Great job Wes! Well done, & unsponsored too! These are exactly the types of videos sewing enthusiasts want to see to make a buying decision, especially on the lower priced sewing models. I, personally, would like to see comparisons and “Tear Downs”, specifically, big box brands vs dealer brands, comparable machines tested against each other, to see if the public is getting what they pay for in quality and durability, & long term expectancy. Finally, your professional opinion, and experience with issues you have seen with repairing these models at all price points. Point out the average price for particular machines, and is the cost a reasonable price for that particular machine. KEEP MAKING THESE KIND OF VIDEOS! Well done! 👍👍👍👍👍 (5 Thumbs Up) My highest review rating!
This machine has truly proven to be a work horse for me..the digitised machines don't measure up to the stitching power found in this singer analog machine. Thanks for this great review.
I repair/rebuild 300U Chain stich machines daily for a very large mattress co and I just got to say my hats off to anybody who can tear a sewing machine down to the frame and reassemble it. With the end result being a fully functioning head.
I agree with you. I did Industrial Machines,,,and now more Domestic type,,, last time I did this in Training,,,long time ago,,,,I not doing that again,,,I worked on the 300 w. Series. Good machine,,,also the 4 needles,,,making mops with the puller feed,,,the trick is the Looper Avoiding motion timing,, eye to eye setting with needle,,and feed timing. 😀😀
I buy/sell/use vintage industrual sewing machines. These machines are a symfony of asynchronous movements, it's a bit of a mindf*ck to get the logic of the stitch cycle. I'm yet to dare tearing down a machine fully. 😂
@@michaeltexeira6185 I am curious, why you are typing commas between each phrase? Proper typing format for a pause uses commas and for a pregnant pause...a series of 3 or 4 periods. When you create a broken sentence using tons of commas as you did, your sentence becomes one big 'run on sentence.' This technique leaves your readers not knowing when to start, when to pause or when to stop. Punctuation is important to establish your pacing, a transition of thoughts 🙂 and clearly convey your intended message. I hope this helps!
After both my expensive electronic machines began having issues I started looking for something a little more basic. No more electronics. This was the best video review I've seen. I bought this not expecting to love it, but after a couple of months using it I do. It works and works well. I really noticed the difference when I was sewing over a thick spot of multiple layers. My old machine would have balked, but this little Singer sewed it with zero drama. I was always sort of a sewing machine snob. I hated my first singer so badly I returned it and wouldn't touch a Singer product. 40 years later I've finally bought another one, this one, and I love it. Thanks for all the time you put into doing this video, was a real help.
@@khughes962 thank you for taking the time to answer me! Oh dear, I'm saving up for the janome 6700p at the moment and would one day love to own their m7 continental. Hopefully I won't have any problems
Oh I agree, digital machines are a pain in the you know what... However, I disagree that the Singer Heavy Duty would be the better alternative. At least not a sustainable nor cost-effective alternative. Horizontal hook and bobbin assemblies just don't mix well with heavy duty work. Especially with those plastic pieces in the hook area. A more sustainable solution (and actually cheaper as well...) is to look for a vintage mechanic machine with a vertical hook and metal bobbin case and metal bobbins. They just stand the tear and wear of heavy duty work better. And less tear and wear means less issues with timing. My oldest machine is a 1943 Bernina 121 (but basically any mechanic machine with a vertical hook from before the seventies to mid-seventies depending on brand will do) and that machine is less troublesome than the Singer Heavy Duty machines soms of my friends work with. Just for reference... I paid €45 for that machine. I also have a 1972 Bernina 830 record and that jewel cost me €50. Of course, when buying such a vintage machine you need to spend some extra money to have them serviced by a pro. But that still makes them cheaper than a new Singer Heavy Duty. And they will probably will still sew way after I'm gone (and I'm just 44 yo).
This is very helpful. I've owned a 60 year old heavy duty Singer 328k for the last 50 years. and it's never given me a moment's trouble. I just ordered a Singer heavy duty 4452 and hope it does as well.
I read a lot of reviews, before buying this machine, two years ago. I have owned numerous machines of all makes over the years. I like this machine. I'm glad I chose it. I chose a manual specifically to be able to maintain it myself. I have done some oiling and cleaning on it, but after watching this video, I will do more. I'm very thankful for your video. I mostly make fancy doll clothes.
I use old machines that I fix up both straight stitch and treadle machines and I have one brand new singer start with five I believe different patterns and that is enough for me plus my Japanese r i c c a r with a live zigzag bobbin 1950 66 singer I've noticed the Japanese machines out of the '70s and '60s are very well made
Is the foot higher on this machine to accommodate thicker fabric? My daughter has a basic machine and you can barely fit a few layers of thin cotton. Any info would be helpful
Great point you make about oiling this machine. Compared to my 1952 Singer, oiling this modern Singer seems a tedious task. There are no oiling holes? Wow! What is Singer thinking? I expect dismantling to be only necessary for re-calibration or a thorough cleaning, not minor oiling. Your video is very illuminating. Thanks!
Thank you so much for this video. I bought this machine about a year ago and I've had no issues at all from lightweight to heavy and it sews like a champ. I have a 30 year old Viking Prisma and it beats it even for lightweight fabric. A friend recommended it to me since I sew just about everything from clothing to quilts and this little machine works great.
Do you still have it? If so how's it working? I want to get into sewing never really done much of it but I hope to do denim and lightweight fabrics once I get better, would it be worth it?
@@historymatters8991 I use my machine almost daily. I made several gifts for Christmas, from lightweight pillow cases to heavy canvas tote bags and I didn't have any issues at all.
Cool. Thanks. for sharing. I also have a Husquarna Prisma (later named Viking) electronic. Do you oil the Singer as he recommended in this video? How often should that be done?
Thank you I bought one yesterday and learning how to use it for the purpose of fixing my sailboats sunbrella enclosure. I feel encouraged now that it will do the job. God Bless You.
So they say, but it’s a marketing ploy. Fabric glides over plastic just fine. The feed moves the fabric, it’s hardiness is more important than a fancy steel contact paper bit.
@@elizabethclaiborne6461 Pins eventually mar up and catch up plastic bed plates, and they're molded plastic, so they can't be replaced. The little scratches and catches eventually prevents your materials from gliding smoothly. Anyone who has both an old machine with a metal bed and one with a plastic bed, and has used them often, learns this. It's not a marketing ploy, it's functional and can be replaced, unlike damaged molded plastic.
WOW This is the first time I have watched one of your videos ... it will not be the last! I am a researcher. It will take me 6 months of research to make a decision, but when I do, it will be A GOOD DECISION. You just saved me 6 months. You are so precise and thorough, I am ready to buy. Please stay true because we need honest, unbiased reviewers like you
Great review. That was my first machine. I had it for 4 years and just this week upgraded to a Janome with auto thread cutter and so many other upgrades. I will always love this singer and highly recommend it to a beginner to sewing. Thank you for sharing scripture too. God bless!
Hi Wes!!! I bought my machine a year ago and to be honest, I never thought that this machine were so fantastic !!! I can’t tell how much fabric I sewed, and she still like brand new. I make sure to do the maintenance every month to keep it in shape. Now, after saw your video, I love my machine so much more. Thanks buddy for all effort you put in your work, I appreciate it greatly. THANKS A LOT!!!!!!!!!
@@geezermann7865 Ever heard of this search engine called Google? Try writing "hooded towel" (with quotes) to the search bar and click "Images" to see lots of examples. It's a towel with a hood for head so that the towel keeps little children warmer.
Its 2 years later and I bought one of these. I did not use it for some time. When I did the bobbin kept grabbing and breaking the thread. Im sure its me because Im not familiar with the machine. The video really helps me. I was worried about my machine being frail but obviously I dont have to worry too much. Thank you so much for leaving this up.
I have had my Singer Heavy Duty a couple of years and love it. Your video really explained how it works very nicely..thank you ! I'm glad I bought mine ! Your videos are great !!
I'm new to sewing. I bought my Singer 4423HD about 3 years ago. I've sewn many western shirts, blue jeans and even leather cellphone cases with this machine! I've also repaired nylon winch and tow straps (using the proper needles and thread of course!). I've had a chance to use a few sewing machines and I must say this Singer makes the best straight stitches of all. Since I have no need to do embroidery or other fancy stitches, this little analog machine has served me well! I am diligent about changing my needles and keeping my machine oiled and cleaned. As you pointed out, no need to remove all covers to reach the necessary maintenance points. Good job and thanks for the great video!
Broski, your video totally solidified any doubts I had about my recent purchase as I am proud to own a serviceable machine these days. Hats off to singer & the crew that makes this channel possible! Cheers!
Your fantastic in depth videos are exactly what sewists of any level of experience need. For beginners to start their journey with a healthy knowledge of maintenance can only be a good thing, as well as giving them the confidence to sew without fear of the unknown. I have successfully stripped my Brother FS130QC, (that I've had for many, many years) cleaned, oiled, and reassembled to full working order, and I have you to thank for that.
Thank you Wes for the in-depth review of this machine. I bought this exact model in February and REALLY like it. I'm glad to know that the machine truly is a heavy duty one!
Thank your for the information. I have been using this machine for years and love it. I also have a $6000.00 Viking electronic embroidery machine that has cost me many hundreds of dollars for maintenance and for a power supply. It needed another power supply a year after the last one was replaced. (Which I have not replaced. And yes, it is on a surge protector.) It now sits on the floor in my sewing room. The Singer is constantly used and works fine. Thank you for letting me know how to oil it. Update - I just finished cleaning and oiling my Singer Heavy Duty. Thank you so much for saving me a lot of money.
This is by a large margin the best sewing machine review video I ever came across. Dense information, conveyed in a minimum of time - excellent use of bandwidth 😉 Being a fan of old Berninas (105, 114, 117 K&L) and Singers (206G and 316G) which I love for their indestructible sturdiness, smooth operations (specifically the Berninas with their rotating hook 🥰) and absence of plastic (except for the 316G's fashion discs - what were they thinking when constructing it?) I was considering something more modern and back friendly when lugging it around. You answered practically all my questions with regards to the Singer 4432 HD in one go and gave me confidence that I would not waste my money on one (being ~ 10 times more expensive than what I usually pay for my old beauties). Excellent job, one follower deserved and gained 😅 ... please keep up the great work!
I’m so glad I watched this video on Singer Heavy Duty machines. I just bought a second-hand Singer HD. It ha been serviced and seems to sew well. Now that I’ve seen your video, I am especially pleased with my purchase. Thanks for all the great info.
My mum has used her 201k for over 50 years! It was 13 years old when she bought it. It doesn't say HEAVY DUTY on the side, isn't made from plastic and is 100 times better made than this awful looking plastic machine. You made the right choice!
I love the vintage sewing machines I have three vintage Singer sewing machines and I can’t tell you how happy I am to have such beautiful machines again vintage sewing machines are the best to have.
EXCELLENT ! Much more detailed than I expected . I rebuild small air compressors and appreciate your showing the individual parts within the Singer . Nice to know before making a purchase that this will probably do the job. I don't have the experience in using a machine as does Tracy , but ..... here goes ! Good job !
interesting Im curious about that is there frabric parts in those compressors? was thinking hoses maybe or dust filters what would involve sewing to rebuild that
Thank you for taking the time to breakdown and explain through your knowledge of the mechanics of the machine. I'm a newer machine sewer (with a few hand sewing projects under my belt) and am hoping to purchase a machine that will last through a wide variety of projects (home and clothing). I've been debating between a used singer heavy duty or waiting to snag an older, all-metal sewing maching. This is definitely super informative and helps me be more informed as I figure out my options.
I have been sewing for 60 years and had Swiss made steel machines for many years. I also had industrial steel sewing machines. Never had problems and I didn't even have the money to service them, cleaning and oil. Moved and had to sell them. Bought a electronic Bernina, not made in Switzerland, but somewhere in the east and plastic and spent £600 on a peace of rubbish. It is so light that when you sew it moves and all those unnecessary stitches, I feel sorry for young people who want to get sewing because the modern machines are just a load of plastic. Even this Singer heavy duty, just doesn't sound like a well made steel machine. The old steel machines like the Elna su star and the Bernina 730 are just a cut above and you still find them on internet and they are still in great demand. I am looking for one right now. Good luck, but be careful.
Looks more well-built than I expected. Those gears on the motor shaft usually have a hex head set screw and motor shafts are pretty much universal so you can switch it as long as the relative position from where the motor mounts is the same. Very nice for a modern machine but I'll stick with the Pfaff 130-6 that I beefed up significantly.
The belt is called a toothed belt operating on the toothed pulley on the motor. They have exceptional life expectancy and transfer power better than traditional gears and shafts in the older machines.
This! The power is transmitted via tooth instead of via friction. If the belt is properly made, it should last at least a couple of thousands hours on max load. Typically these belts are allergic to any kind of oil, though, so be careful not to drop any oil on either belt. Otherwise the belt might detoriate pretty fast (the oil damages the belt via chemical reaction so the detoriation happens by calendar instead of by use from this moment forwards).
My mom had a singer from 70 something that broke 3 decades later and I remember her trying out 3 or 4 machines with no luck. I snagged one of these and she loved it. Great machine.
Thanks for this. I was watching videos on how to use this bugger and stumbled across yours. I think I made an OK choice. I bought mine at Walmart and just need something that will hold up to everyday type sewing. I doubt I'll ever need to sew more than 3 layers of leather! I love that mine has the needle threader. What a treat after all these years of threading sewing machine needles. I'm saving this for when I need to oil the beast. Without spending a fortune I think this is as close to what I learned to sew on back in the 1970s - no real bells and whistles to cause problems. Again, thank you!
I have one of these. I accidentally sewed through the metal head of a safety pin with it. Literally punched the needle right through it. So I guess it's pretty heavy duty. My only complaint is the plastic housing above the needle is very cumbersome. All of my machines before this one were Singer Touch & Sews, so I'm used to the area around the needle being open and easy to access.
I ordered one and sent it back because the outer cover was too clunky and hard to get my hand in the needle and foot area and I don't like the drop in bobbin, I did get another Singer the m3330 Making the Cut It's just cute , and works fine but not heavy duty,
Thank you for doing this video. I needed to know if this machine was heavy duty. I have this machine and I do like the way it works. Not knowing enough about sewing machines left me kind of doubting if it was heavy duty. Happy about the results.
Thank you so much! I really appreciate your video. Im currently looking to replace my sewing machine, i was hesitant to buy this machine to begin with, because of few video reviews i saw on youtube. Mostly because of the plstic exterior. Nobody does a depth investigation and review like you did. This is very helpful and fair review, and im so grateful to find your channel. From the bottom of my heart, im thanking you very much.
Great video. My in laws bought me this machine a few years ago so I could repair denim and heavy work clothes. From my experience this machine is a real workhorse. After watching this I can see why and I will make sure to open it up and maintain it well.
Thank you for this review. I had seen a sewing content maker criticize it as being in repair shops a lot & that Singer isn’t same quality since it’s changed owners. I’ve been very happy with mine, and the only times where stitch knotting or tangle happened got fixed by adjusting tension and stitch length.
I’ve been thinking of getting one of these but was wondering how heavy duty together it was. I have to say your video has sold it. Editing to add that this is the first time I’ve been able to sit through a longish video like this and not be bored to scrubbing forward. Your information is clear, concise, and engaging. Thank you for that.
I'm right there with you. I've been delaying and can't believe my dumb luck to run into this. I want to be able to sew sunbrella and some leather. It is not going to be enough to justify an expensive machine. Now I can feel ok spending a reasonable amount. Liked and subscribed.
Appreciate your videos! So thorough! Especially thankful for this one and other peoples comments! Hope to get years of service and many projects done with this one.
I just purchased this machine from the Singer web site and I'm waiting for it to be delivered. They were having a Labor Day sale, so I snatched it up for $223, and that includes tax. I'm a novice at sewing, so I started off with an inexpensive Singer Start 1304. After 2 months, my projects have become more than this beginner machine can handle, so I had to kick it up a notch and purchase the heavy duty machine. Thanks for the review. It makes me more confident that I made the right decision in the purchase of this model.
Me encanto ya me la compré esta pero la 4423 parece q es la misma lo q las diferencia son la cantidad de puntadas espero todo salga muy bién gracias bendiciones Dios me de mucho conocimiento por medio de usted saludos desde COSTA RICA 🙏
Great job! I like seeing how a machine is constructed. I'm not impressed with the amount of plastic and plastic tab snap together body, but it's likely built better than most modern machines. I guess they've got to cut corners somewhere. TFS
Excellent review, thank you for the in-depth break down. I have this machine and like it. Gets the job done and versatile for its price point. It is still too plastic compared to what Singer used to manufacture. Everything is produced to lower costs as much as possible sacrificing long term quality. They just won't last 20+ years as the older models. Plastic gears/parts lasting 'a little bit' doesn't cut it - it wears down over time. 'Plastic' and 'gears' should not be in the same sentence. I bought a used 80's vintage Singer machine with a dozen basic stitches, is built like a tank, and even where plastic casing is used is hard and beefy compared to my 4452. No plastic gears, all metal-on-metal mechanics. If the timing becomes an issue, I can fix it. Cleaned and oiled it runs as new. My friend still uses the family's 1960's vintage Singer which works as well as it did brand new. Occasional cleaning/oiling and it keeps going. High quality.
I love your vídeos, thank you so much for your patience, time and good humor. I would love to learn how to desassemble, oiling and greasing a Singer Heavy Duty 6800c. I hope one day in the future I will learn with you. God bless your heart.
This was the video I have been looking for! I bought one of these machines on Black Friday sale a few years ago on Amazon and hate to say how much cause they really came up in price! I originally bought it thinking if I killed it it would be less than repairing my beloved (now vintage) Pfaff creatives (1472 & 1472CD) to sew heavier projects cause I know my baby’s limits! Well, almost 6 years later it’s not died and I and anyone I loan it out to have become big fans of this machine. I take it to sewing get togethers (when we could get together) because it is lighter weight than my Pfaff 1472. It’s not fussy with tension and honestly I’ve barley messed with the tension from lightweight chiffon to Sunbrella. The stitch length is a big one to increase for heavier items. If I were still teaching sewing I’d use/recommended this machine. Now, I have used it on multiple layers of denim for an art exhibition and it did a good 95% well. If I could get it under the needle it sewed it. Don’t break needles as much as getting stuck. But you do have to watch out for the darn presser foot (which I hate) as I find it’s easy to get hung up on something. I’ve done boat Bimini’s on it. Well, let’s say it was NOT enjoyable doing 2-4 layers of Sunbrella but again. It didn’t die. When my man wanted his vinyl Dodger windows replaced I told him I did need an actual industrial machine. I could try a sample but they don’t have the muscle to get through some marine fabrics. Now, overall. I do love this machine. Does she have as beautiful of stitch as the vintage Singer 95? No. But the 95 is hard to beat. I’ve had friends want to buy it but she’s a keeper! Oh, that actually might be another good video. Test a Singer 95 against the heavy duty. Another repair person told me the 95’s were the strongest domestic machines ever made. If you couldn’t see it on them, you need an industrial. I’ve got one and it’s a little tank. I’d also love to see a Sailrite review (haven’t checked your other video yet but will now)! We bought one for the Dodger window project and it made such a difference that they turned out so nice, I volunteered to do the rest of his windows! And I HATE marine sewing!!! But man, that machine had the muscle to get through those layers like nobody’s business. Mine won’t win any speed contests (think you can get a monster wheel or table setup) but it’s not about speed but the muscle to get through some nasty layers (2 vinyl and up to 4-5 Sunbrella) all without a gruff.
Thank you very much for taking the time for this video. As other people said, we are trying to get a better machine, as a heavy duty that can sew several layers of vinyl and others. I was watching some videos about the ST371HD from brother, it will be very interesting if you could show us in the same way if it is a real heavy duty. The brother has the possibility to lift the needle bar a little more than the singer and the other domestics so it will be important if this comparison could be done. I'm sorry if my english is not so well, I'm from México city, thank you very much
Excellent video! I am currently shopping for a heavy duty machine for some upholstery work and I am so glad I watched your video. I was really excited to see the tear down and where the machine needed to be oiled.
Excellent review. Thank you. Would be great if you looked under the hood of other machines too. It was great to see where the secret screws are! I tried to strip my pfaff but couldn’t get case off. And you can’t clean the tensions discs with it on. But you’ve given me an idea now !
40 HRC isn't soft. The Rockwell hardness C scale goes from 20 - 75. 4140 medium alloy steel normalizes to ~ 30 HRC. 4130 alloy steel normalizes below 20. If it attracts a magnet the metal is steel.
40 HRC will scratch even some mildly hardened steels. Your kit is for hardened steels only. The chasis is not zamak, but it's not pure aluminum either. It's made of silumin, composition of aluminum, sillicone and additives. It can containt up to 25% sillicone, which is basically sand and is dirt cheap, so silumin is cheaper than pure aluminum, but it's also slightly stronger at the cost of greatly reduced plasticity. You can't bend silumin or it will break.
Great video!! It's good to know there are some modern models that can be maintained without breaking all of the plastic that holds them together. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you so very much for this information. I’ve been debating for two months on whether to purchase the Brother or Singer Heavy Duty mechanical machine. Yours is the one that helped me the final decision. Singer it is. ,,,,,, I think 🤔 😁 🤣
I'm considering buying one of these, so I'm glad to see that it's intended to be maintained, but I naively assumed that all machines would be! Terrible that any manufacturer would make machines without easy access for basic oiling. Though having said that, I don't see any maintenance instructions in the manual for this one, other than how to change a needle, which is hardly "maintenance"! Lucky there's youtube. Thanks for the comprehensive teardown! :)
Hi West, thank you for showing this video, it is so nice to see the inside of this machine and how it is put together, you do a great job of showing this, Please post the Ten commandments on your bible bar, nothing in the bible is more important to remember than those, in my opinion.
I bought the Singer Scholastic 5523 in 2016 and it works amazing...it’s my go to machine...much better than my $4600 Brother Duetta Sewing Embroidery machine...you can hear the difference when sewing...
Very interesting and informative and also great video presentation. Not in the market for a machine like this, but would feel comfortable recommending the model next time someone asks. I'll also recommend your video! IMO this would be a great starter machine for anyone with little or no experience. Thank you!
Thank you so much for this review. Very impressed with your skill, method and presentation. My hobby grew to a small business size, and I now do lots of curtains. Mostly hand finishing, but the pleats are giving me grief. 2 plies of heavy damask or thick wool. lining, interlining and buckram - the sheer bulk of it is difficult to get under the foot, not to mention sew through, even though it is not as challenging as leather or canvas. Do you feel that this machine would be a suitable all-rounder, for the curtains but also for "normal" sewing? If not, could you be kind to recommend some machine models under 800$/500£? Maybe vintage? Does such a beast even exist? Thank you very much in advance!
Thank you for this review! I have had my eye on this machine for quite some time. My sister owns one and loves it. But I’ve been a Singer lover since the mid 1960’s and own a 1963 T&S with all metal gears. That machine, is what I would call heavy duty for a home machine. It’s gone back and forth across the US four times, with all but one time in a car. The fourth time, it fell off a conveyor belt while being loaded onto a plane. And it’s still running. I think the term “heavy duty” by today’s standards means that it’s not all plastic. Cheap soft metal, sure, but no plastic.
Great Video. I own a 4452 & I learned A LOT from your video. We are a small ( at this time ) startup company & we're using this machine. We are sewing terry cloth, vinyl, & pet screening. So far, the machine is holding up well, but ? This video has given me the confidence to go inside for R&R. Thanks !!!!
Great review. I've seen 2 of your other trouble shooting vids. Am a new subscriber now! Cheers from NZ P.s...if you do a part 2 ...could you inc. a vid of you actually oiling the bearings, felts & pivot points where you'd expect to maintain, as well as the places to clean out lint/dust - to keep machines running for years.
There's also thin felt pads on either side of the motor bearings inside the motor plates with holes in them. Most people miss this. Maybe some shops. Must be careful only to add a very little bit.
Amazing what heavy duty means these days for all kinds of machines. Soft metal, plastic gears, plastic covers. Even someone has to disassemble it, so the customer can see if it is actually good and repairable. Heavy duty now means that it is barely good enough, instead of actually be strong and reliable for many years.
Gears are only as strong as their weakest link. Plastic dry rots with time and exposure to heat. Common sense will tell you that this machine will not hold up like a machine with all metal gears. I like the experiment and professional opinion and it does sew nicely, but I'll keep my tried and true vintage, all metal, heavy as heck, all metal machines.
Some modern plastics are more wear-resistant than metal. Also, plastic details are often intentionally engineered to break break to protect more expensive parts from damage when something goes wrong.
@@lordsgirl1123 my vintage singer just broke down and there are no repair shops near me. Idk even what’s wrong with it. 💔 I just bought a new singer and I miss my old one. I still have her hopefully someday I can figure out what’s wrong.
Nice comprehensive review. I have repeatedly had to reset the timing for my customers who own these machines. Yes, they have good torque however often times rather than breaking a needle the gear driving the hook slips on the shaft. This happens with as little as 20 hours of use. For this reason alone I advise customers to consider alternative machines.
Great Job! good info....about this Machine ..I own one and was wondering about the authenticity ...and truthfulness about its being called a "heavy duty" machine!
Thank you for this indepth review. I just bought this machine and I am pleased that I now know how to maintain it a bit beyond the basics. I am also pleased with my purchase now that I know that it does pass muster with testing you shared. I have a Juki Industrial machine but I wanted this one to be able to sew knits at a faster production and to be able to use a double needle. I also purchased a walking foot attachment for it and will be interested to see how it works.
Great review Wes, thank you. What I really valued was that your opinions are backed up by data and hard facts. I love watching reviews but sometimes they're just subjective opinions (which is fine), but the real value is in data. Look forward to seeing more from you. Incidentally, it wouldn't bother me to know you'd taken a machine on loan for a review - it's whether your audience believes you objectivity. Kind regards from North Wales UK
this is the best. I volunteer for snowball express by Gary sinese foundation. We bought 20 of these machines and for 6 days a year they run for 8 to 12 hours. We are putting patches on leather vests with either a free motion foot or a regular foot. They run like champs. between the 2 day and the next 4 they get a spa treatment. I knew they were an okay machine, until I saw this video I wasn't sure we had made the right choice. The only problem we have come across is all of a sudden they start acting up. breaking needles, thread and in general just being a pain. Going through all the troubleshooting I knew I noticed a rough spot just at the point where the thread goes around the bottom of the right bottom and catching. Changed out the bobbin casing and it went right back to sewing perfect. such an easy fix. just took me hours to figure out. welll done video. I learned a great deal. thank you,
Absolutely the MOST In-depth Review and pleasant to listen to! You've given me assurance that this model would be a good buy for me and I appreciate that. You are a good teacher/demonstrator and your camera work is excellent! So thank you, I'm subscribing and I hope your channel blooms and grows :) Surely Singer should sponsor your singer videos.
This was really good. I got to use one of these machines when a relative asked me to repair it. I thought maybe the timing was out of adjustment but it turns out the needle was damaged. Replaced the needle and it worked fine. It works fine but I have a Singer 301 and would never trade.
If I may make a video suggestion, I would like to see a video about servicing a few common modern machines, specifically the brother SE400/600, and its embroidery only counterpart, the PE770/800. I have noticed that these machines are very popular online, but little (quality) content exists on repairing or maintaining these machines, especially for common problems or adjustments. The only such detailed videos I can recall are those from Vince J Auri, who seems to know a lot about the machines, but has poor filming and editing. I think that is a good opportunity to attract some serious long term views for your channel.
Excellent video Wes. I am a sewing machine mechanic and I have always wondered how heavy duty the singer heavy duty really was. This video definitely shows that it is made pretty well. I just wish Singer had made the outside a little less boring.
My daughter in-law, who is architect, likes the outside design. She likes the clean, straight lines and loves the grey/red colour. Too many sewing machines look girly.
@@c.a.savage5689 - I used one the other day. I like the look and know it is a good machine for the money based on what the reviews say. It can probably do everything I need. I still don't like it and decided to not buy it. It felt cheaply made and four pounds too light in contrast to my old machines. It did not feel (!) heavy duty.
@@my_dear_friend_ I suppose it depends on what one is accustomed to, and needs. My mother had a heavy metal Singer in a walnut cabinet from the 1930s. It sewed just fine, but l didn't want it under any circumstances. I have a portable Spanish-made, enamel-on-metal body, Refrey 612 from 1991 that l love, but that's not available in England. Our choice was the Singer Heavy Duty 4411 for our daughter in-law who is just learning to sew. The motor is a little too fast for me, but the weight is fine, the sewing very stable and the follow-up after service and assistance, excellent.
@@c.a.savage5689 - I am sure the 4411 is great. I almost bought the 4423 I was looking at. Hard to go wrong with the heavy duty models. The sewing speed would be a concern I share with you. I am in no hurry.
Hi- Thanks for another great video! At exactly 12:50 in the video your finger is pointing at a metal piece next to the bearing, that has what appears to be 2 small felts. There is a 3rd felt in the part behind that metal piece. Are they to be oiled, and if so how much?
Grateful for the review. I will want to sew long stretches of sheepskins, in addition to denim etc. So far this is my favourite to see if it works. Your review hasn’t unearthed anything that puts me straight off that idea.
Nice anything with the belt , is a (sprocket )thank you for doing this Gears run together but something with a belt with her tooth or not is a pulley or sprocket depending on whether it has teeth different animal...
The owner is supposed to remove the top regularly on any machine to oil it, think monthly. You don’t want to take the back off all the time, it’ll wind up breaking.
I remove the top on mine to oil it when needed and no problem breaking anything. I believe you missed a screw in front of cover where take up lever is housed prior to lifting off top with that yellow thing. It should easily just lift off without any force. But great video and review, Wes!! You’re the best!!
Wow. I learned a lot today and Thank You so much for your thorough and well-planned teardown. I am looking at buying one of these machines but came across your video, so it confirms that I should go ahead. I was given a branded leather belt that needs repair and I need a heavy-duty machine to do it or a leather awl. After watching your video, I think this machine would be a good investment. I watch lots of DIY videos and want to congratulate you. I think your presentation skills are top-notch because: - You focus on the product, rather than always being in front of the camera. - Your speech is clear, with a smooth flow and volume. - You cover all aspects of the machine including materials, construction as well as needles. - You know what you are talking about and give tips that help owners of this machine to maintain them. - It was helpful to know what tools are required to use. - Most of all > You are sincere! I have subscribed to your channel and look forward to new videos. Great job!
Great job Wes! Well done, & unsponsored too! These are exactly the types of videos sewing enthusiasts want to see to make a buying decision, especially on the lower priced sewing models.
I, personally, would like to see comparisons and “Tear Downs”,
specifically, big box brands vs dealer brands, comparable machines tested against each other, to see if the public is getting what they pay for in quality and durability, & long term expectancy.
Finally, your professional opinion, and experience with issues you have seen with repairing these models at all price points. Point out the average price for particular machines, and is the cost a reasonable price for that particular machine.
KEEP MAKING THESE KIND OF VIDEOS!
Well done!
👍👍👍👍👍
(5 Thumbs Up)
My highest review rating!
Thanks for the feedback! I'll need to save up for a while to get a dealer brand machine, but definitely watch for that on a future video.
Sewing Machine Repair Guy If I could help, I would! Gl buddy, keep up the good work!
@@SewingMachineRepairGuy If you do, please break down the Janome HD9. I'd be very interested to see that. Thank you.
What oil would you use?
This machine has truly proven to be a work horse for me..the digitised machines don't measure up to the stitching power found in this singer analog machine. Thanks for this great review.
I repair/rebuild 300U Chain stich machines daily for a very large mattress co and I just got to say my hats off to anybody who can tear a sewing machine down to the frame and reassemble it. With the end result being a fully functioning head.
I agree with you. I did Industrial Machines,,,and now more Domestic type,,, last time I did this in Training,,,long time ago,,,,I not doing that again,,,I worked on the 300 w. Series. Good machine,,,also the 4 needles,,,making mops with the puller feed,,,the trick is the Looper Avoiding motion timing,, eye to eye setting with needle,,and feed timing. 😀😀
I buy/sell/use vintage industrual sewing machines. These machines are a symfony of asynchronous movements, it's a bit of a mindf*ck to get the logic of the stitch cycle. I'm yet to dare tearing down a machine fully. 😂
@@Farmfield
@@michaeltexeira6185 I am curious, why you are typing commas between each phrase? Proper typing format for a pause uses commas and for a pregnant pause...a series of 3 or 4 periods.
When you create a broken sentence using tons of commas as you did, your sentence becomes one big 'run on sentence.' This technique leaves your readers not knowing when to start, when to pause or when to stop. Punctuation is important to establish your pacing, a transition of thoughts 🙂 and clearly convey your intended message. I hope this helps!
After both my expensive electronic machines began having issues I started looking for something a little more basic. No more electronics. This was the best video review I've seen. I bought this not expecting to love it, but after a couple of months using it I do. It works and works well. I really noticed the difference when I was sewing over a thick spot of multiple layers. My old machine would have balked, but this little Singer sewed it with zero drama. I was always sort of a sewing machine snob. I hated my first singer so badly I returned it and wouldn't touch a Singer product. 40 years later I've finally bought another one, this one, and I love it. Thanks for all the time you put into doing this video, was a real help.
Hi, may I ask what your expensive machines were? Thank you
@@missj6923 both were Janome. It’s a good brand, but expensive to repair in my area.
@@khughes962 thank you for taking the time to answer me! Oh dear, I'm saving up for the janome 6700p at the moment and would one day love to own their m7 continental. Hopefully I won't have any problems
Pls may I know the model of this machine
Oh I agree, digital machines are a pain in the you know what... However, I disagree that the Singer Heavy Duty would be the better alternative. At least not a sustainable nor cost-effective alternative. Horizontal hook and bobbin assemblies just don't mix well with heavy duty work. Especially with those plastic pieces in the hook area. A more sustainable solution (and actually cheaper as well...) is to look for a vintage mechanic machine with a vertical hook and metal bobbin case and metal bobbins. They just stand the tear and wear of heavy duty work better. And less tear and wear means less issues with timing. My oldest machine is a 1943 Bernina 121 (but basically any mechanic machine with a vertical hook from before the seventies to mid-seventies depending on brand will do) and that machine is less troublesome than the Singer Heavy Duty machines soms of my friends work with. Just for reference... I paid €45 for that machine. I also have a 1972 Bernina 830 record and that jewel cost me €50. Of course, when buying such a vintage machine you need to spend some extra money to have them serviced by a pro. But that still makes them cheaper than a new Singer Heavy Duty. And they will probably will still sew way after I'm gone (and I'm just 44 yo).
I just bought this machine prior to watching this. I like the edit and angles. No fluff just good info.
This is very helpful. I've owned a 60 year old heavy duty Singer 328k for the last 50 years. and it's never given me a moment's trouble. I just ordered a Singer heavy duty 4452 and hope it does as well.
How did it go? Do you like it?
I would have bought another vintage machine. There are plenty of them.
The 50 year old Singers are really good
nancycrayton - Two years later, how did your new one meet your expectations?
As an engineer who sews stuff.....this was a really informative review. thanks.
I read a lot of reviews, before buying this machine, two years ago. I have owned numerous machines of all makes over the years. I like this machine. I'm glad I chose it. I chose a manual specifically to be able to maintain it myself. I have done some oiling and cleaning on it, but after watching this video, I will do more. I'm very thankful for your video. I mostly make fancy doll clothes.
How often should it be oiled? (Hours of usage?)
Hey very interested in buying doll clothes available 4 contact?
I use old machines that I fix up both straight stitch and treadle machines and I have one brand new singer start with five I believe different patterns and that is enough for me plus my Japanese r i c c a r with a live zigzag bobbin 1950 66 singer I've noticed the Japanese machines out of the '70s and '60s are very well made
@@ballparkmom005 they should be oiled in my opinion every other day if you use them all day.
Is the foot higher on this machine to accommodate thicker fabric? My daughter has a basic machine and you can barely fit a few layers of thin cotton. Any info would be helpful
Great point you make about oiling this machine. Compared to my 1952 Singer, oiling this modern Singer seems a tedious task. There are no oiling holes? Wow! What is Singer thinking? I expect dismantling to be only necessary for re-calibration or a thorough cleaning, not minor oiling. Your video is very illuminating. Thanks!
Thank you so much for this video. I bought this machine about a year ago and I've had no issues at all from lightweight to heavy and it sews like a champ. I have a 30 year old Viking Prisma and it beats it even for lightweight fabric. A friend recommended it to me since I sew just about everything from clothing to quilts and this little machine works great.
Do you still have it? If so how's it working? I want to get into sewing never really done much of it but I hope to do denim and lightweight fabrics once I get better, would it be worth it?
@@historymatters8991 I use my machine almost daily. I made several gifts for Christmas, from lightweight pillow cases to heavy canvas tote bags and I didn't have any issues at all.
Cool. Thanks. for sharing. I also have a Husquarna Prisma (later named Viking) electronic. Do you oil the Singer as he recommended in this video? How often should that be done?
@@camc3640 Yes I do keep my machines oiled, and I still bring out the Prisma from time to time to keep it running smoothly.
Thank you I bought one yesterday and learning how to use it for the purpose of fixing my sailboats sunbrella enclosure. I feel encouraged now that it will do the job. God Bless You.
The stainless steel bed cover is to help fabric glide across the bed and withstand scratches from pins better than plastic.
So they say, but it’s a marketing ploy. Fabric glides over plastic just fine.
The feed moves the fabric, it’s hardiness is more important than a fancy steel contact paper bit.
@@elizabethclaiborne6461 Pins eventually mar up and catch up plastic bed plates, and they're molded plastic, so they can't be replaced. The little scratches and catches eventually prevents your materials from gliding smoothly. Anyone who has both an old machine with a metal bed and one with a plastic bed, and has used them often, learns this. It's not a marketing ploy, it's functional and can be replaced, unlike damaged molded plastic.
The plastic bed cover over the bobbin box on a new machine arrived broken. I kind of jimmy-rigged it but it made me cranky to see it was plastic.
@@silaslizzie43 because see-through metal doesn't exist...
hummingbirdlady11 - I am not a sewer, but I love hummingbirds. My feeders are clean and waiting for them to return.
WOW This is the first time I have watched one of your videos ... it will not be the last! I am a researcher. It will take me 6 months of research to make a decision, but when I do, it will be A GOOD DECISION. You just saved me 6 months. You are so precise and thorough, I am ready to buy. Please stay true because we need honest, unbiased reviewers like you
Great review. That was my first machine. I had it for 4 years and just this week upgraded to a Janome with auto thread cutter and so many other upgrades. I will always love this singer and highly recommend it to a beginner to sewing. Thank you for sharing scripture too. God bless!
What model Janome did you get? I’m looking at upgrading too.
@@mattr6053 Janome 4120 QDC
@@carmensalome Thanks!
Hi Wes!!! I bought my machine a year ago and to be honest, I never thought that this machine were so fantastic !!! I can’t tell how much fabric I sewed, and she still like brand new. I make sure to do the maintenance every month to keep it in shape. Now, after saw your video, I love my machine so much more. Thanks buddy for all effort you put in your work, I appreciate it greatly. THANKS A LOT!!!!!!!!!
Thank you. I had looking at this machine for a while. After this video my husband got it for me for Christmas. It is a dream to sew on!
You, sir....are the MAN!! Ripped it down, and put all the parts and pieces back together! Thank you for easing my mind with my purchase!
Makes me feel much better about my purchase. I sew a lot of hooded towels and my old Singer Future 100 just couldn't handle it anymore.
What is a hooded towel? TY.
@@geezermann7865 Ever heard of this search engine called Google? Try writing "hooded towel" (with quotes) to the search bar and click "Images" to see lots of examples. It's a towel with a hood for head so that the towel keeps little children warmer.
Its 2 years later and I bought one of these. I did not use it for some time. When I did the bobbin kept grabbing and breaking the thread. Im sure its me because Im not familiar with the machine. The video really helps me. I was worried about my machine being frail but obviously I dont have to worry too much. Thank you so much for leaving this up.
when your thread is misbehaving on this its usually the bobbin casing needs to be repleaced
I have had my Singer Heavy Duty a couple of years and love it. Your video really explained how it works very nicely..thank you ! I'm glad I bought mine ! Your videos are great !!
I'm new to sewing. I bought my Singer 4423HD about 3 years ago. I've sewn many western shirts, blue jeans and even leather cellphone cases with this machine! I've also repaired nylon winch and tow straps (using the proper needles and thread of course!). I've had a chance to use a few sewing machines and I must say this Singer makes the best straight stitches of all. Since I have no need to do embroidery or other fancy stitches, this little analog machine has served me well! I am diligent about changing my needles and keeping my machine oiled and cleaned. As you pointed out, no need to remove all covers to reach the necessary maintenance points. Good job and thanks for the great video!
Makes me very glad we still also own a 80 or 90 year old tradel machine! That baby never stops running!!!
Broski, your video totally solidified any doubts I had about my recent purchase as I am proud to own a serviceable machine these days. Hats off to singer & the crew that makes this channel possible!
Cheers!
I'm definitely making a good choice!
Outstanding review! I bought one of these machines HOPING the Singer name still stood for quality. Your effort here was enlightening, thank you!
Your fantastic in depth videos are exactly what sewists of any level of experience need. For beginners to start their journey with a healthy knowledge of maintenance can only be a good thing, as well as giving them the confidence to sew without fear of the unknown. I have successfully stripped my Brother FS130QC, (that I've had for many, many years) cleaned, oiled, and reassembled to full working order, and I have you to thank for that.
Thank you Wes for the in-depth review of this machine. I bought this exact model in February and REALLY like it. I'm glad to know that the machine truly is a heavy duty one!
I have it too, and am happy with it.
Thank your for the information. I have been using this machine for years and love it. I also have a $6000.00 Viking electronic embroidery machine that has cost me many hundreds of dollars for maintenance and for a power supply. It needed another power supply a year after the last one was replaced. (Which I have not replaced. And yes, it is on a surge protector.) It now sits on the floor in my sewing room. The Singer is constantly used and works fine. Thank you for letting me know how to oil it.
Update - I just finished cleaning and oiling my Singer Heavy Duty. Thank you so much for saving me a lot of money.
This is by a large margin the best sewing machine review video I ever came across. Dense information, conveyed in a minimum of time - excellent use of bandwidth 😉
Being a fan of old Berninas (105, 114, 117 K&L) and Singers (206G and 316G) which I love for their indestructible sturdiness, smooth operations (specifically the Berninas with their rotating hook 🥰) and absence of plastic (except for the 316G's fashion discs - what were they thinking when constructing it?) I was considering something more modern and back friendly when lugging it around.
You answered practically all my questions with regards to the Singer 4432 HD in one go and gave me confidence that I would not waste my money on one (being ~ 10 times more expensive than what I usually pay for my old beauties).
Excellent job, one follower deserved and gained 😅 ... please keep up the great work!
Has anyone been bothered by the "warning " sign on the package that alerts to it may be causing cancer of the reproductive organs?
I’m so glad I watched this video on Singer Heavy Duty machines. I just bought a second-hand Singer HD. It ha been serviced and seems to sew well. Now that I’ve seen your video, I am especially pleased with my purchase. Thanks for all the great info.
I’ve had one of these but swapped it for a Singer 201K and I’ve never regretted it. The latter is my pride and joy and will last generations to come!
My mum has used her 201k for over 50 years! It was 13 years old when she bought it. It doesn't say HEAVY DUTY on the side, isn't made from plastic and is 100 times better made than this awful looking plastic machine. You made the right choice!
@@autouniontypeA I know ❤️ A work horse with no end 😊 I have two and bought my daughter one too.
I love the vintage sewing machines I have three vintage Singer sewing machines and I can’t tell you how happy I am to have such beautiful machines again vintage sewing machines are the best to have.
Like my mother's old Kenmore! Weighed a ton a sews through anything!
EXCELLENT ! Much more detailed than I expected . I rebuild small air compressors and appreciate your showing the individual parts within the Singer . Nice to know before making a purchase that this will probably do the job. I don't have the experience in using a machine as does Tracy , but ..... here goes ! Good job !
who Tracy?
interesting Im curious about that is there frabric parts in those compressors?
was thinking hoses maybe or dust filters what would involve sewing to rebuild that
I have this machine and love it so much more than my Eversew 30 sparrow.
Hi Melissa - how are you liking the 6800c after a month of use?
Can you tell me what the biggest size thread you can use and what the biggest stitch is? I use bonded nylon when sewing leather.
Thank you for taking the time to breakdown and explain through your knowledge of the mechanics of the machine. I'm a newer machine sewer (with a few hand sewing projects under my belt) and am hoping to purchase a machine that will last through a wide variety of projects (home and clothing). I've been debating between a used singer heavy duty or waiting to snag an older, all-metal sewing maching. This is definitely super informative and helps me be more informed as I figure out my options.
I have been sewing for 60 years and had Swiss made steel machines for many years. I also had industrial steel sewing machines. Never had problems and I didn't even have the money to service them, cleaning and oil.
Moved and had to sell them.
Bought a electronic Bernina, not made in Switzerland, but somewhere in the east and plastic and spent £600 on a peace of rubbish. It is so light that when you sew it moves and all those unnecessary stitches, I feel sorry for young people who want to get sewing because the modern machines are just a load of plastic.
Even this Singer heavy duty, just doesn't sound like a well made steel machine.
The old steel machines like the Elna su star and the Bernina 730 are just a cut above and you still find them on internet and they are still in great demand.
I am looking for one right now.
Good luck, but be careful.
Looks more well-built than I expected. Those gears on the motor shaft usually have a hex head set screw and motor shafts are pretty much universal so you can switch it as long as the relative position from where the motor mounts is the same. Very nice for a modern machine but I'll stick with the Pfaff 130-6 that I beefed up significantly.
The belt is called a toothed belt operating on the toothed pulley on the motor. They have exceptional life expectancy and transfer power better than traditional gears and shafts in the older machines.
This! The power is transmitted via tooth instead of via friction. If the belt is properly made, it should last at least a couple of thousands hours on max load. Typically these belts are allergic to any kind of oil, though, so be careful not to drop any oil on either belt. Otherwise the belt might detoriate pretty fast (the oil damages the belt via chemical reaction so the detoriation happens by calendar instead of by use from this moment forwards).
My mom had a singer from 70 something that broke 3 decades later and I remember her trying out 3 or 4 machines with no luck. I snagged one of these and she loved it. Great machine.
I'm using this machine now and i love it! 😍 worth the money spend
Thanks for this. I was watching videos on how to use this bugger and stumbled across yours. I think I made an OK choice. I bought mine at Walmart and just need something that will hold up to everyday type sewing. I doubt I'll ever need to sew more than 3 layers of leather! I love that mine has the needle threader. What a treat after all these years of threading sewing machine needles. I'm saving this for when I need to oil the beast. Without spending a fortune I think this is as close to what I learned to sew on back in the 1970s - no real bells and whistles to cause problems. Again, thank you!
I have one of these. I accidentally sewed through the metal head of a safety pin with it. Literally punched the needle right through it. So I guess it's pretty heavy duty. My only complaint is the plastic housing above the needle is very cumbersome. All of my machines before this one were Singer Touch & Sews, so I'm used to the area around the needle being open and easy to access.
I ordered one and sent it back because the outer cover was too clunky and hard to get my hand in the needle and foot area and I don't like the drop in bobbin, I did get another Singer the m3330 Making the Cut It's just cute , and works fine but not heavy duty,
Thank you for doing this video. I needed to know if this machine was heavy duty. I have this machine and I do like the way it works. Not knowing enough about sewing machines left me kind of doubting if it was heavy duty. Happy about the results.
Thank you so much! I really appreciate your video. Im currently looking to replace my sewing machine, i was hesitant to buy this machine to begin with, because of few video reviews i saw on youtube. Mostly because of the plstic exterior. Nobody does a depth investigation and review like you did. This is very helpful and fair review, and im so grateful to find your channel.
From the bottom of my heart, im thanking you very much.
Great video. My in laws bought me this machine a few years ago so I could repair denim and heavy work clothes. From my experience this machine is a real workhorse. After watching this I can see why and I will make sure to open it up and maintain it well.
I wish you were in my country so I could get you to service and upgrade my machines. I wish you more success
Excellent! My wife doubted that this machine I bought for my craft work was really "heavy duty." This review helped me have more confidence. Thanks.
Thanks to your example, I'm not going to break the plastic tab off the top plate. Thank you. Great video.
Thank you for this review. I had seen a sewing content maker criticize it as being in repair shops a lot & that Singer isn’t same quality since it’s changed owners.
I’ve been very happy with mine, and the only times where stitch knotting or tangle happened got fixed by adjusting tension and stitch length.
I’ve been thinking of getting one of these but was wondering how heavy duty together it was. I have to say your video has sold it.
Editing to add that this is the first time I’ve been able to sit through a longish video like this and not be bored to scrubbing forward. Your information is clear, concise, and engaging. Thank you for that.
Awesome! Thank you!
I'm right there with you. I've been delaying and can't believe my dumb luck to run into this. I want to be able to sew sunbrella and some leather. It is not going to be enough to justify an expensive machine. Now I can feel ok spending a reasonable amount. Liked and subscribed.
I have had my machine for over a year and have no problem at all with it I didn’t know where to oil it thank you for showing me
Appreciate your videos! So thorough! Especially thankful for this one and other peoples comments! Hope to get years of service and many projects done with this one.
I watched this after I already bought the machine, but before I turned it on for the first time. Glad I made the right decision. Thanks!
These are the type of videos that I would like to see for all the sewing machines
These are also the most expensive videos I make, lol
I just purchased this machine from the Singer web site and I'm waiting for it to be delivered. They were having a Labor Day sale, so I snatched it up for $223, and that includes tax. I'm a novice at sewing, so I started off with an inexpensive Singer Start 1304. After 2 months, my projects have become more than this beginner machine can handle, so I had to kick it up a notch and purchase the heavy duty machine. Thanks for the review. It makes me more confident that I made the right decision in the purchase of this model.
To test for aluminum or zinc, use a drop of vinegar. If it discolors, by blackening, its aluminum. :)
Thank you, your video helped me to repair my own Singer, I couldn’t figure out how to open it. Your video demo really made it easy for me!
I just purchased the 4432, which I was told is the same as the 4452. I enjoyed learning from you that the machine is heavy duty.
Me encanto ya me la compré esta pero la 4423 parece q es la misma lo q las diferencia son la cantidad de puntadas espero todo salga muy bién gracias bendiciones Dios me de mucho conocimiento por medio de usted saludos desde COSTA RICA 🙏
Love the scripture! Nice surprise! Great going on the heavy duty singer too, thank you.
Great job! I like seeing how a machine is constructed. I'm not impressed with the amount of plastic and plastic tab snap together body, but it's likely built better than most modern machines. I guess they've got to cut corners somewhere. TFS
Excellent review, thank you for the in-depth break down.
I have this machine and like it. Gets the job done and versatile for its price point.
It is still too plastic compared to what Singer used to manufacture. Everything is produced to lower costs as much as possible sacrificing long term quality.
They just won't last 20+ years as the older models. Plastic gears/parts lasting 'a little bit' doesn't cut it - it wears down over time. 'Plastic' and 'gears' should not be in the same sentence.
I bought a used 80's vintage Singer machine with a dozen basic stitches, is built like a tank, and even where plastic casing is used is hard and beefy compared to my 4452. No plastic gears, all metal-on-metal mechanics. If the timing becomes an issue, I can fix it. Cleaned and oiled it runs as new. My friend still uses the family's 1960's vintage Singer which works as well as it did brand new. Occasional cleaning/oiling and it keeps going. High quality.
I love your vídeos, thank you so much for your patience, time and good humor.
I would love to learn how to desassemble, oiling and greasing a Singer Heavy Duty 6800c.
I hope one day in the future I will learn with you.
God bless your heart.
This was the video I have been looking for! I bought one of these machines on Black Friday sale a few years ago on Amazon and hate to say how much cause they really came up in price! I originally bought it thinking if I killed it it would be less than repairing my beloved (now vintage) Pfaff creatives (1472 & 1472CD) to sew heavier projects cause I know my baby’s limits! Well, almost 6 years later it’s not died and I and anyone I loan it out to have become big fans of this machine. I take it to sewing get togethers (when we could get together) because it is lighter weight than my Pfaff 1472. It’s not fussy with tension and honestly I’ve barley messed with the tension from lightweight chiffon to Sunbrella. The stitch length is a big one to increase for heavier items. If I were still teaching sewing I’d use/recommended this machine. Now, I have used it on multiple layers of denim for an art exhibition and it did a good 95% well. If I could get it under the needle it sewed it. Don’t break needles as much as getting stuck. But you do have to watch out for the darn presser foot (which I hate) as I find it’s easy to get hung up on something.
I’ve done boat Bimini’s on it. Well, let’s say it was NOT enjoyable doing 2-4 layers of Sunbrella but again. It didn’t die. When my man wanted his vinyl Dodger windows replaced I told him I did need an actual industrial machine. I could try a sample but they don’t have the muscle to get through some marine fabrics.
Now, overall. I do love this machine. Does she have as beautiful of stitch as the vintage Singer 95? No. But the 95 is hard to beat. I’ve had friends want to buy it but she’s a keeper! Oh, that actually might be another good video. Test a Singer 95 against the heavy duty. Another repair person told me the 95’s were the strongest domestic machines ever made. If you couldn’t see it on them, you need an industrial. I’ve got one and it’s a little tank.
I’d also love to see a Sailrite review (haven’t checked your other video yet but will now)! We bought one for the Dodger window project and it made such a difference that they turned out so nice, I volunteered to do the rest of his windows! And I HATE marine sewing!!! But man, that machine had the muscle to get through those layers like nobody’s business. Mine won’t win any speed contests (think you can get a monster wheel or table setup) but it’s not about speed but the muscle to get through some nasty layers (2 vinyl and up to 4-5 Sunbrella) all without a gruff.
This video make me happy since I just bought a singer heavy duty
Thank you very much for taking the time for this video. As other people said, we are trying to get a better machine, as a heavy duty that can sew several layers of vinyl and others. I was watching some videos about the ST371HD from brother, it will be very interesting if you could show us in the same way if it is a real heavy duty. The brother has the possibility to lift the needle bar a little more than the singer and the other domestics so it will be important if this comparison could be done. I'm sorry if my english is not so well, I'm from México city, thank you very much
Excellent video! I am currently shopping for a heavy duty machine for some upholstery work and I am so glad I watched your video. I was really excited to see the tear down and where the machine needed to be oiled.
Excellent review. Thank you. Would be great if you looked under the hood of other machines too. It was great to see where the secret screws are! I tried to strip my pfaff but couldn’t get case off. And you can’t clean the tensions discs with it on. But you’ve given me an idea now !
I’m impressed by this video. THIS is RUclips at its best!
40 HRC isn't soft. The Rockwell hardness C scale goes from 20 - 75. 4140 medium alloy steel normalizes to ~ 30 HRC. 4130 alloy steel normalizes below 20. If it attracts a magnet the metal is steel.
* In case of SS, the magnet method won't work. I believe the best way to distinguish iron from aluminum in this case is by weight.
I bought this singer 4452 4 years ago. Used it once or twice. It’s my little pride. I need to take a course how to sew.
40 HRC will scratch even some mildly hardened steels. Your kit is for hardened steels only.
The chasis is not zamak, but it's not pure aluminum either.
It's made of silumin, composition of aluminum, sillicone and additives. It can containt up to 25% sillicone, which is basically sand and is dirt cheap, so silumin is cheaper than pure aluminum, but it's also slightly stronger at the cost of greatly reduced plasticity. You can't bend silumin or it will break.
Thanks for the insight! That makes a lot of sense, it doesn't seem like pure aluminum.
I just bought a singer hd6380 from Walmart. Very pleased. Has very good needle threader. Foot pedal is not heavy enough to stay stationary on floor.
Same thing with the 4452. The foot pedal is lightweight and cheap looking. It travels over the floor.
Great video!! It's good to know there are some modern models that can be maintained without breaking all of the plastic that holds them together. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you so very much for this information. I’ve been debating for two months on whether to purchase the Brother or Singer Heavy Duty mechanical machine. Yours is the one that helped me the final decision. Singer it is. ,,,,,, I think 🤔 😁 🤣
so glad to see so much metal inside this machine. glad i made the purchase, now to open it and use it.
I'm considering buying one of these, so I'm glad to see that it's intended to be maintained, but I naively assumed that all machines would be! Terrible that any manufacturer would make machines without easy access for basic oiling. Though having said that, I don't see any maintenance instructions in the manual for this one, other than how to change a needle, which is hardly "maintenance"! Lucky there's youtube. Thanks for the comprehensive teardown! :)
Hi West, thank you for showing this video, it is so nice to see the inside of this machine and how it is put together, you do a great job of showing this, Please post the Ten commandments on your bible bar, nothing in the bible is more important to remember than those, in my opinion.
I bought the Singer Scholastic 5523 in 2016 and it works amazing...it’s my go to machine...much better than my $4600 Brother Duetta Sewing Embroidery machine...you can hear the difference when sewing...
Very interesting and informative and also great video presentation. Not in the market for a machine like this, but would feel comfortable recommending the model next time someone asks. I'll also recommend your video!
IMO this would be a great starter machine for anyone with little or no experience.
Thank you!
I was dying to see inside of my machine! Thank you so much my husband really appreciate!
Thank you so much for this review. Very impressed with your skill, method and presentation.
My hobby grew to a small business size, and I now do lots of curtains. Mostly hand finishing, but the pleats are giving me grief. 2 plies of heavy damask or thick wool. lining, interlining and buckram - the sheer bulk of it is difficult to get under the foot, not to mention sew through, even though it is not as challenging as leather or canvas. Do you feel that this machine would be a suitable all-rounder, for the curtains but also for "normal" sewing? If not, could you be kind to recommend some machine models under 800$/500£? Maybe vintage? Does such a beast even exist? Thank you very much in advance!
Thank you for this review! I have had my eye on this machine for quite some time. My sister owns one and loves it. But I’ve been a Singer lover since the mid 1960’s and own a 1963 T&S with all metal gears. That machine, is what I would call heavy duty for a home machine. It’s gone back and forth across the US four times, with all but one time in a car. The fourth time, it fell off a conveyor belt while being loaded onto a plane. And it’s still running.
I think the term “heavy duty” by today’s standards means that it’s not all plastic. Cheap soft metal, sure, but no plastic.
Very informative and interesting. You have helped me to decide which machine to buy and it will be this one. Thank you 🙏 xxx
Great Video. I own a 4452 & I learned A LOT from your video. We are a small ( at this time ) startup company & we're using this machine. We are sewing terry cloth, vinyl, & pet screening. So far, the machine is holding up well, but ? This video has given me the confidence to go inside for R&R. Thanks !!!!
do you have any thoughts on the Juki 8700 ? When we go into production, I'm considering this machine. Thanks & keep up the great work
Great review.
I've seen 2 of your other trouble shooting vids. Am a new subscriber now!
Cheers from NZ
P.s...if you do a part 2 ...could you inc. a vid of you actually oiling the bearings, felts & pivot points where you'd expect to maintain, as well as the places to clean out lint/dust - to keep machines running for years.
Thank you for your thorough examination and investigation of this sewing machine. May you and your ministry be blessed.
There's also thin felt pads on either side of the motor bearings inside the motor plates with holes in them. Most people miss this. Maybe some shops. Must be careful only to add a very little bit.
My singer heavy duty 85scholastic (same as 4432) doesnt have felt pads inside motor, but my 4423 heavy duty has the felt.
I don’t own one yet, but this is the one I’ve been eyeing and you just convinced me 😊 very good information,Great video! Thanks.
Amazing what heavy duty means these days for all kinds of machines. Soft metal, plastic gears, plastic covers. Even someone has to disassemble it, so the customer can see if it is actually good and repairable. Heavy duty now means that it is barely good enough, instead of actually be strong and reliable for many years.
I’ll keep my vintage Singers. 😉
Gears are only as strong as their weakest link. Plastic dry rots with time and exposure to heat. Common sense will tell you that this machine will not hold up like a machine with all metal gears. I like the experiment and professional opinion and it does sew nicely, but I'll keep my tried and true vintage, all metal, heavy as heck, all metal machines.
Some modern plastics are more wear-resistant than metal. Also, plastic details are often intentionally engineered to break break to protect more expensive parts from damage when something goes wrong.
@@lordsgirl1123 my vintage singer just broke down and there are no repair shops near me. Idk even what’s wrong with it. 💔 I just bought a new singer and I miss my old one. I still have her hopefully someday I can figure out what’s wrong.
Nice comprehensive review. I have repeatedly had to reset the timing for my customers who own these machines. Yes, they have good torque however often times rather than breaking a needle the gear driving the hook slips on the shaft. This happens with as little as 20 hours of use. For this reason alone I advise customers to consider alternative machines.
Great Job! good info....about this Machine ..I own one and was wondering about the authenticity ...and truthfulness about its being called a "heavy duty" machine!
Thank you for this indepth review. I just bought this machine and I am pleased that I now know how to maintain it a bit beyond the basics. I am also pleased with my purchase now that I know that it does pass muster with testing you shared. I have a Juki Industrial machine but I wanted this one to be able to sew knits at a faster production and to be able to use a double needle. I also purchased a walking foot attachment for it and will be interested to see how it works.
Great review Wes, thank you. What I really valued was that your opinions are backed up by data and hard facts. I love watching reviews but sometimes they're just subjective opinions (which is fine), but the real value is in data. Look forward to seeing more from you. Incidentally, it wouldn't bother me to know you'd taken a machine on loan for a review - it's whether your audience believes you objectivity. Kind regards from North Wales UK
this is the best. I volunteer for snowball express by Gary sinese foundation. We bought 20 of these machines and for 6 days a year they run for 8 to 12 hours. We are putting patches on leather vests with either a free motion foot or a regular foot. They run like champs. between the 2 day and the next 4 they get a spa treatment. I knew they were an okay machine, until I saw this video I wasn't sure we had made the right choice. The only problem we have come across is all of a sudden they start acting up. breaking needles, thread and in general just being a pain. Going through all the troubleshooting I knew I noticed a rough spot just at the point where the thread goes around the bottom of the right bottom and catching. Changed out the bobbin casing and it went right back to sewing perfect. such an easy fix. just took me hours to figure out. welll done video. I learned a great deal. thank you,
Absolutely the MOST In-depth Review and pleasant to listen to! You've given me assurance that this model would be a good buy for me and I appreciate that. You are a good teacher/demonstrator and your camera work is excellent! So thank you, I'm subscribing and I hope your channel blooms and grows :) Surely Singer should sponsor your singer videos.
This was really good. I got to use one of these machines when a relative asked me to repair it. I thought maybe the timing was out of adjustment but it turns out the needle was damaged. Replaced the needle and it worked fine. It works fine but I have a Singer 301 and would never trade.
If I may make a video suggestion, I would like to see a video about servicing a few common modern machines, specifically the brother SE400/600, and its embroidery only counterpart, the PE770/800. I have noticed that these machines are very popular online, but little (quality) content exists on repairing or maintaining these machines, especially for common problems or adjustments. The only such detailed videos I can recall are those from Vince J Auri, who seems to know a lot about the machines, but has poor filming and editing. I think that is a good opportunity to attract some serious long term views for your channel.
Excellent video Wes. I am a sewing machine mechanic and I have always wondered how heavy duty the singer heavy duty really was. This video definitely shows that it is made pretty well. I just wish Singer had made the outside a little less boring.
Spray paint! :)
My daughter in-law, who is architect, likes the outside design. She likes the clean, straight lines and loves the grey/red colour. Too many sewing machines look girly.
@@c.a.savage5689 - I used one the other day. I like the look and know it is a good machine for the money based on what the reviews say. It can probably do everything I need. I still don't like it and decided to not buy it. It felt cheaply made and four pounds too light in contrast to my old machines. It did not feel (!) heavy duty.
@@my_dear_friend_ I suppose it depends on what one is accustomed to, and needs.
My mother had a heavy metal Singer in a walnut cabinet from the 1930s. It sewed just fine, but l didn't want it under any circumstances. I have a portable Spanish-made, enamel-on-metal body, Refrey 612 from 1991 that l love, but that's not available in England. Our choice was the Singer Heavy Duty 4411 for our daughter in-law who is just learning to sew. The motor is a little too fast for me, but the weight is fine, the sewing very stable and the follow-up after service and assistance, excellent.
@@c.a.savage5689 - I am sure the 4411 is great. I almost bought the 4423 I was looking at. Hard to go wrong with the heavy duty models. The sewing speed would be a concern I share with you. I am in no hurry.
Hi- Thanks for another great video! At exactly 12:50 in the video your finger is pointing at a metal piece next to the bearing, that has what appears to be 2 small felts. There is a 3rd felt in the part behind that metal piece. Are they to be oiled, and if so how much?
Grateful for the review. I will want to sew long stretches of sheepskins, in addition to denim etc. So far this is my favourite to see if it works. Your review hasn’t unearthed anything that puts me straight off that idea.
The pulley on the motor is either a pulley or a cogged pulley not a gear just saying
Nice anything with the belt , is a (sprocket )thank you for doing this
Gears run together but something with a belt with her tooth or not is a pulley or sprocket depending on whether it has teeth different animal...
Remove the back cover before the top. This will allow the top to come of very easily
The owner is supposed to remove the top regularly on any machine to oil it, think monthly. You don’t want to take the back off all the time, it’ll wind up breaking.
I remove the top on mine to oil it when needed and no problem breaking anything. I believe you missed a screw in front of cover where take up lever is housed prior to lifting off top with that yellow thing. It should easily just lift off without any force. But great video and review, Wes!! You’re the best!!
Wow. I learned a lot today and Thank You so much for your thorough and well-planned teardown.
I am looking at buying one of these machines but came across your video, so it confirms that I should go ahead.
I was given a branded leather belt that needs repair and I need a heavy-duty machine to do it or a leather awl.
After watching your video, I think this machine would be a good investment.
I watch lots of DIY videos and want to congratulate you. I think your presentation skills are top-notch because:
- You focus on the product, rather than always being in front of the camera.
- Your speech is clear, with a smooth flow and volume.
- You cover all aspects of the machine including materials, construction as well as needles.
- You know what you are talking about and give tips that help owners of this machine to maintain them.
- It was helpful to know what tools are required to use.
- Most of all > You are sincere! I have subscribed to your channel and look forward to new videos. Great job!