Any info on this Singer

**avi** · 07-05-2011, 08:19

My mother in law just offered me this machine. I think its a Singer 201 (Model number is Af399678) but I don't know anything else about it..I know it needs a new power cord so I haven't been able to start it up...however it looks very clean and doesn't seem to have much dust buildup (on the outside). Does anyone know where I can download a copy of the user manual? I know singer has them on the website but also heard that there are places online that have free ones. Anyone know if this is a good machine?

Thanks!!

**KerMegan** · 07-05-2011, 09:08

for the cord, check your local version of yellow pages for 'sewing machine repair'; or 'quilting shop' which ought/will have somebody who knows a local repair guy. (you might have to escalate your question past the counter help to the Manager/owner, but they will know.) KM (who frequently drools over the machines 'decorating' her local shop)

**pedro** · 07-05-2011, 09:10

Model # will be on plate below Singer oval logo. Af399678 is the serial #. It is a 201, made in Elizabethtown, NJ.
201s are good machines. Exterior dirt doesn't mean as much as interior

Here's the manual. http://www.ismacs.net/singer/manuals/201.pdf

Clean it, lube it using Singer oil and grease. Do not use 3-in-1 oil! Oil sparingly. Spare parts are available for very reasonable prices.

**gdw** · 07-05-2011, 09:10

It is a 201-2 and they are one of the best machines Singer produced. Here's a link to the manual:
http://www.ismacs.net/singer_sewing_...ine-manual.pdf
Power cord:
http://shop.sew-classic.com/Cord-Sin...ORE-SCE122.htm

**avi** · 07-05-2011, 09:27

Thanks for the manuals and the links!!

it is housed in a large wooden cabinet...does anyone know if it can removed from the housing and used on its own? I live in an apartment and have some space issues.

Thanks!!

**Aven** · 07-05-2011, 15:03

I can't see from the pictures and the manual doesn't show it, but if the motor is mounted above the table top, you can ditch the cabinet. If it hangs below, you're pretty much stuck with dedicated cabinet of some sort.

**gdw** · 07-05-2011, 15:04

It can be used without the cabinet. Loosen the two small screws on the underside of the machine which attach it to the hinges and it will pull free from the cabinet.

**avi** · 07-06-2011, 07:17

Thanks GDW...I didnt think it weighed that much..but it came right out...

She also asked if I would want to use her Singer 247C (she stopped sewing recently) and I was looking online for the manual but was only able to find the parts list. Do you know where I can download it from? ismacs.net only has the older ones.

Thanks again!

**Ramblinrev** · 07-06-2011, 07:20

Originally Posted by gdw

It can be used without the cabinet. Loosen the two small screws on the underside of the machine which attach it to the hinges and it will pull free from the cabinet.

STOP..... It may not be that simple. Then again it might be. You will want to check and see if the legs on the machine hold the workings above the table top. If so you can use it as a stand alone. If not... you will need a cabinet of some sort. It could just be a box made to support the machine bed. Using the machine without a cabinet puts it that much closer to the dust and gunk on the table so cleanliness is going to be even more important. The working are still exposed even in a cabinet but it is harder to suck dust and dog hair from the floor than from a table just 1" away.

**gargoyle** · 07-06-2011, 07:35

You can replace the cord yourself, or find a qualified friend to do the work. Any hardware store will appropriate replacement cords, if you know what your looking for.
If the machine has been sitting for years, a tune up would be recommended. But theres not much to go wrong with a solid steel model like this. And keeping the table will improve resale value, IMO.
The machine is a beaut! And you will be able to give it to your grandkids.