@@margaretjeffrey9122 I do! Good eye, Margaret. I temporarily pinned up an old bed sheet for a better background to photograph my machines I'm selling on CL. Just to try and have the machines show up a little better. I'll be taking it down in the future.
Well, this sure made my day! So happy to hear your voice again my friend...hope you are feeling well. No VSM channel on RUclips can compare to AndyTube
Hello 👋🏽 Great to see you are back with us! Thanking God for you and hopefully you are enjoying improved Health. Will look forward to your teachings. Thank you. Jesus is the Reason for the Season!👏🏼👏🏼🙌🏽👌🏼👍🏼🤗🙏🏼🙋🏻
Notification went up on a FB quilting group: Andy's back!!!! So good to hear your voice. You have done so much to unlock my machine's secrets and I'm grateful to you for showing me how to do it right.
Andy!! Yay!! I wish I could hit the like button one million times! The first time I wrestled with the brown tension knob on a 500A Rocketeer it was cemented on. I watched your video to remove it. So glad to see a new video from you.
Andy, it's so good to hear you again! We often talk about you and wonder how you're getting along. My husband and I spent a lot of time with your videos this past spring and summer while rehabbing my wonderful 500a. My husband now knows more about vintage sewing machines than he ever thought he would! 😆 We both greatly enjoy the genuine pleasure you experience when working with these fabulous old machines. That's what makes you such a wonderful teacher.... Well, that and several other qualities. I have a Touch and Sew 600e, my grandmother's 27, and a 128 with a Singer-badged Hamilton Beach Home Motor that still need restoring. When I can't sleep, I sometimes pull up one of your videos on my phone and let your comforting voice carry me off to sleep as you talk about one of my favorite subjects. We wish you the very best and hope to hear your chuckle many, many more times in the future!
thank you for the kind words 😊 I love hearing about your Rocketeer 500A and thanks for rehabbing it. I hope to resume posting videos as I am able to. You know? I've had people tell me my videos were so slow they were put to sleep, but never in the positive manner as you describe, ao special thanks for that. 🙏Hope to "see" you guys soon, and Happy New Year.✨
Great video Andy! I recently found a Rocketeer at the thrift store. I am fixing it up for my Granddaughter who is 8. I remember my mother using a Singer to make our clothes when I was a child. Your videos are just what I need to do the refurb. Thanks again!
OK, but I'm thanking you, Dewey. Your question gave me the encouragement to make this video. I should have made it long ago. Thanks for your support, and for saving that Rocketeer. Lucky Granddaughter 😀
Yay! It's an Andy Tube sighting! One of the best holiday presents ever! Hope things are going well for you, best wishes to you and your family, my friend! 💕
Oh frabjous day! Tears of happiness to see this video and hear your voice - I feel like I've been given the most incredible surprise for the holidays. I had to do a double-take when I saw that there was a new video - I didn't trust my eyes the first time. Thank you for taking the time to make this video for all of us. I don't have one of these machines but it was useful to watch anyway, there are always little things I pick up that help nomatter what machine I'm working on. And all these old machines are just so lovely anyway. All our best wishes to you and your family for a wonderful Holiday Season - you really, really deserve it! :-D
You're so kind. Megan 🙏 As I was uploading the video for posting, I could hardly believe it myself 😊 Thanks for watching my videos and saving the machines you have. Joyful holidays to you and Mr. 👍
Oh, happy day! So glad to see new video! Interesting! I've not seen this type of tensioner. Will watch other video about it. Been re-watching many of your other posted videos and have learned more and more. Enjoy your holidays, Andy.
Let me add to all, WELCOME BACK. YOU HAVE BEEN MISSED. I hope you have been ok. I would like to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a healthy and safe New Year ✨. God bless 🙏
Hey Andy I was only thinking about you yesterday and wondering how you are doing. Thanks for taking the time to post this, great to hear your voice again. One of the better things to come out of Covid is a renewed general interest in sewing.
Thanks for remembering me. Yes, the covid has created an increase in sewing. I saw that I have had 1.5 million views since March. That's as many as the previous 4 years! Take care, Tony. Happy Holidays.
So good to see you currently giving your help and advice in the troubled sewing machines arena. I hope your treatments will be shorter and go well. Merry Christmas to you and your family!!!
I think sewing machines are the most complex machines a person can have in their home. Thanks for your help with them. I've watched your other video and had my tensioner apart and cleaned it and put it back together. I've sewn masks with my other Singer and broke needles going through the pleats because of thickness. I don't think I'll have that problem with my new old 503a. Thanks Andy. My class 66 bobbins will be here after Christmas.
Howdy Andy Tube! This is right up my alley! Singer 500's ... Have a great Xmas Andy! Best wishes to you and your wife, family. Thank you for this years learning!
Thanks, Jebb. I watched your tension unit assembly video for this style. WHile making my video I wondered if you ever had the stuck knob. I'm so jealous of your videography skills. Whew! It's like I'm looking right over your shoulder. Merry Christmas and take care.
@@andytubesewing1953 Hahaha! Thanks for the compliment Andy Tube. Thank you too for highlighting my comment. I haven't had a stuck one yet. I did have a broken crossbar on a Singer 237 indicator dial! All the best!
Hello Andy, I've had some health issues this last year and started working on my wife's grandmothers 66 as part of my therapy. Then I was given a 237 and found your series on those. I've been working through that series and didn't even know you were off the air for a while. Sure glad your doing better. Well any way I want to sincerely thank you for all the work you have put into your videos to help others and let you know what a blessing you have been through these videos to my rehabilitation process. They say I'll never go back to a regular job, but I'm really enjoying working with these old machines. I have actually made some new parts with an old mill and lathe that my sons set up in the garage for me. Thanks again and hope your health continues to improve. Jim
I'm glad you found my videos, J. It's nice of you to comment like this. I've never used a mill and lathe but the idea of making replacement parts is intriguing. That's a real opportunity for fun in my view, hehe. The nice thing about working on these machines is there seems to be an endless supply available. Over the last five years, I've noticed more and more of my viewers and customers have been getting younger so there is another generation who is learning to sew and appreciate the machines. To your continued good health and a nice 2021.🙏
Thank you so much for your videos. My better half bought me 3 vintage Singers (a 201 treadle and 2x 99k) for Christmas. With you as company I have cleaned up one 99 already. Thanks for your step by step instructions for newbies like me. Glad you are back. Happy New Year to you and yours from New Zealand.
Your welcome, and a happy new year back to you & Mr. I enjoyed working on the 99K very much. I hope you did too. He made some great choices for you, IMO. It's always good hearing from a viewer in NZ, and if you run into Megan Mills in the Auckland area please tell her I said hello.
Hi, nice to see you back! Ive not yet delved into fixing tensions. One has no tension and one is really tight. Turning either makes no difference. But will be researching more before even attempting to disassemble. I dont now any of the parts of this area yet. All your videos and others help me to keep gaining knowledge in machine repair.
Thank you. I think you'll enjoy working on tension once you are ready. I have 30+ tension videos, so plenty of examples to learn from. For this 503A model here is an example: ruclips.net/video/OqZZ-uhnAMY/видео.html Thanks for watching my channel. Happy New Year.
So glad to see you back! and your helpful videos. I just bought a 500A in almost new condition..It belonged to a neighbor and her daughter never used it but still had it..
Guess what I brought home today..? yup, I bought the 503A. I haven't even gotten into it yet. didn't feel like doing much after all the driving I did to go and get it... But the hand wheel turns freely.. It looks as though someone might have had a problem with the upper thread tension knob, because there are spare pieces of a tension unit in a baggie. So it has been fixed, hopefully it works OK..The machine looks really nice, it's in a nice little table.. It has the pink plastic box with the button hole attachment, also the accessories box with the different feet and attachments. it also has the 9 original plastic cams. I am going to have fun opening it up to clean and oil. then lots more Andytube videos to watch. Thank you for the detailed playlist of the 503A..
Just incredible that you got all that for the price. Worth the drive I'd say. Yes, the pink "Jetson" buttonholer is the correct one for the slant needle machine 503A b/c it has the slant attachment. The green Jetson is the same d3vice just for straight shank machines. ruclips.net/video/e5131TMpI7A/видео.html So much to learn on a 503A, but man can it sew and craft some wonderful things. Have fun.
@@andytubesewing1953 Thank you, ,,You helped save another vintage Singer... I probably would not have even considered buying it, if not for your great detailed videos. I was sticking to the Iron ladies..but seeing your detailed videos, made me want the 237 that I recently finished, and now this 503A.. I am happy to have this beauty.. It even has the original manual. It was a good deal, and worth the hour and 40 min. "one way.". it does need cleaning,, old grease, dust, etc. and who knows what else? I'm not even going to plug it in until I clean, oil, grease and inspect the obvious things. In the meantime I have a lot of videos to watch. Thank you Andy..
Andy . . . your deep dives into the minutia of machine repair has made it possible for retirees like me to go where many cannot go. I have de-hibernated about 30 machines and they all are running well thanks to you. You have given me the confidence to tear down and reassemble many parts in many models of Singers. I would love to spend an hour chatting with you. I would love to see your face. Is that possible?
I don't think I could thank you enough for rescuing 30 machines! That seems a labour of love and you're wonderful to do that. BTW, sorry, but no pictures of me 😞 You'll thank me for that someday. Happy New Year Marcia, and thanks for watching my channel.
@@andytubesewing1953 Andy . . . I must apologize. I did not realize until after I sent this comment it was under my wife's name. She is my motivation. She is a textile artist. She has made dozens of quilts. . . all beautiful and some are award winners. I started making COVID masks on her backup machine ('48 Featherweight) After a couple hundred masks I was hooked. These vintage machines are terrific. I found a couple of distressed machine and brought them back to life. I started digging for information and your channel was the ticket. I don't know if I should praise you or curse you for my current affliction. I hope you are not disappointed that the original comment was not from a woman capable of vintage restoration. Marcia certainly could, but she would rather sew. Sorry, I'm rambling, but we both are appreciative of all the information you have shared with any who are interested. Hopefully I can pass these amazing machines on to grand-kids, Marcia's quilting guild, or a new generation of sewers who will keep the legacy of domestic machines alive. I'm getting pretty good at this, and the final outcome is usually very rewarding. I'm certain that with a little care the machines I have touched will last several generations. When the next COVID relief check arrives I will push a little to your paypal account. All the best to you! Thanks so much! Sincerely, Martin (and Marcia)
Thank you! Such an easy fix. I thought this was going to be a lot of hair dryer, penetrating oil etc. But just a little push and voila. Thank you for all your videos!
This video is great. I couldn’t figure out how to get that brown dial off, and then my pieces were also stuck together. I heated it up with a hairdryer and then used a dental pick type tool to pry the silver part off the brown part while warm and I luckily managed to work my way around it and get it off. Thanks so much!
Very welcome, Michael. I'm glad you found the video. I have 550+ more "informative" videos on my playlist page, sorted by model number ruclips.net/channel/UCUSPDsHaFtRoz1VA2U1xJ4wplaylists Happy Sewing.
The best machine to find... underused and in a case 😀 Here are a couple of playlists of videos that could help if you do find any issues with it. ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKJZaZn2zl3LsnV2d7UhrqvX Free instruction manual if needed: www.singer.com/search/support?title=500
Was so happy to see you here. Enjoyed the video..would like to find a Rocketeer sometime. I have Featherweights and 301’s. Merry Christmas and All the best to you in 2021!!!
Glad to see you back, hope you are doing well. Some of us sent cards and wishes to you through someone who offered to take them to you - I hope it was received!
Sorry, but that won't happen.😢 I have almost 600 videos but they are all Singer. You could always download the Service Manual and use it to work on the machine: www.manualslib.com/manual/1851040/Husqvarna-Viking-Automatic-21.html#manual You see the techniques I use and the manual would provide details. Maybe? Thanks for watching my channel and take care.
Is there a good way to clean the tension disks themselves? Seems like my thread is always getting stuck in the disks when I end seam, lift my presser foot and go to pull my piece out. I have to help the thread along through the needle otherwise it just wants to bend the needle because there's resistance in the tension disks. I can't tell if they're just dirty from being so old or not releasing tension when the foot comes up. (And no, there's no actual tension issues with the machine that effect sewing.) My father suggested taking some alcohol on a cloth and sliding it through the tension disks? I'd prefer a method to do it without straight up removing it IF possible.
Your father gave you some good advice. With a 60-year-old machine, I feel it is better to remove, clean & replace the assembly, but I understand it can seem intimidating. Based on your description of the problem a couple things can be happening. There can definitely be debris built up on the stud, check spring and discs. That can prevent the releasing pin from fully depressing the beehive spring to relieve tension on the discs, and even a little tension can cause drag on the needle thread. The other, more rare cause, is the tension pin releasing lever in the nose is loose, bent, or dirty and not pushing the tension releasing pin all the way into the stud. To clean the assembly without dismantling, turn the dial to zero and either brush, vacuum, or use canned air to remove as much gunk/lint as you can. If you use air, only blow sideways on the unit or you'll blow stuff into the coil of the tension spring and back into the spring recess area. Now lift the presser bar and do the same cleaning. Using a soft cloth dipped in alcohol, 70 to 90% if you have it, slip the cloth between the discs and give it a "shoe-shine" around the top, sides, and bottom. The cloth should penetrate enough to reach the stud in the center. You must be careful around the loop of the take-up /check spring to avoid bending it. Easy does it. I like using 1/2" strips of lense cleaning cloth. The microfiber material is good at catching and holding the gunk. I always follow this with a hairdryer while lifting and lowering the presser bar. I don't want any moisture to remain inside the spring or recess and cause rust. If this doesn't resolve the issue for you, I do have a video showing how to remove, replace, and adjust the assembly. ruclips.net/video/OqZZ-uhnAMY/видео.html On the very rare occasions where the releasing lever in the nose is the problem, I also have a video for removing that, but you need to remove some other parts first. ruclips.net/video/O4pHwpobhe4/видео.html Thanks for watching my channel, and props to your Dad 🙏 for his good suggestion.
I was so glad to come across this comment. My 347 was not producing an even stitch. The top thread always slipped a little, no matter what the top tension was. I put some alcohol on a cloth and slid it through the tension discs, and it cleared up the problem, and now I can make an even stitch. When I removed and cleaned and oiled the top tension parts for servicing, I think I forgot to remove the oil from the discs before reassembly. So now I won't forget this, and do it as a part of regular maintenance, too! So, thanks!
@@carolemagnusson5044 A fortuitous find when you decided to read the comment. Little treasures here and there in the comment section. Happy to hear you corrected the problem, Carole. Happy sewing.
Hi Andy, can you please tell me if the rubber bobbin tire for the 500a is indeed the same size as the one for the 401a? All the sites show them as the same but I thought I heard you say once that they are not? Glad you’re back! Be well
No, the 500A/503A has a smaller bobbin tire. You can force the bigger 401A size to fit, but it won't work as well when auto stopping the winding, IMO. Here is where I have bought my 500A tire for a few years: www.vintagesingerparts.com/collections/singer-model-503a-parts/products/bobbin-winder-tire-friction-wheel-26-mm-x-14-mm-x-6-5-mm-fits-singer-models-500a-503a Here is my video (part 2) for working on the winder which may be the place you heard me talk of the smaller size ruclips.net/video/P2ROdLM5zmE/видео.html Thanks for asking, and for watching my channel. (P.S. someone may be selling the smaller one and saying it fits the 401A, which it does, and it works, but just looks weird. Many sellers, esp eBay, don't know the difference. Also, when they say it "fits" yes, it will fit on the pulley, but the working space for the tire on the 500A/503A is very tight, so you'll be much happier with the smaller tire)
Hi, Sally, I've never even seen a model 306K, but IMO any sewing machine can be rewired. I don't even know if your machine has a light. Here is an example of replacing a cord on a foot pedal and wiring into the plug, just to give an idea ruclips.net/video/ZwMUYwFmahE/видео.html Here is a free download showing some wiring diagrams for Singer machines from ISMACS, the International Sewing Machine Collectors' Society ismacs.net/singer_sewing_machine_company/manuals/sewing-machine-wiring-diagrams.pdf You may be able to find a user group for your model and I know there are Singer vintage groups online, like Yahoo, Facebook, Etc. Sorry, I can't help you more than that, but thanks for watching my channel.
@@andytubesewing1953 thank you for replying. I’ll look at the videos. I’m a member of the Singer swing needle group on Facebook but not Much help there yet. I think I can get the light done. Main problem with it right now is it had 3 metal bands holding the socket together - made that way and not an add on by someone. I’ve got the two off but that third one is tiny and Bering a bugger about coming off.
@@AspenGlow2027 Best of luck to you. I think that is why those small bands are missing so often. I'm thinking people give up and cut them off. When I did the spotlight on my 99K the original ring was missing and I replaced it with a modern style snap ring as shown at 28:15 of this video ruclips.net/video/xNy0E3LVEHU/видео.html It worked well for me and at least it can be removed easier in the future if needed.
When you were successful at separating the brown knob from the flange thingy, what tools did you use to grab ahold of the two separate parts? I have small hands and can't see that threading it back onto the post and just pulling on the brown knob will do it. I need a way to really grab onto it. Thanks!
I did mention in the video that I've had a handful of the knobs that just would not separate from the flange piece no matter what I tried. I mention a few ways to loosen them starting @9:40 in the video. As far as tools the only thing I have used is 6" Diagonal Cutting Pliers. www.target.com/p/blue-ridge-tools-6-34-diagonal-cutting-pliers/-/A-78591361#lnk=sametab It seems like an odd choice, I'm sure, but I used them for 30+ years at work and am familiar with them. When the knob and flange are stuck together and I've tried alcohol, boiling water, freezing, WD-40, and so forth without luck I have sometimes had success with heating the knob with a hairdryer and using the pliers. I put one pointy tip on the inside edge of the hole of the flange on the backside, and the other pointy tip on the outside edge of the flange. I use the wire plier because of the sharp edge that grips the aluminum flange. The trick is not to damage the inside edge of the flange by over squeezing and hurting the threads there. It's tricky. Holding the brown knob in my left hand and the plier in my right I will twist them in opposite directions, back and forth, trying to break the "seal" holding the two parts together. A viewer told me he used a drill bit as a ram and hammered the flange out the back of the brown knob. Placing the back of the knob on his flat workbench and using a drill bit that barely fit inside the brown knob opening in front, he tapped with a hammer until the flange fell inside the knob. He used an old drill bit and put the flat end that goes into the drill into the knob and against the front of the flange, and hammered on the point of the bit. (why you use an old, dull bit) I've never done that myself.
@@andytubesewing1953 You, sir, are a steely-eyed rocket man (Apollo 13 is one of my favorite movies). The pliers did not work for me but the drill bit trick did! Then, I watched your mini-series on the tension assembly. What a revelation. I had no idea how that worked and have been "fixing" tension by turning the knob, holding my mouth right, and when that didn't work, contemplating sacrificing a chicken. I followed your mini-series, took the whole thing apart, cleaned and fixed, put it all back together and it now works like a dream. My old Rocketeer and I thank you for your expertise and your ability to share it. Take care!
@@lindaestes8261 You made my weekend. Thank you for letting me know the results. I'll suggest the drill bit method more often now that I have confirmation it works. Happy sewing and thanks for not giving up on your Rocketeer. (I'm sure the chicken is grateful too.)
Do you answer questions and/or offer help with sewing machines? I have a singer 403a, that belonged to my great-grandmother - it's having an issue sewing. At first the thread wouldn't move thru the tensioner, so I took it off and cleaned it - it also wasn't sewing, either the top thread was a long piece or I could see the bobbin thread on top. The thread moves thru the tensioner now, but the top thread is still one long piece. Or it bunches the fabric up, or does a lovely combo of the 2. If you could direct me to a video or tell me what to adjust I would appreciate it :) thank you
The most complete tension video for model 403A (long) ruclips.net/video/4aqRScKOOsw/видео.html Shorter version for general Singer Tension: ruclips.net/video/PSCY72bJ3x8/видео.html The Stroke & Tension of the Check Spring on your model: ruclips.net/video/t3UqzYRo-cc/видео.html Adjusting Bobbin Thread Tension on your type of bobbin holder: ruclips.net/video/bhcsfhaBRDo/видео.html A complete series about your tension: ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKJaeFB_GW97NsW5GYM7KD9U A free copy of the original Singer Instruction Manual for Model 403, 100 pages that include needle threading, bobbin case threading, tension adjustment, how to select the needle, thread, and stitch length based on the fabric you are sewing, cleaning and oiling the machine, using the controls, etc. can be downloaded here: www.singer.com/search/support?title=403
Do you have any suggestions for replacing the feeding dog gears on a Singer Stylist 534? Can I follow one of your other videos to fix mine? Thank you in advance
I have suggestions, yes, but I did not make videos of these models. Here is a list of videos that can help you: ruclips.net/user/results?search_query=replace+singer+sewing+machine+gears There is also a 9-page guide written by Terry at tandtrepair.com that covers this: store.tandtrepair.com/513gg.html Use coupon andy-h-yt for 20% off if you buy the guide (or anything from him) several of my viewers have used his guide and a couple of the videos to change out the gears of these models. Good Luck.
Hi Andy, I have a question about controllers. I have the old carbon pile type button controller and have cleaned it out and had a number of broken piles. I sorted them out and I think I have 45 per side. I'm having trouble controlling the machine while I'm filling the bobbin, speeding up and slowing down like that. Not so much trouble with the actual sewing. Are the new electronic controllers more accurate and will they work well with my 503a? I see that Central Michigan Sewing Supply has a new replacement with a carbon pile control. Any ideas?
The new electronic controllers are incredibly accurate. Especially for slow or very steady speed. I've installed a few for customers who tend to sew on the slower style, like when doing free-hand sewing. ruclips.net/video/uiEvEFNZA58/видео.html The carbon stack pedals run hotter the slower they go b/c of the resistance to the power making them heat up. I used to be able to buy replacement carbons, but they are getting harder to find. In fact, last I checked, Terry is the only one selling them store.tandtrepair.com/618804003.html (use coupon andy-h-yt for 20% off) That tube has about 50 of the new carbons which are double thick, so they fill the old dual channel foot pedals also. IMO, the new carbon foot pedals will run warm and eventually have the same problem you found. Depending on the price difference I always have recommended an electronic pedal. They never get warm or hot, have superior control. You need a surge protector for it as you would any new electronic device. I used to buy ones like this b/c they came without cords and I could easily reuse the existing cords which often were color coded to the machine www.sewingpartsonline.com/foot-control-deluxe-universal-6098fc.aspx You may be able to find both types of pedals already wired for your model of machine (Singer) The new carbon pedals are usually cheaper though, so it's a personal choice. None of the new pedals work with the knee brackets of Singer cabinets without special modifications that you'd need to make. Do not buy a used carbon pedal online or without trying it first. It may be just as bad, or worse, than your old pedal. Good luck, Ralph, and thanks for watching my channel.
@@andytubesewing1953 Thanks so much Andy, I truly appreciate what you do for beginning seamsters and people with the older machines like me. I think I'll order one of the electronics. Thanks for the info.
@@ralphwatten2426 I'm glad you find my videos helpful, thank you. Always enjoy helping a fellow sewist with machine info. I did not mention it, but some of the customers sewed barefoot or in socks, and could not take the heat even though the old pedal worked OK. The first lady asked me to build some kind of an insulated box for the pedal with a raised foot for her to push on, hehe. She sure loved her new electronic pedal.
@@andytubesewing1953 Yes, thanks for all your help. I've ordered the electronic controller for my 503a. I'm going to sew a replacement cover on my military back pack for my next project. Thanks-
Hi, I love your videos. I picked up a free 403a a week ago. I'm missing that brown knob on the tension. Can you please let me know where I might be able to buy one?
@@nldcam OK, sorry if I'm confused. The factory tension on the 403A did not have a brown knob. If your machine has a tension unit like the one in the video you can find a replacement here: www.ebay.com/itm/154796992004?hash=item240a9ea604:g:0HAAAOSwRJth4w4i I don't know of anyone who just sells the knob or makes new knobs, so I've always had to buy a used one. You can see the original chrome knob of a 403A tension assembly in this video: ruclips.net/video/t3UqzYRo-cc/видео.html Maybe you are talking about the dial with the numbers on it? Either way, we have to buy used parts for most of the vintage tension units. I use eBay but there are other sites that sell used parts also. Good Luck.
Oh, you have to know the passwords to see the 500A/503A videos.👀 Not really, just joking.😉 Models 500A/503A have a different body style but the same mechanical systems as the 401A/403A except for the handwheel and bobbin winder. There are many videos for them on YT. As an example I have 17 videos for Model 401A that can be mostly applied to model 500A: ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO I have 27 videos for model 403A that can mostly be applied to the 503A: ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKKyqvdDRwS-9MfLuwSNJTcg Then I made 27 videos for model 503A that can be used for model 500A too: ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKJZaZn2zl3LsnV2d7UhrqvX I tried to cover everything on the machines with those 71 videos. That does not count the videos for the motors and the foot pedals that are used by those 500A/503A models. If you'd like some original factory information about the Rocketeer models you can always download a free copy the the Service Manual in PDF format from the Sewing Dude: sewingdude.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/singer-500-service-manual.pdf\ Thanks for watching my channel.
YOUR BACK HUGGGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!MISSED YOU SOO MUCH !!!!!!! YIPPPEEEEEEE!!!!!!!! been praying for you every nite!!!!
Prayers are great and I thank you for them 💖
Let me join the crowd and express how pleased "we" are to hear your voice and reconnect with you, Warmest heartfelt wishes dear friend.
I think I got something in my eye here? Thank you so much 🙏😉
Thank you for coming back! I missed you!
Thank you, Mamie. A very kind comment. 😀
So happy to see this video! Welcome back Andy, you've been missed.
Hi Andy, I’m SO SO thrilled to see you here today! We have missed you. I hope you saw my Kurd Kutter post about my daughter’s wedding gown.
I'll second that welcome back!!!!!
@@rafaelmunoz21 😀
@@trikatootrikaii5111 Thanks. I did. Take care.
Debra, thank you very much ✨
It’s so good to hear your voice!!!! We have missed you!
Oh thank you, Kim. I appreciate your kindness 🙏
Welcome back Andy
Thank you, Margaret 👍
Andy Tube you have a different background
@@margaretjeffrey9122 I do! Good eye, Margaret. I temporarily pinned up an old bed sheet for a better background to photograph my machines I'm selling on CL. Just to try and have the machines show up a little better. I'll be taking it down in the future.
Andy Tube hope everything is ok for you now. We have all been very concerned for you
@@margaretjeffrey9122 not ok, but not worse right now. Thanks for the concern
Seeing a notification that Andy has posted a new video just made my morning!
You're the best! Thank you very much. 🙏
So happy to see this pop up in my notifications! Welcome back, Andy!
Thank you, Michelle 🙏
So happy to see you're back!
thanks very much, Susan. 👍
Warmest welcome back!@
Thanks very much, Ray 😊
Very happy to see you back, Andy. I learn so much from you ! Thank you !
Nicely said, Georges. Thanks for watching my channel. Take care.
Andy I’ve missed you so much. You’ve been in my prayers.
🙏 Can't thank you enough for the prayers, terry. Still the best, aren't you? ✨
Well, this sure made my day! So happy to hear your voice again my friend...hope you are feeling well. No VSM channel on RUclips can compare to AndyTube
I'm humbled to read your comment. I'm honored you feel that way about my videos. Thank you for your support. 💖
Seeing that there was a new Andy video made my day! Merry Christmas, Smiles and Best Wishes, Stella
Merry Christmas, Stella, and thank you 😊
Perfect timing! I was ready for some good news!!!
Thanks very much, Terry. I appreciate your support 🙏
Thanks God! Happy to hear from you again wonderful Teacher. Merry Christmas and a lots of blessing for the new Year 2021
Thanks be to God, yes 💖 Have a wonderful holiday, evelin, and hoping to see you in the new year.
Omg...so happy to hear from you...we’ve all missed you!...have a wonderful Christmas and keep safe
Thank you ✨ Merry Christmas. Linda.
Merry Christmas, Andy! ❤️❤️ I’m not crying.
Merry Christmas to you and yours, Cilla. 🎄💖
So happy to see you again! Merry Christmas and thank you for your knowledge.
Merry Christmas, Loriann. Thank you very much.
Hello 👋🏽
Great to see you are back with us! Thanking God for you and hopefully you are enjoying improved Health.
Will look forward to your teachings. Thank you. Jesus is the Reason for the Season!👏🏼👏🏼🙌🏽👌🏼👍🏼🤗🙏🏼🙋🏻
Thank you so much 🤗 Thanks be to God. 💖
Good to see you posting and blessing us all, Merry Christmas :)
Merry Christmas. Thanks for your support and kind words.
Welcome back ❤
thanks very much 👍
Notification went up on a FB quilting group: Andy's back!!!! So good to hear your voice. You have done so much to unlock my machine's secrets and I'm grateful to you for showing me how to do it right.
Thank you. Hearing my videos have helped you is music to me 🎼🎶
So happy to see you back! All is right with my world when I hear your voice again teaching us more about our favorite sewing machines.
Thank you so much! I appreciate your kind comment. ✨🙏
Andy!! Yay!! I wish I could hit the like button one million times! The first time I wrestled with the brown tension knob on a 500A Rocketeer it was cemented on. I watched your video to remove it. So glad to see a new video from you.
Thanks very much for watching my channel al this time. I love your comment.✨
Hello Andy! So glad to see you,Merry Christmas 🎄!
Same to you! Thank you for your lovely comment. ✨
Very happy to see you back Mr. Andy Tube!!!
Thanks for your kindness, Terie. Take care. 😀
Sure have missed you! Welcome back, Andy. 🙏🇺🇸
Hey, thanks! I appreciate your kind words, Rich. Take Care.
Do you feel all the love? So very happy to see/hear you. Wishing you and your family the happiest of holidays. Please stay safe and warm! ❤️❤️❤️
I do feel it, Helen. It's almost overwhelming. (almost) Doing my best to stay safe and out of trouble. Happy Holidays. 💖
Andy, it's so good to hear you again! We often talk about you and wonder how you're getting along.
My husband and I spent a lot of time with your videos this past spring and summer while rehabbing my wonderful 500a. My husband now knows more about vintage sewing machines than he ever thought he would! 😆 We both greatly enjoy the genuine pleasure you experience when working with these fabulous old machines. That's what makes you such a wonderful teacher.... Well, that and several other qualities.
I have a Touch and Sew 600e, my grandmother's 27, and a 128 with a Singer-badged Hamilton Beach Home Motor that still need restoring.
When I can't sleep, I sometimes pull up one of your videos on my phone and let your comforting voice carry me off to sleep as you talk about one of my favorite subjects. We wish you the very best and hope to hear your chuckle many, many more times in the future!
thank you for the kind words 😊 I love hearing about your Rocketeer 500A and thanks for rehabbing it. I hope to resume posting videos as I am able to. You know? I've had people tell me my videos were so slow they were put to sleep, but never in the positive manner as you describe, ao special thanks for that. 🙏Hope to "see" you guys soon, and Happy New Year.✨
So good to see you back Andy!
Thanks for the kind comment, Sandra. I appreciate your tuning in still. Be safe. ✨
Great video Andy! I recently found a Rocketeer at the thrift store. I am fixing it up for my Granddaughter who is 8. I remember my mother using a Singer to make our clothes when I was a child. Your videos are just what I need to do the refurb. Thanks again!
OK, but I'm thanking you, Dewey. Your question gave me the encouragement to make this video. I should have made it long ago. Thanks for your support, and for saving that Rocketeer. Lucky Granddaughter 😀
Yay Andy. Welcome back. Been thinking about you loads. 💕💕💕
Hi bernie 😀 Thank you very much 🙏
Yay! It's an Andy Tube sighting! One of the best holiday presents ever! Hope things are going well for you, best wishes to you and your family, my friend! 💕
You're very kind. Thanks for watching my channel and happy holidays 💖
So glad to see you back on RUclips. Hope you can have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Thank you! You too! I appreciate your comment. 🙏
Oh frabjous day! Tears of happiness to see this video and hear your voice - I feel like I've been given the most incredible surprise for the holidays. I had to do a double-take when I saw that there was a new video - I didn't trust my eyes the first time.
Thank you for taking the time to make this video for all of us. I don't have one of these machines but it was useful to watch anyway, there are always little things I pick up that help nomatter what machine I'm working on. And all these old machines are just so lovely anyway.
All our best wishes to you and your family for a wonderful Holiday Season - you really, really deserve it! :-D
You're so kind. Megan 🙏 As I was uploading the video for posting, I could hardly believe it myself 😊 Thanks for watching my videos and saving the machines you have. Joyful holidays to you and Mr. 👍
Oh, happy day! So glad to see new video! Interesting! I've not seen this type of tensioner. Will watch other video about it. Been re-watching many of your other posted videos and have learned more and more. Enjoy your holidays, Andy.
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for still watching my videos and have a happy, safe holiday season. 💖
Let me add to all, WELCOME BACK. YOU HAVE BEEN MISSED. I hope you have been ok. I would like to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a healthy and safe New Year ✨. God bless 🙏
Thank you very much, Ronald, for the blessing. Yes, Merry Christmas and a better 2021 for us all 👍
So happy to hear from you, Andy. About the Rocketeer yet, my favorite!! what a Christmas gift! Merry Christmas to you and your family.
I was asked many times about this tension unit and had promised to make the video. I'm glad I got a chance to do it. Merry Christmas. Take care.
Hey Andy I was only thinking about you yesterday and wondering how you are doing. Thanks for taking the time to post this, great to hear your voice again. One of the better things to come out of Covid is a renewed general interest in sewing.
Thanks for remembering me. Yes, the covid has created an increase in sewing. I saw that I have had 1.5 million views since March. That's as many as the previous 4 years! Take care, Tony. Happy Holidays.
Just a big happy smile. 🤗 Glad you are back.
Thank you 😀 You have a great smile; thanks for sharing it with me. Take care.
So good to see you currently giving your help and advice in the troubled sewing machines arena. I hope your treatments will be shorter and go well. Merry Christmas to you and your family!!!
Merry Christmas to you and yours, Rita. Thanks for the kind wishes. 💖
I think sewing machines are the most complex machines a person can have in their home. Thanks for your help with them. I've watched your other video and had my tensioner apart and cleaned it and put it back together. I've sewn masks with my other Singer and broke needles going through the pleats because of thickness. I don't think I'll have that problem with my new old 503a. Thanks Andy. My class 66 bobbins will be here after Christmas.
Thank you, Ralph. You'll be very satisfied with your Rocketeer and be using your time and creativity instead of replacing needles. Happy sewing.
Hi Andy! So happy to see you back!!!!
Thanks, Susan. Happy to read your comment. 😊
Wow! So wonderful to hear you again! Merry Christmas and blessings to you and your family this season.
@@sharonneuer2222 Thanks very much, Sharon. Merry Christmans
Howdy Andy Tube! This is right up my alley! Singer 500's ... Have a great Xmas Andy! Best wishes to you and your wife, family. Thank you for this years learning!
Thanks, Jebb. I watched your tension unit assembly video for this style. WHile making my video I wondered if you ever had the stuck knob. I'm so jealous of your videography skills. Whew! It's like I'm looking right over your shoulder. Merry Christmas and take care.
@@andytubesewing1953 Hahaha! Thanks for the compliment Andy Tube. Thank you too for highlighting my comment. I haven't had a stuck one yet. I did have a broken crossbar on a Singer 237 indicator dial! All the best!
So nice to have you back Andy hope everything is well merry Christmas and happy New Year.
Same to you! Hope we all have a good new year 2021. Thanks for watching my channel. 👍
P.S., I've missed your chuckle!!
hehe, thanks Ronald 😊
Hello Andy,
I've had some health issues this last year and started working on my wife's grandmothers 66 as part of my therapy. Then I was given a 237 and found your series on those. I've been working through that series and didn't even know you were off the air for a while. Sure glad your doing better. Well any way I want to sincerely thank you for all the work you have put into your videos to help others and let you know what a blessing you have been through these videos to my rehabilitation process. They say I'll never go back to a regular job, but I'm really enjoying working with these old machines. I have actually made some new parts with an old mill and lathe that my sons set up in the garage for me. Thanks again and hope your health continues to improve. Jim
I'm glad you found my videos, J. It's nice of you to comment like this. I've never used a mill and lathe but the idea of making replacement parts is intriguing. That's a real opportunity for fun in my view, hehe. The nice thing about working on these machines is there seems to be an endless supply available. Over the last five years, I've noticed more and more of my viewers and customers have been getting younger so there is another generation who is learning to sew and appreciate the machines. To your continued good health and a nice 2021.🙏
I keep coming back to this video each time I forget how it's done. Thank you Andytube!!!
The video that keeps on helping! I love it. Thanks for the nice comment, 🙏and take care.
Thank you so much for your videos. My better half bought me 3 vintage Singers (a 201 treadle and 2x 99k) for Christmas. With you as company I have cleaned up one 99 already. Thanks for your step by step instructions for newbies like me. Glad you are back. Happy New Year to you and yours from New Zealand.
Your welcome, and a happy new year back to you & Mr. I enjoyed working on the 99K very much. I hope you did too. He made some great choices for you, IMO. It's always good hearing from a viewer in NZ, and if you run into Megan Mills in the Auckland area please tell her I said hello.
Great to see you back.
Thank you, Pete. Take care.
Hi, nice to see you back! Ive not yet delved into fixing tensions. One has no tension and one is really tight. Turning either makes no difference. But will be researching more before even attempting to disassemble. I dont now any of the parts of this area yet. All your videos and others help me to keep gaining knowledge in machine repair.
Thank you. I think you'll enjoy working on tension once you are ready. I have 30+ tension videos, so plenty of examples to learn from. For this 503A model here is an example: ruclips.net/video/OqZZ-uhnAMY/видео.html Thanks for watching my channel. Happy New Year.
Take Care Andy !!!!!! We all Missed You!
🙏✨
So glad to see you back! and your helpful videos. I just bought a 500A in almost new condition..It belonged to a neighbor and her daughter never used it but still had it..
What a wonderful way to start the new year. A "new" Rocketeer for you 🏆
So very happy to see this---wishing you the best Andy-- Happy Holidays to you and your family.
Happy to make a video, believe me 😉 Thanks for all your kind wishes.
Guess what I brought home today..? yup, I bought the 503A. I haven't even gotten into it yet. didn't feel like doing much after all the driving I did to go and get it... But the hand wheel turns freely.. It looks as though someone might have had a problem with the upper thread tension knob, because there are spare pieces of a tension unit in a baggie. So it has been fixed, hopefully it works OK..The machine looks really nice, it's in a nice little table.. It has the pink plastic box with the button hole attachment, also the accessories box with the different feet and attachments. it also has the 9 original plastic cams. I am going to have fun opening it up to clean and oil. then lots more Andytube videos to watch. Thank you for the detailed playlist of the 503A..
Just incredible that you got all that for the price. Worth the drive I'd say. Yes, the pink "Jetson" buttonholer is the correct one for the slant needle machine 503A b/c it has the slant attachment. The green Jetson is the same d3vice just for straight shank machines.
ruclips.net/video/e5131TMpI7A/видео.html So much to learn on a 503A, but man can it sew and craft some wonderful things. Have fun.
@@andytubesewing1953 Thank you, ,,You helped save another vintage Singer... I probably would not have even considered buying it, if not for your great detailed videos. I was sticking to the Iron ladies..but seeing your detailed videos, made me want the 237 that I recently finished, and now this 503A.. I am happy to have this beauty.. It even has the original manual. It was a good deal, and worth the hour and 40 min. "one way.". it does need cleaning,, old grease, dust, etc. and who knows what else? I'm not even going to plug it in until I clean, oil, grease and inspect the obvious things. In the meantime I have a lot of videos to watch. Thank you Andy..
Welcome back!! You have been sorely missed!
😀 thank you very much.
Andy . . . your deep dives into the minutia of machine repair has made it possible for retirees like me to go where many cannot go. I have de-hibernated about 30 machines and they all are running well thanks to you. You have given me the confidence to tear down and reassemble many parts in many models of Singers. I would love to spend an hour chatting with you. I would love to see your face. Is that possible?
I don't think I could thank you enough for rescuing 30 machines! That seems a labour of love and you're wonderful to do that. BTW, sorry, but no pictures of me 😞 You'll thank me for that someday. Happy New Year Marcia, and thanks for watching my channel.
@@andytubesewing1953 Andy . . . I must apologize. I did not realize until after I sent this comment it was under my wife's name. She is my motivation. She is a textile artist. She has made dozens of quilts. . . all beautiful and some are award winners. I started making COVID masks on her backup machine ('48 Featherweight) After a couple hundred masks I was hooked. These vintage machines are terrific. I found a couple of distressed machine and brought them back to life. I started digging for information and your channel was the ticket. I don't know if I should praise you or curse you for my current affliction. I hope you are not disappointed that the original comment was not from a woman capable of vintage restoration. Marcia certainly could, but she would rather sew. Sorry, I'm rambling, but we both are appreciative of all the information you have shared with any who are interested. Hopefully I can pass these amazing machines on to grand-kids, Marcia's quilting guild, or a new generation of sewers who will keep the legacy of domestic machines alive. I'm getting pretty good at this, and the final outcome is usually very rewarding. I'm certain that with a little care the machines I have touched will last several generations. When the next COVID relief check arrives I will push a little to your paypal account. All the best to you! Thanks so much! Sincerely, Martin (and Marcia)
Merry Christmas Andy and family!
Thank you very much, Geralyn. Merry Christmas ✨
I missed you! You’re back!
Oh, thanks very much, Sheila 😀
Welcome back Andy. Great to hear your voice again. Looks like I'm not the only one.
Thanks very much. I was wondering if you'd stop by, hehe. Have a good new year.
Welcome back, my friend.
Thank you, Bob. 😀
Thank you! Such an easy fix. I thought this was going to be a lot of hair dryer, penetrating oil etc. But just a little push and voila. Thank you for all your videos!
Glad it helped!
Welcome back Andy!!
Thanks for still watching my channel 😊
This video is great. I couldn’t figure out how to get that brown dial off, and then my pieces were also stuck together. I heated it up with a hairdryer and then used a dental pick type tool to pry the silver part off the brown part while warm and I luckily managed to work my way around it and get it off. Thanks so much!
A very good idea to use a dental pick and thanks for sharing that.
What a great Christmas gift to see a new video from you! So happy! Thank you, welcome back and Merry Christmas Andy! 🎄
Thanks very much, Catherine. Merry Christmas ✨
wow. finally someone who has real info to share. I could not figure this out. Thanks so much!!
Very welcome, Michael. I'm glad you found the video. I have 550+ more "informative" videos on my playlist page, sorted by model number ruclips.net/channel/UCUSPDsHaFtRoz1VA2U1xJ4wplaylists Happy Sewing.
Andy! Yay! Hope so much you are doing well! We’ve missed your wonderful personality but more importantly have hoped you are doing ok. Happy new year!
Happy New Year back to you guys. Thanks for the good wishes. 🙏✨
Welcome back!!!
Thank you, Patty. ✨
Welcome back!!! I missed you so much! Happy Holidays. 🎄
Thanks very much, Tiffany 😊
Oh Andy, so nice to see you back! 😊 ❤️
very nice of you to say so.✨ Thank you 🙏
Whaaaaat?? Ohhhh boy I was glad to "see" you back! Just glad to know you are ok.
Have a very Merry Xmas and know you were missed!
Thanks very much, Georgia 💖
This 500A still sews wonderfully..I have not oiled it or taken it out of the case to look inside. It does not even look dusty etc.
The best machine to find... underused and in a case 😀 Here are a couple of playlists of videos that could help if you do find any issues with it. ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO
ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKJZaZn2zl3LsnV2d7UhrqvX
Free instruction manual if needed: www.singer.com/search/support?title=500
Yay! So glad to see you back Andy Tube! Happy New Year! :)
Thanks very much, Thea. Yes, Happy New Year. 😊
Was so happy to see you here. Enjoyed the video..would like to find a Rocketeer sometime. I have Featherweights and 301’s. Merry Christmas and All the best to you in 2021!!!
Thank you, Vanessa. 🙏You'd enjoy seeing the advancements from the 301 into the 500A or 503A. Happy New Year!
Glad to see you back, hope you are doing well. Some of us sent cards and wishes to you through someone who offered to take them to you - I hope it was received!
Thank you. A video for you 1-21-2021 in the AM.
so happy to see there was a video on !!! Take care and Merry Christmas and Happy New 2021
thanks for your support and kind comments! have a wonderful new year ✨😊
Thanks Andy!!
😀👍
Best Master Andy. Thanks you
I appreciate your kind comment and thank you for watching my channel
I hope someday Andy makes Husqvarna Viking/automatic CL21 series videos :)
Sorry, but that won't happen.😢 I have almost 600 videos but they are all Singer. You could always download the Service Manual and use it to work on the machine: www.manualslib.com/manual/1851040/Husqvarna-Viking-Automatic-21.html#manual You see the techniques I use and the manual would provide details. Maybe? Thanks for watching my channel and take care.
Is there a good way to clean the tension disks themselves? Seems like my thread is always getting stuck in the disks when I end seam, lift my presser foot and go to pull my piece out. I have to help the thread along through the needle otherwise it just wants to bend the needle because there's resistance in the tension disks. I can't tell if they're just dirty from being so old or not releasing tension when the foot comes up. (And no, there's no actual tension issues with the machine that effect sewing.) My father suggested taking some alcohol on a cloth and sliding it through the tension disks? I'd prefer a method to do it without straight up removing it IF possible.
Your father gave you some good advice. With a 60-year-old machine, I feel it is better to remove, clean & replace the assembly, but I understand it can seem intimidating. Based on your description of the problem a couple things can be happening. There can definitely be debris built up on the stud, check spring and discs. That can prevent the releasing pin from fully depressing the beehive spring to relieve tension on the discs, and even a little tension can cause drag on the needle thread. The other, more rare cause, is the tension pin releasing lever in the nose is loose, bent, or dirty and not pushing the tension releasing pin all the way into the stud. To clean the assembly without dismantling, turn the dial to zero and either brush, vacuum, or use canned air to remove as much gunk/lint as you can. If you use air, only blow sideways on the unit or you'll blow stuff into the coil of the tension spring and back into the spring recess area. Now lift the presser bar and do the same cleaning. Using a soft cloth dipped in alcohol, 70 to 90% if you have it, slip the cloth between the discs and give it a "shoe-shine" around the top, sides, and bottom. The cloth should penetrate enough to reach the stud in the center. You must be careful around the loop of the take-up /check spring to avoid bending it. Easy does it. I like using 1/2" strips of lense cleaning cloth. The microfiber material is good at catching and holding the gunk. I always follow this with a hairdryer while lifting and lowering the presser bar. I don't want any moisture to remain inside the spring or recess and cause rust. If this doesn't resolve the issue for you, I do have a video showing how to remove, replace, and adjust the assembly. ruclips.net/video/OqZZ-uhnAMY/видео.html On the very rare occasions where the releasing lever in the nose is the problem, I also have a video for removing that, but you need to remove some other parts first. ruclips.net/video/O4pHwpobhe4/видео.html
Thanks for watching my channel, and props to your Dad 🙏 for his good suggestion.
I was so glad to come across this comment. My 347 was not producing an even stitch. The top thread always slipped a little, no matter what the top tension was. I put some alcohol on a cloth and slid it through the tension discs, and it cleared up the problem, and now I can make an even stitch. When I removed and cleaned and oiled the top tension parts for servicing, I think I forgot to remove the oil from the discs before reassembly. So now I won't forget this, and do it as a part of regular maintenance, too! So, thanks!
@@carolemagnusson5044 A fortuitous find when you decided to read the comment. Little treasures here and there in the comment section. Happy to hear you corrected the problem, Carole. Happy sewing.
Hi Andy, can you please tell me if the rubber bobbin tire for the 500a is indeed the same size as the one for the 401a? All the sites show them as the same but I thought I heard you say once that they are not? Glad you’re back! Be well
No, the 500A/503A has a smaller bobbin tire. You can force the bigger 401A size to fit, but it won't work as well when auto stopping the winding, IMO. Here is where I have bought my 500A tire for a few years: www.vintagesingerparts.com/collections/singer-model-503a-parts/products/bobbin-winder-tire-friction-wheel-26-mm-x-14-mm-x-6-5-mm-fits-singer-models-500a-503a Here is my video (part 2) for working on the winder which may be the place you heard me talk of the smaller size ruclips.net/video/P2ROdLM5zmE/видео.html Thanks for asking, and for watching my channel.
(P.S. someone may be selling the smaller one and saying it fits the 401A, which it does, and it works, but just looks weird. Many sellers, esp eBay, don't know the difference. Also, when they say it "fits" yes, it will fit on the pulley, but the working space for the tire on the 500A/503A is very tight, so you'll be much happier with the smaller tire)
I love your videos. Is there anyway to do a re wire on a Singer 306k? Mine is in need of it and would love to do it myself.
Hi, Sally, I've never even seen a model 306K, but IMO any sewing machine can be rewired. I don't even know if your machine has a light. Here is an example of replacing a cord on a foot pedal and wiring into the plug, just to give an idea ruclips.net/video/ZwMUYwFmahE/видео.html
Here is a free download showing some wiring diagrams for Singer machines from ISMACS, the International Sewing Machine Collectors' Society ismacs.net/singer_sewing_machine_company/manuals/sewing-machine-wiring-diagrams.pdf
You may be able to find a user group for your model and I know there are Singer vintage groups online, like Yahoo, Facebook, Etc.
Sorry, I can't help you more than that, but thanks for watching my channel.
@@andytubesewing1953 thank you for replying. I’ll look at the videos. I’m a member of the Singer swing needle group on Facebook but not
Much help there yet. I think I can get the light done. Main problem with it right now is it had 3 metal bands holding the socket together - made that way and not an add on by someone. I’ve got the two off but that third one is tiny and Bering a bugger about coming off.
@@AspenGlow2027 Best of luck to you. I think that is why those small bands are missing so often. I'm thinking people give up and cut them off. When I did the spotlight on my 99K the original ring was missing and I replaced it with a modern style snap ring as shown at 28:15 of this video ruclips.net/video/xNy0E3LVEHU/видео.html It worked well for me and at least it can be removed easier in the future if needed.
When you were successful at separating the brown knob from the flange thingy, what tools did you use to grab ahold of the two separate parts? I have small hands and can't see that threading it back onto the post and just pulling on the brown knob will do it. I need a way to really grab onto it. Thanks!
I did mention in the video that I've had a handful of the knobs that just would not separate from the flange piece no matter what I tried. I mention a few ways to loosen them starting @9:40 in the video. As far as tools the only thing I have used is 6" Diagonal Cutting Pliers. www.target.com/p/blue-ridge-tools-6-34-diagonal-cutting-pliers/-/A-78591361#lnk=sametab
It seems like an odd choice, I'm sure, but I used them for 30+ years at work and am familiar with them. When the knob and flange are stuck together and I've tried alcohol, boiling water, freezing, WD-40, and so forth without luck I have sometimes had success with heating the knob with a hairdryer and using the pliers. I put one pointy tip on the inside edge of the hole of the flange on the backside, and the other pointy tip on the outside edge of the flange. I use the wire plier because of the sharp edge that grips the aluminum flange. The trick is not to damage the inside edge of the flange by over squeezing and hurting the threads there. It's tricky. Holding the brown knob in my left hand and the plier in my right I will twist them in opposite directions, back and forth, trying to break the "seal" holding the two parts together. A viewer told me he used a drill bit as a ram and hammered the flange out the back of the brown knob. Placing the back of the knob on his flat workbench and using a drill bit that barely fit inside the brown knob opening in front, he tapped with a hammer until the flange fell inside the knob. He used an old drill bit and put the flat end that goes into the drill into the knob and against the front of the flange, and hammered on the point of the bit. (why you use an old, dull bit) I've never done that myself.
@@andytubesewing1953 You, sir, are a steely-eyed rocket man (Apollo 13 is one of my favorite movies). The pliers did not work for me but the drill bit trick did! Then, I watched your mini-series on the tension assembly. What a revelation. I had no idea how that worked and have been "fixing" tension by turning the knob, holding my mouth right, and when that didn't work, contemplating sacrificing a chicken. I followed your mini-series, took the whole thing apart, cleaned and fixed, put it all back together and it now works like a dream. My old Rocketeer and I thank you for your expertise and your ability to share it. Take care!
@@lindaestes8261 You made my weekend. Thank you for letting me know the results. I'll suggest the drill bit method more often now that I have confirmation it works. Happy sewing and thanks for not giving up on your Rocketeer. (I'm sure the chicken is grateful too.)
Do you answer questions and/or offer help with sewing machines? I have a singer 403a, that belonged to my great-grandmother - it's having an issue sewing. At first the thread wouldn't move thru the tensioner, so I took it off and cleaned it - it also wasn't sewing, either the top thread was a long piece or I could see the bobbin thread on top. The thread moves thru the tensioner now, but the top thread is still one long piece. Or it bunches the fabric up, or does a lovely combo of the 2. If you could direct me to a video or tell me what to adjust I would appreciate it :) thank you
The most complete tension video for model 403A (long) ruclips.net/video/4aqRScKOOsw/видео.html
Shorter version for general Singer Tension: ruclips.net/video/PSCY72bJ3x8/видео.html
The Stroke & Tension of the Check Spring on your model: ruclips.net/video/t3UqzYRo-cc/видео.html
Adjusting Bobbin Thread Tension on your type of bobbin holder: ruclips.net/video/bhcsfhaBRDo/видео.html
A complete series about your tension: ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKJaeFB_GW97NsW5GYM7KD9U
A free copy of the original Singer Instruction Manual for Model 403, 100 pages that include needle threading, bobbin case threading, tension adjustment, how to select the needle, thread, and stitch length based on the fabric you are sewing, cleaning and oiling the machine, using the controls, etc. can be downloaded here: www.singer.com/search/support?title=403
Thank you so much sir!!
@@beckywarren2583 👍 good luck
Do you have any suggestions for replacing the feeding dog gears on a Singer Stylist 534? Can I follow one of your other videos to fix mine? Thank you in advance
I have suggestions, yes, but I did not make videos of these models. Here is a list of videos that can help you: ruclips.net/user/results?search_query=replace+singer+sewing+machine+gears
There is also a 9-page guide written by Terry at tandtrepair.com that covers this: store.tandtrepair.com/513gg.html
Use coupon andy-h-yt for 20% off if you buy the guide (or anything from him) several of my viewers have used his guide and a couple of the videos to change out the gears of these models. Good Luck.
@@andytubesewing1953 Thank you so much I really appreciate this.
@@brenixon1577 Sure, and good luck.
Hi Andy, I have a question about controllers. I have the old carbon pile type button controller and have cleaned it out and had a number of broken piles. I sorted them out and I think I have 45 per side. I'm having trouble controlling the machine while I'm filling the bobbin, speeding up and slowing down like that. Not so much trouble with the actual sewing. Are the new electronic controllers more accurate and will they work well with my 503a? I see that Central Michigan Sewing Supply has a new replacement with a carbon pile control. Any ideas?
The new electronic controllers are incredibly accurate. Especially for slow or very steady speed. I've installed a few for customers who tend to sew on the slower style, like when doing free-hand sewing. ruclips.net/video/uiEvEFNZA58/видео.html The carbon stack pedals run hotter the slower they go b/c of the resistance to the power making them heat up. I used to be able to buy replacement carbons, but they are getting harder to find. In fact, last I checked, Terry is the only one selling them store.tandtrepair.com/618804003.html (use coupon andy-h-yt for 20% off) That tube has about 50 of the new carbons which are double thick, so they fill the old dual channel foot pedals also. IMO, the new carbon foot pedals will run warm and eventually have the same problem you found. Depending on the price difference I always have recommended an electronic pedal. They never get warm or hot, have superior control. You need a surge protector for it as you would any new electronic device. I used to buy ones like this b/c they came without cords and I could easily reuse the existing cords which often were color coded to the machine www.sewingpartsonline.com/foot-control-deluxe-universal-6098fc.aspx You may be able to find both types of pedals already wired for your model of machine (Singer) The new carbon pedals are usually cheaper though, so it's a personal choice. None of the new pedals work with the knee brackets of Singer cabinets without special modifications that you'd need to make. Do not buy a used carbon pedal online or without trying it first. It may be just as bad, or worse, than your old pedal. Good luck, Ralph, and thanks for watching my channel.
@@andytubesewing1953 Thanks so much Andy, I truly appreciate what you do for beginning seamsters and people with the older machines like me. I think I'll order one of the electronics. Thanks for the info.
@@ralphwatten2426 I'm glad you find my videos helpful, thank you. Always enjoy helping a fellow sewist with machine info.
I did not mention it, but some of the customers sewed barefoot or in socks, and could not take the heat even though the old pedal worked OK. The first lady asked me to build some kind of an insulated box for the pedal with a raised foot for her to push on, hehe. She sure loved her new electronic pedal.
@@andytubesewing1953 Yes, thanks for all your help. I've ordered the electronic controller for my 503a. I'm going to sew a replacement cover on my military back pack for my next project. Thanks-
Hi, I love your videos. I picked up a free 403a a week ago. I'm missing that brown knob on the tension. Can you please let me know where I might be able to buy one?
Wait... what? Did you mean you picked up a 503A? I've never seen a 403A with the "Brown knob".
It's a 403a missing the knob.
They look so much alike
@@nldcam OK, sorry if I'm confused. The factory tension on the 403A did not have a brown knob. If your machine has a tension unit like the one in the video you can find a replacement here: www.ebay.com/itm/154796992004?hash=item240a9ea604:g:0HAAAOSwRJth4w4i I don't know of anyone who just sells the knob or makes new knobs, so I've always had to buy a used one. You can see the original chrome knob of a 403A tension assembly in this video: ruclips.net/video/t3UqzYRo-cc/видео.html Maybe you are talking about the dial with the numbers on it? Either way, we have to buy used parts for most of the vintage tension units. I use eBay but there are other sites that sell used parts also. Good Luck.
@@nldcam ok
Why is there so little help with the Singer 500 Slant-o-magic Singer Sewing Machine? It seems to be ignored.
Oh, you have to know the passwords to see the 500A/503A videos.👀
Not really, just joking.😉 Models 500A/503A have a different body style but the same mechanical systems as the 401A/403A except for the handwheel and bobbin winder. There are many videos for them on YT. As an example I have 17 videos for Model 401A that can be mostly applied to model 500A: ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKLiDl9yFTP6mJgQmz5lj4NO
I have 27 videos for model 403A that can mostly be applied to the 503A:
ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKKyqvdDRwS-9MfLuwSNJTcg
Then I made 27 videos for model 503A that can be used for model 500A too: ruclips.net/p/PLsCOZgzzaiKJZaZn2zl3LsnV2d7UhrqvX
I tried to cover everything on the machines with those 71 videos. That does not count the videos for the motors and the foot pedals that are used by those 500A/503A models. If you'd like some original factory information about the Rocketeer models you can always download a free copy the the Service Manual in PDF format from the Sewing Dude: sewingdude.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/singer-500-service-manual.pdf\ Thanks for watching my channel.
I’ve got a stuck brown knob. Just took it out of a pot of hot water. Let’s see what happens🤦🏻♀️
Here's hoping!
Welcome back!!!
😀 Thanks very much ✨