copy of the Instruction Manual from Singer
www.singer.com/search/support?title=437 It looks like the same tension assembly and I know you can clean and adjust it.
I appreciate your taking the time to leave a comment. Good Luck and Take Care.
Perfect! Just the video I needed!😉
Glad you found it! Thanks for fixing your tension, and for leaving a comment. Happy sewing.
Than you so much!
Surely, and thank you for taking the time to comment.
Thank you Andy!!! I was going crazy trying to find an example of a tension assembly with 3 tension discs. I've been sewing for about a year now on a Singer Simple 3232 and every time I topstitch with a twin needle, it pops a bunch of stitches or the needle breaks. The only solution I could find is to make sure the threads are separated as they run through the tension disc so they don't tangle, but I couldn't see how that's possible on my machine--it definitely only has the 2 discs and no way of separating the threads. Thank you for helping me solve this mystery! I'm disappointed though, because I definitely prefer the look of topstitching with the twin needle for hemlines and the like. Any advice on whether there's still a way to use a twin needle on my machine?
I certainly understand the desire to have the twin needle stitching; it's beautiful. I could not find any parts documents for the model you mention to see what the tension discs looked like. Many are concave/convex shaped with the two convex sides facing together to put the tension on the thread. It has been a number of years, but I came across a machine with the two tension disc system that was sewing twin needle on dress shirts. (In the Philippines) I asked the fellow how he got the machine to use twin needles. He told me he added a thin flat polished steel disc between the two existing discs. He then had to make a new tension releasing pin that was a tiny bit longer to compensate for the thickness of the new disc, (he said that took a while and lots of trial and error to get it just right). I have made new tension releasing pins from a finishing nail, so I understood what he was saying. He was lucky that the tension stud was long enough to add the thin disc. He said the disc was a washer that he drilled a larger hole in to fit on the stud, then he polished it with fine sandpaper for smoothness. When I commented that he went to a lot of work, he said "yeah, I did, but look at that double-stitched seam" 😀 Again, I have no idea about your particular tension assembly, but there's an idea for you to think about.
@@andytubesewing1953 Haha, I totally get this guy--"look at that double-stitched seam" indeed! I think for me, it's not going to be worth going to all the effort to DIY something that complex--I'd be more likely to break the whole assembly than anything else. I also anticipate that as my sewing skills improve, I'll upgrade my machine to something with more versatility and add "3-plated tension assembly" to my must-have list. In the meantime, I can make do with finding a different stitch for my hems, but I'm at least glad to add a valuable piece of knowledge to my "sewing theory" repertoire. Thanks again Andy! without videos like this, I wouldn't have been able to learn a fraction of what I know now about sewing!
@@jackiehannaford Good luck going forward then. BTW, many of the vintage Singer models can double-needle or twin-needle sew. Here is my main Playlist page wh=ere I have videos organized by model number. Often a vintage machine can be found for a reasonable price. Maybe you'll see a model that catches your eye. Happy sewing then.
Hi Andy 👋 let me start by saying thank you for taking your time to explain the sewing mechanisms in detail. But the 360 singer model it doesn't have the screw on the tensioner. Please let us know how to remove it.
The thumb nut or grip on the front just pulls straight off, like right at you 👀 It has an adaptor that screws on, but no flange on the adaptor. The 3 tension discs are different on your model. I think the center one is flat. The two on the outsides go on with the raised portion facing the flat center disc. Unusual. I'd really suggest buying the Service Manual for it that has the step-by-step remove & replace directions. store.tandtrepair.com/240-248sm.html It's $10.50 but Terry will discount it by 20% if you use my coupon code of andy-h-yt before the end of 2021. That makes it $8.40 and instant download. If you are not into working on it and are not in a hurry you can buy a new one from China for $7 from many sellers, or pay more for a shipper in the USA. www.ebay.com/itm/Tension-422403-457-For-Singer-242-247-252-360-368-400-403-404-6105-6212-7110/143757742753?hash=item2178a112a1:g:9PkAAOSw6Khfb~Ip
IMO, vintage parts are better made and last longer so I try to clean and adjust before replacing. Good luck.
thank you very much for your help
I'm glad you found the video helpful. Take care.
Hey Andy, my mom has a Singer 6105 sewing machine and for decades it has served us well, but one fateful eve my mom took it to a repair shop for some simple maintenancing, ever since then the machine has not sewed right. The tension assembly is quite loose and setting the tension with the knob no longer has an affect. Ive been trying to remove the knob but there is no flange or set screw to start with, it is simply the numbered indicator knob, then the +/- ring and finally the metal assembly you run the thread through. Other than the knob being plastic only the tension assemblies on both yours and our machine looks the same.
Hey Im just commenting further to update you and let you know I found the set screw I needed within the machine and got the tension assembly taken apart. Dont know how I didnt spot it sooner but on closer inspection I found there was a component missing that is part of the tension assembly and made an order for a replacement ASAP. My mom couldnt be happier, thank you! Finding your videos was a welcome reward as well. I appreciate all the work you do to help people like me! Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
I see you found a solution. Congrats. For others who read the comment with this type of plastic "tension Indicator" knob you just pull it straight off of the unit. Underneath is a "tension indicator adaptor" that it pushes onto. That adaptor is like the flange adaptor in this video. So, the plastic numbered knob is held on by friction.
@@Fangman123789 (for other viewers reading this comment) It sounds like you found the internal set screw that holds the tension stud onto the machine. Loosening that set screw allows the stud with all the attached parts to be removed as a unit from the machine. I'm glad you found a solution and thanks for the followup comment.
@@andytubesewing1953 Thank you too, your videos helped me a lot! Merry Christmas again!
@@Fangman123789 😊
Thank you Andy for making a video on the tension adjustment knob. It worked for me. I had thread bunching up like it was eating up all my bobbin thread. I have another question. The pedal is either a very very fast or i have to pump it slowly. Any way to adjust that?
I have a couple of playlists for cleaning and adjusting foot controllers, a button style & a clamshell style. You don't mention the type of foot controller you have. Here are the links to the playlists if you want to check them out. ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKL6ePPxLpmnWSzTyxPKTb71 ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKItPLWcK24FBoMdHK8vTXNi I'm glad the tension video helped, and good luck.
Thanks a lot you have really helped
Happy to hear this. Nice comment. Thanks for watching my channel.
Andy how do you know soooooo much about sewing machines?
Curiosity. Trial & error. After a couple dozen machines I got pretty good. Thanks for watching my channel.
Hi Andy, thanks for the great videos. I have a Singer 447 that I am trying to get working. I have followed your video to refurbish the tension unit. Everything is fine until I try to set the tension. When I put the presser foot down nothing happens to the tension. Have I done something wrong?
With the foot down tension should be applied to the tension discs. When the foot is raised the tension release pin should be pushing the discs away from the spring to remove tension on the thread. You should easily see the indicator dial (the - | +) and the tension discs move when lifting the foot. If that is not happening, the short x-bar in the center of the indicator dial could be missing or cracked and the pin cannot move it. The tension releasing pin could be missing. When you lift the presser bar lever it moves a Tension Release Lever in the nose of the machine against the inside end of the Tension Release Pin. If that lever is bent and cannot contact the pin, then the pin won't push against the indicator dial and release the tension on the discs. Those are the most common reasons. Here is another tension video that talks more about the tension release pin: ruclips.net/video/JqauIOWs9CI/видео.html Here is a video about making a new tension release pin from a nail: ruclips.net/video/M1kXDd5GLEE/видео.html Here is a video about replacing a damaged Tension Releasing Lever:
ruclips.net/video/tw-Y3V_LrnA/видео.html Here is a video about a broken x-bar on an INdicator dial/flange. So people can replace the x-bar with a wire/toothpick/etc but I buy a new one if available: ruclips.net/video/-TmDis0pcmU/видео.html
Thanks so much. More work to do!
@@kaffjones8710 Best of luck!
Thank you so much
You are welcome. Thank you for repairing your machine and keeping it in service.
Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!
You're welcome!
tHANK YOU VERY MUSH ANDY , VERY GOOD VIDEO.
You are welcome, Valarina. Nice comment, thanks!
I could have saved myself so much stress with my 522(which also has the same unit) last night if I had only noticed that the tensioner is automatically released by the foot. That explains the rod in the middle of the split screw!
Yes a little hidden tension releasing pin activated by a lever when you raise the pressure bar I'm glad you found it now and I'm glad you found the video I enjoyed your comment thank you very much
Andy, I have enjoyed watching your series and have learned a lot about sewing machine. I hope you can help me with my present problem. My tension unit is different from all the ones I have seen on your series. There is no set screw in the knob. It looks like it was press on and I can't find a way to remove it without damaging it. Your help would be appreciated.
Hi, Albert. I've never worked on the 240 series of Singer machines. I do have the parts manual for them and it has a blow-out picture of the tension parts. To me, it looks like there is a compression band inside the plastic numerated dial that slips onto a knurled knob to hold the parts on. I think you can pull the knob straight off the rest of the unit. You can buy a service manual for them for $9 at this link: manualsoncd.com/product/singer-240-series-sewing-machine-service-manual/ You just download a PDF after paying. As a matter of fact, in the listing for the manual, they show some pictures, and one of them is the blow-out diagram I mentioned. You can see what I mean. IMO, $9 for the manual is reasonable and I own the service manuals for most of my machines as they are full of adjustment, repair, and remove/replace information. Thanks for watching my channel, and good luck.
@@andytubesewing1953 Thanks for the response. I came to the same conclusions. I'll spray some WD-40 in there and hope that that will free the knob and I'll clean later with alcohol. The knob has been there for 40+ years. Thanks again. Albert
@@albertkeller3405 Best of luck, Albert.
Hi Andy. I used your video for tensioning before and found it really helpful. I seem to have problems again even after rebuilding the tensioner. I can’t seem to get enough tension on the machine, the bottom thread is always loose (so top thread not tight enough?). I don’t know if I need new parts? Everything seems to be really tight in the tensioner and the uptake spring isn’t moving. I have fiddled loads and no progress. I wondered if you had any advice? Thanks in advance. Glenn
What is the Make and Model of the machine, please? Were you able to do a normal Zero Out Setting? For needle thread tension two of the discs have to squeeze the thread. Usually, the tension spring (beehive spring) is what squeezes the discs together when the presser bar lever is down. If you do not have tension then what is blocking or preventing the spring from pushing the discs together? The spring first pushes on the indicator dial ( dial with the - | + on it) if the slot of the Tension Stud is damaged, like bent or squeezed together a little, the spring can't push the indicator dial into the discs to squeeze the thread. I assume you removed all the thread and reran the thread from spool to needle.
Thanks for the quick reply.
The model is a singer 338.
The take up spring just does not spring! I followed everything in your video. I think somehow the spring is damaged. The centre of the small circle does not line up with the centre of the big circle, so when I put it on the pin it’s angled down. I made my profile picture a photo of the spring, to help explain, but it may be too small.
Do you have any other ideas or also think this is the issue? I wonder how I caused this to happen? It was working fine before.
If that is the problem, would you have any suggestions of where best to pick one up? I’m in Canada.
And your videos are so helpful, you explain things amazingly well and clearly! Thank you so much!
@@glennhaines6162 Interesting that it worked fine before. So, what went wrong? Change your profile picture back. Take a look at this old video of mine and see if that helps. ruclips.net/video/JqauIOWs9CI/видео.html If it does not help then just email me at andytube53@gmail.com as resolving this is not a good use of the comment section. You can include any pictures and/or videos you like and maybe explain what you mean by your small circle/big circle statement. BTW, the last time I encountered this the small loop on the spring that is put on the stud last had one edge of the loop INSIDE the slot of the stud... oops! Good luck, Glenn.
Thank you so much!
Very welcome 😀
Andy, I've got a Singer clone, Japanese made, from the 60s. I just received a new pick up spring, and a new beehive spring.
I don't have the fancy thread guard, and a couple other handy pieces that come in this assembly. Is it possible to get a little more info from you?
I've never worked on a singer clone but if you can tell me which Singer Model Number your machines is a copy of I may have a tension video for that. As far as parts go I do not have them or sell them. I have read that many of the Japanese clones were so exact that the original Singer parts work well on them. I buy parts online for eBay mostly, and thriftyfarmgirl.com Thanks for watching my channel.
Thanks for the great instructions, Andy. The tensioner on my 413 works, but doesn't disengage when the presser foot is lifted. I noticed that the "bar" of the plastic +/- indicator that fits in the stud slot is broken off. Could that be the cause? I looks to me like that rod pushes against it to realease pressure on the discs; I don't see anything else in there for it to push against. Is that correct?
You understand correctly. The Tension Releasing Pin is pushed against the bar of the indicator dial which pushes back the Tension Spring releasing pressure on the Tension Discs. A common problem after Singer changed to plastic dials from metal.
Some viewers have glued a new plastic. metal, or wood bar back into place. That works but usually requires shortening the Tension Pin. Other viewers don't want to bother and just replace the whole tension assembly with one that will work on their model www.singeronline.com/teas4.html
@@andytubesewing1953 Thank you for confirming. What a cheesy arrangement! I think I'll try repairing it before replacing. I assume that, if needed, I can pull the pin out the front with a magnet?
Plastic (this, and the vertical drive gear) is certainly the nemesis of this machine... it seems pretty solid otherwise.
@@JohnBau Yes, other than those two it is a very solid machine. It's very versatile. A magnet might work on the pen since the pin is steel. Sometimes the dust on it will keep it from sliding out. You can also just tilt the machine forward and tap on the back of the arm and you can even push the pin out from the back side because there's a hole in the back of the stud One viewer I know had a little bit of epoxy left from a project and you roll the tiny tube of it and flattened it in there and he said it worked good
@@andytubesewing1953 Hmmm, ok... I don't get the 'flattened epoxy' thing. Since pressure is applied to the rear of the indicator, I'm thinking a small metal piece glued in place across the hole and flush with the back of it would be best.
BTW, the replacement tensioner appears to have two discs, i.e. single thread...
@@JohnBau No worries, just epoxy shaped into a flat "bar" like the plastic one. I'm sure you'll make what you need. Take care.
Thank you for this thorough explanation! It's so helpful. I have a question I'm hoping you could help me with? I have a Singer 5107 with a broken tension assembly. The metal cylinder piece that goes in the hole and holds the assembly in the machine is cracked and crumbling. I bought a replacement assembly and removed the tension assembly and screw that holds it in, however, the metal cylinder is stuck. Any ideas how to remove it so I can put the new assembly in? I've tried triflow, pliers (metal crumbled), and chiseling it out but it is stuck.
Sorry, Brittany, I can't help you with this model. It's too new for me to have worked on. Very few earlier Singer models have that type of metal barrel that holds the tension assembly. Does it fit into a metal frame? Or just a plastic frame? Usually, on much older models, the barrel stays in place and the stud with the parts attached is removed. I don't have a clue as to why the metal barrel is cracking and crumbling. On models where the stud is stuck into the metal body, I have had some luck using heat from a hairdryer or heat gun to help get it free.
@@andytubesewing1953 I've never thought of using a heat gun. Great idea! Before I could attempt it, my husband said he'd just drill out the old metal piece. Now it's ready for a new tension assembly. Thanks so much for your help! I'm a collector of mostly Japanese class 15 clones and this is my first Singer. I'll keep the heating gun idea in mind for future stuck pieces :)
@@brittanys6814 Good job Mr. Brittany! You're all set then. I hope you'll try another Singer in the future. Something older and better made. Take Care.
There is no screw to undo on my singer 201k- any advice on how to get the first part off?
The 201 tension unit is even easier to remove. This video for tension on a 221 is better for you b/c it has the same tension unit as your 201. The disassembly starts at 55:00 of the video: ruclips.net/video/enSTxxzqy4s/видео.html You may like to download a FREE copy of the Instruction Manual for your 201. It has 77 pages about using your machine, and pages 26 -27 show and describe the remove & replace instructions for the tension assembly. Here is the download page at Singer Support and click on the top manual: www.singer.com/search/support?title=201 Good Luck, and thanks for watching my channel.
Hi Andy - I feel I am monopolising your attention for which I apologise sincerely. However, your help has been invaluable to me with my Singer 507. I have tried to find a solution to another problem but to no avail and once again I have turned to you. Just of late - my thread has been getting twisted round the thread spooler pin and each time I also notice that the thread on my bobbin has come out of the Apollo bobbin case and is 'lying' across the top of the bobbin spool. It is a new Apollo9 case I have recently bought - so I guess it can't be that? Unless I have to tighten/loosen the adjusting screw. I'm puzzled to what is wrong - whether it is something to do with the thread spooler or elsewhere on my machine. My tension is perfect - thanks to one of your other videos. Do you have any ideas that could possibly help me? Thank you Andy - I really appreciate the time you take to reply.
It's just too vague of a question and I can't picture the "lying across". Maybe you should try to email me andytube53@gmail.com. Send some pictures. Tell me the history of the machine with you. Have you got the instruction manual? Is the machine new to you? Are you a new sewist? I'll watch for your email today.
@@andytubesewing1953 Thank you Andy for your reply - much appreciated. I guessed it was a bit vague as it was hard to describe - sorry. I will do that - email you. Meantime, my Singer 507 was bought 45 years by me. I'm not new to sewing - I was a machinist for a while for Marks & Spencer back in the day. I have the Instruction Manual. I will wait until the problem arises again so as I can take pics - it may be a day or so. Thank you again.
@@heddybell sounds good, thanks for the updated information and we will wait for the pics and work from there