Thank you for this video. My mum recently died and left me her singer 201k which she purchased in 1953 when she got married. It was working but sounded very clunky. I changed the band & oiled it as you instructed. I was not however brave enough to take out the bobbin - it now sounds so much better and when I hear it it brings back such happy memories of my childhood when she regularly used it to make clothes for us 😊
Brilliant machine! My Gran had a 201K for over 50 years with no trouble and I just bought my Mam a reconditioned one. Mam said she hadn’t used one since secondary school which was nearly 60 years ago, and she loves it!
Thank you so much for this video, I just bought a 1950s 201k that makes the nicest stitches ever but now I even know how to "care for it". Very clear and helpful video.
Thank you for this really helpful video Harry, I just got one of these beauties today and you have helped me get it going. I think because it is such a fantastic machine, I'll take it to a sewing machine repair shop and let them give it a once over as well. I'm hearing so many lovely things about this machine and I think I got a bargain too.
Well - Thank you for your advice… I have now purchased a 201K - my sewing machine repair man has reconditioned it for me - it is a lovely machine … now I have watched you oiling etc…I’ll have a go at keeping it in top condition. I have just made a leather skirt with old leather from a settee. Lovely machine!
Thank you so much for this video. I have my Grans old singer which was gifted to my mum then me. I've not used it since the early 90s when I used it for my home economics classes. Watching this has helped me remember a lot of what I was taught about machine maintenance and I feel confident in giving it an mot now and not needing to find a singer servicer (which is difficult in deepest darkest Cumbria) I love seeing old things still used and loved, so much easier to buy a new one but I know I'll get so much more pleasure from using my old family Singer :-)
I like your channel and the valuable information that you impart to help and educate people on the way to do many home adjustments. I do have a collection as a hobby. and I continue to learn and help people who do not understand the sewing machine. It's my pleasure to do so .God bless you.
Thank you for this great video! I have just received my aunt's singer which is exactly like this one and I had no idea on how to replace the belt and restore it since it is my very first sewing machine. You have literally saved me! Thank you so much!
Thanks for the compliment, but no I'm not a writer. Again, I really enjoy your videos. Since watching the hedge-laying one, I think I've looked at every video on the subject on TH-cam. Fascinating.
Harry, Harry, Harry can't thank you enough for this video. Hook and shutttle removed. All was great till reassembly and I was about to toss it out the window as I was 180 degrees off. On small detail made all the difference. You mentioned where the hook should be and it worked perfect. Thank you kind sir.
As others said it was very helpful for someone like myself, having an identical beast being able to put back together a complicated piece of fine mechanics without going to the professional serviceman. Only one complain about the part of a video. It was like watching a suspenseful detective story only to find out at the climax that the culprit is not showing his face after all so we don't know if the murderer was a gardener or someone else. The analogy is that you somehow show us your hands in a moment of great importance for a novice repairman instead of revealing us how you actually got that piece together. But I managed at the end anyway!
Thank you for an excellent video, I now have confidence in servicing my wife's 201k myself. I will keep a lookout for any more videos you have to offer on this great singer sewing machine.
Thank you so much for this video. I've just become the proud owner of a 201K sewing machine including the wooden case, someone threw it out left it by the dustbins. It has additional feet, bobbins, thread, a pack of 5 singer sewing machine needles purchased for £1. Amazing. I'll follow your instructions on how to clean it then I'll have to see how to turn it on. Or maybe you've already done a video on how it works?
Thank you so much for this video.I recently purchased a 201k and it didn’t sound happy! So with your video buy me I followed your lead. Hey presto! After a lot of crud removed, and some oil, it purrs like a dream. Thank you so much
I have a Singer identical to this, coming to me hopefully tomorrow, if the delivery service doesn't fall short. I'm so grateful to have found this. I have been using Marvel Mystery Oil for pneumatic tools on my sewing machines on all the pivot points. THings that get a bit more pressure get either Tri-Flow (with its Teflon particles in suspension, very nice) or a heavier oil that has molybdenum disulfide included. I'm interested in trying the moly oil in the hook race area, I think that using just a little bit fairly often will help impregnate the steel with moly and thus reduce wear and noise even more.
Interesting video Harry. My Dad worked in a shoe factory all his life and he was very good with sewing machines. Apparently I didn't inherit that gene. He would have loved seeing you work on those old machines. You are a man of many talents!
Thank you for posting this excellent video, I just picked up a 201P in need of TLC very cheaply at the markets, a lovely machine and your advice is really helpful. Love your workshop.
Nice Machine I to have one of these it’s a treadle version but I want to convert it to electric and also put it in a box my question to you is where can I get a tray for it to go into thank you
I found that to remove the bobbin retaining ring, it's easiest to take off the foot and undo the two screws and the walking plate retainer. This gives easier access and there is less chance of breaking the ring retaining springs. These are very fragile and snap off if you lever them out too far. I've only been able to get second hand replacements. I also use a syringe and a blunt drawing up needle to oil, and I use pneumatic tool oil.
Hello Harry, thanks for showing how to maintain the sawing machine. I have to do that on an old machine that haven't been oiled in decades... I suspect it may be it's first time!
Thought my motor was a bit weedy but will give everything a thorough clean and oil now to see if it makes a difference. Thrilled to bits with my 201K that cost me £26 (delivered!) and after your inspiration I think I'll be even more pleased
@@harryrogers turns out my motor is just pretty weedy (1949 model machine). Had a hell of a job after putting bobbin case back together again until I realised the tab on the carrier (18:29) wasn't located properly. It's been a learning morning but I'm back sewing again and can stop wasting thread. Might look at the motor upgrade from one of your other videos, or I could mount it onto an industrial table with a 1/2hp motor
Thank you for this super informative video ,I've just bought one of these machines from eBay, .After I've followed your advise on thoroughly cleaning and oiling, it is going to be placed into a sitting room cabinet, again bought of eBay). I reckon it will just about be bomb proof when placed in the cabinet which appears to be solid mahogany/ not veneered.. great vintage singer to add to the others l have collected. Woo woo
Hermoso y sabio señor, Dios bendiga su inteligencia, no entiendo el inglés pero me doy cuenta de lo que hace, sería bueno traducir a español gracias desde 🇺🇾
I only sew by hand due to the thick leather I use ,but I found this video very interesting may be some day I might try a sewer ,thank you for showing how a sewer works
Great video Harry, I love your confidence working with the components inside. I replayed the start just so I could compare the sound of the "before and after" :-)
That was very interesting. My cousin got my Grandmother's Singer and it's still going great. It's black with gold markings and on a treadle base. There have been a lot of childrens' clothes made and repaired on it.
Great video, Harry! I just added a 1953 201-2 and an even more unusual 1937 1200 (a 201-2 in an industrial-style table with a knee lift!) to my 11-machine collection. I haven't had the chance to crack these machines open yet, but this video will definitely help me when I do. Thanks!
I have one of these from an Opshop, its been making the same kind of sounds as shown in this video, thanks for this, when I have the time I feel a lot better at trying to lean it up, but I need to glue the motor, where the screws hold it, its stamped right off.
Hi Harry Great job, I have 7 old sewing machines! You are an inspiration, i'm going to take them out and start repairing, but I'm not patient enough like you unfortunately, I will let you know if I succeed to repair the first one. Thank you.
@@harryrogers hi Harry That's, exactly, what I need,good luck because I'm very clumsy with machines😀 from which part of the UK are you? I'm from Devon.
My favourite sewing machine ever. Just a quick observation about round belts. I have had the odd occasion where the round belt rubs on the underside of the bobbin winder bracket so tend to favour a V section replacement.
First of all,an excellent,very informative film. Yes, the engineering is outstanding on these machines. The cost of one new here in Michigan would have been equal to the cost of a good used car back in 1955. Here many get taken to charity thrift shops where they are sold for pennies on the dollar. I have several 201-2's,some of which I am converting to treadle or belt electric in lieu of the potted motor using derelict 15-90's as donors for the belt guard and handwheel required. As ibsoarin says, the potted motor 201-2 is what you find here.Very seldom is there ever a 201K or the aluminum version. I feel that perhaps at about the same time the slant needle series was being promoted more here. Another thing I have noticed , I have never seen a Japanese copy of a 201 series unlike the multitude of 15-90 copies.Again,great work!
thanks, very useful video. I have just bought a 1955 201k, in its wooden case with various extra "feet/mechanisms/cotton", with its original electrical 2 wire cord to a 3 round pin plug: electrician at B&Q advised 3 core 6 amp cable to earth to replace the two core, and standard 13mp plug, which I bought. He says that there is a risk of live current to cast body of machine otherwise. I also read on amazon that capacitors in foot pedal are old obsolete type, and kit to replace them is £19.95 ..... otherwise pedal has tendency to "smoke" with prolonged use? I will have the machine pat tested when its all done, cleaned and lubricated , belt replaced and new light bulb bought (inside machine is dusty and dry but very little wear). I've also the option to buy a Singer 220k, but only advantage I can see is that its lightweight and compact for transporting (and it was Singers most expensive machine in the mid-1950s).
I liked most of this video but I have a few comments about your recommendations and practices. First the oil you used is fine, although over oiling can also be a concern. BUT you recommended the use of 3-1 oil which would be a bad idea, as all oils are not created equal. 3-1 oil dries hard quickly and has much less slip than a true sewing machine or bearing oil. Second the gearing on these old Singers should be lubed and not oiled with the same lube used on the non sealed bearing Singer motors. Otherwise great info. I have heard that the round rubber ring belts put more stress on the motor than the replacement Belts, but I have not tested this issue.
Agreed 100%. 3-in-1 oil will eventually damage a machine, as will oiling when grease is required. In addition the motor should be maintained. The motor bushings/bearings will need to be re-lubricated. The brushes should also be inspected and the commutator cleaned. The motor maintenance should only be done by someone who is experienced at working with electrics. The belt installed was inappropriate and more importantly far too tight. It will ruin the bushings quickly for sure. Other tutorials on TH-cam show how to service a sewing machine without doing eventual harm.
Harry, I hope you do not mind me pointing out the oil hole on the front of the 201K pillar base below and to the left of the Singer medallion. That oil hole lubricates the bushing for the vertical jack shaft that connects the upper and lower horizontal drive shafts. The oil hole is seen at 24:03-24:37 of this video as a black dot.
I hope I can get the parts for mine. I have 2 singers, a 201k and another made in the 70's I think. Just gave the newer one a good oil up and it runs nicely! I can't sew for toffee but I just love learning on this machine.
I would recommend singer oil, it's not expensive and if it gets on the fabric you are sewing it washes out much easier than 3in1 or similar. Also the round belts are excellent, much better than the v belts but they do stretch so I always just pop it off the motor pulley when I am done with the machine, it stops the belts stretching and stops it putting pressure on the bearings.
3in1 household oil causes significant problems on sewing machines. It contains Naptha (In the USA) which floats the dirt and grime but then evaporates. The dirt and grime then reattaches to the machine parts and becomes a nasty plastic like brown coating that can seize up a vintage machine. In my opinion its a sneaky way to require you to use more oil. Thanks for pointing out the oil. Sewing machine oil has no additives and is both the proper viscosity and designed to be nonstaining to fabrics
Hello I have a 201k machine identical to yours apart from mine was in my nans attic for 50 years and a few of the screws etc are rusty and it has no table to sit in but all the parts are thier the lights and the original parts now i was wondering if people buy these in a state like mine where it needs cleaning up or wheater its got no value unless it is already refurbished yours is stunning
Good day I am enjoying watching your video it so interesting, maybe I have this sewing machines model I but my mom did not use it anymore because the sewing's tech said it has one part that have been lost i have been searching that parts. Any way thank you.
Hi Harry, just came by a 201K (black model) which failed its running test so followed all your advice. !) times more fluff etc ! But it still fails to stitch having carried out all o'hauling. New spring , new belt etc. It picks up the lower thread easily then fails to stitch. I'd be very grateful for any further advice please. Must thank you for all your leather work and sewing machine videos thus far! Looking forward to your advice though on this one. Best regards Howard
Very good video, thank you for that. I have a question though. I have done all these things to my machine and still slow. Can you tell me what foot pedal I should be used?
That's a beautiful machine, I have a singer machine, i bought it second hand, the original motor is there but it doesn't have a pulley, the foot controller and bulb holder . Is it possible to find them that side? I would love to have something like that. I love sewing.
Hi Harry, great videos. I have a question about the singer 201k…, when I see I’ve noticed the stitch adjuster lever is starting to move up by itself and I have to keep pushing it down. Wondering if you know how to stop this from happening please.
I have one of these arriving tomorrow so I am really grateful for the tips. I am so excited! Please could you advise me where to get the new rubber band for it - I have just bought the exact same model. Thank you.
I'm stuck with the motor belt... Great video, very helpful. I'm also trying to replace the motor belt on an identical machine with a very similar rubber one. And although it is only 5mm thick, it is so tight against the bobbin winder part its preventing the motor from turning the wheel. Any ideas?
@@harryrogers Its not related to the motor position, its getting stuck at the top where it goes under the metal bobbin winder component. This metal part cant be moved. Leaving a very narrow gap for the belt to pass through.... Most belts seem to be 5mm or more!
Just scored 201k made in 1955 with table (needs some work) from fleemarket. After 4-5 hours got it running it was completely Jammed now runs like a new machine. Whole set with lots of accessory was 20€ no case sadly. I have a question what kind of needle (possible to use normal?) with light leather and what is a good thread to use, example when making a simple wallet. Thanks to you I was able to see how much these old machines have, Cheers From Finland !!!
@@harryrogers Actually Have one, came with the machine but 90/14 Milward brand. Have to look for that thread only have their Silk thread now. Thanks !!!
Nice machine Harry! I have one the same, in black... It was in very poor condition when I got it, particularly in the bobbin case. But a few hrs with some WD40 and some 1200 grit sandpaper and all the rust is gone, looking and working almost like new. You might be able to guide me a bit though with the motor. My motor is a sealed unit like that one. It wasn't working well, so I opened the hard case. Mate, there was a colony of something living in there! It needed a good clean out. I did that, and sanded down the bushes so they contact better too. It works better, though still not getting a lot of power out of it. It kind of hums sometimes, and won't turn. Still need to replace the belt, but wondering if the motor is as good as it'll get or if there is more I can do?
NO, do not use 3 in1 oil, only use sewing machine oil or Tri-Flow. 3in1 and other house hold oils have additives that leave a varnish when dried up from sitting a long time inside the moving parts. Ask any sewing machine repair shop. I want that machine, Harry. LOL
What an excellent video and beautifully filmed and perfect audio. (A rare thing) A couple of small points; 3 in 1 is not recommended for sewing machines and due to the ready availability of Singer oil online there is no reason to use it. Secondly, I could not get one of those round rubber drive belts to fit on my 1960s machine because the round cross section protruded above the groove in the hand-wheel sufficiently to significantly interfere with the bobbin winder arm. How much clearance did you have?
Great video. Love your channel. Can you please tell me if there is a good upgrade for my SInger 15-90 motor? Currently, I have a 0.9 amp ALPHASEW motor. Im assuming there is an upgrade. Also, the belt is bad and I don't know the best belt to use. A band or the toothed bands Im seeing. Thank you. Rich Charleston SC USA.
Would it be wrong to lightly grease the helical gears with lithium grease? And wouldn't it make sense to remover the presser foot and the needle before working on the bobbin carrier mechanism?
Thanks so much for these videos. I have just purchased a singer 201K, and a 99K. One is running, one isn't yet. Could you tell me what types of needles and attachments fit them?
What size of bobbin wheel does this machine use? I have a singer 15k30 with an oversize wheel I believe it's a one inch wheel but cannot find a replacement, do you happen to know the correct size wheel? Thanks
hi harry i have a201k in mint condition and works great after i followed your instructions ,a friend has given me a singer 239 fashion mate circa 1968 its all metal very heavy and now works great due to fresh oil and new belt fitted are these machines any good i would only be using it for repairing canvas gun slips /fishing bags purely for myself any comments greatly appreciated
Ihave just picked aup one the same and will be using it for pigskine bag lining- what needle size and thread do you recommend. Iam in NZ and love your vids.
Hi I can't remember but the machine was fine for sewing two layers of upholstery leather...do bear in mind though that the main limitation will be thread thickness.
Great video. Looking for a 201k on Ebay and I've seen one with a knee operator. Do you know anything about these? Can it be used with a foot pedal also?
Hi I am not certain but I think it has a foot pedal attached to the side of the case and the knee operator arm presses on that...so I believe you can convert to standard foot pedal...but I am not certain...perhaps someone here can confirm.
Hello Harry, Thanks for making this video. What perfect timing...I'm currently working on my recent purchase of a Singer 201 which is completely seized. The belt is very loose and according to the instructions on the booklet and your video, is to release the screw. Now, that's where I'm completely stuck. Have been trying all methods, penetrant, tapping, heat, wd40, kerosene and even using a blade to scrap the area around the screw but the screw just won't budge. I tried to use a wrench, and pliers to maybe loosen the nut around the screw, still cant get it out. Any tips would be greatly appreciated. ps. your video is perfect for guiding me to restore my 201. Thanks
Thanks so much for posting this video ,, I wanted to ask ,, can a motor be put on these machines? or can the hand crank but put on the side instead of the front ? Thanks so so much and hope you can help :-)
I've just got one of these, but it's all so stiff the motor won't even turn it. Is there something I should be doing besides just constantly oiling it and hand cranking it a bit until it (hopefully) loosens up?
Hi difficult to say without seeing it, but I would check for any build up of tangled thread or dust accumulation around the flywheel and elsewhere...including under the machine, and perhaps try scraping off any debris from moving parts...you are doing the right thing with oiling...try and use a fine oil to penetrate through a bit...good luck.
It's a bit like comparing a modern car to a vintage one.....the new machines will have lots of useful features, the old may be more enjoyable to use, but that also depends on what you like.@@Ahmedahmedxyza
Thank you for this video. My mum recently died and left me her singer 201k which she purchased
in 1953 when she got married. It was working but sounded very clunky. I changed the band & oiled it as you instructed. I was not however brave enough to take out the bobbin - it now sounds so much better and when I hear it it brings back such happy memories of my childhood when she regularly used it to make clothes for us 😊
That's great...perhaps you should make something with it like a phone case...lots of vids on TH-cam!
We have the same experience with my mom decades ago of my childhood memories.
Brilliant machine! My Gran had a 201K for over 50 years with no trouble and I just bought my Mam a reconditioned one. Mam said she hadn’t used one since secondary school which was nearly 60 years ago, and she loves it!
Fantastic video! So hard to find such detailed explanation, AND absolutely clear camera work! Very grateful for your time.
Great video, Harry. I’ve cleaned the sticky bobbin area and oiled throughout. My 201 is now purring like a kitten again. Thank you 🙏
Excellent!
I use my mother's 201p and this is the perfect video tutorial for taking care of it. Thank you so much!
Just brought a 201p wasn’t going at all. I found your video and now it running fabulously. Thank you 🙏
Thank you so much for this video, I just bought a 1950s 201k that makes the nicest stitches ever but now I even know how to "care for it". Very clear and helpful video.
The 201k has a sound of its own. Hearing this took me back to my mother using hers when I was a boy.
Thank you for this really helpful video Harry, I just got one of these beauties today and you have helped me get it going. I think because it is such a fantastic machine, I'll take it to a sewing machine repair shop and let them give it a once over as well. I'm hearing so many lovely things about this machine and I think I got a bargain too.
Great demonstration of 201 service. Thank you very much.
Well - Thank you for your advice… I have now purchased a 201K - my sewing machine repair man has reconditioned it for me - it is a lovely machine … now I have watched you oiling etc…I’ll have a go at keeping it in top condition. I have just made a leather skirt with old leather from a settee. Lovely machine!
That sounds great Rachel
You sir, are a (sewing machine) life saver! Great video, great results.
Arthur Penta That's great Arthur...thanks.
Thank you so much for this video. I have my Grans old singer which was gifted to my mum then me. I've not used it since the early 90s when I used it for my home economics classes. Watching this has helped me remember a lot of what I was taught about machine maintenance and I feel confident in giving it an mot now and not needing to find a singer servicer (which is difficult in deepest darkest Cumbria) I love seeing old things still used and loved, so much easier to buy a new one but I know I'll get so much more pleasure from using my old family Singer :-)
I bought a 201K today and feel confident to give it a good clean and oil thanks to your video
I like your channel and the valuable information that you impart to help and educate people on the way to do many home adjustments. I do have a collection as a hobby. and I continue to learn and help people who do not understand the sewing machine. It's my pleasure to do so .God bless you.
.
Thanks very much
Great video. I just cleaned and changed the belt. Wow wow wow. It’s now running fabulously. It’s was so dirty and dry. Poor thing.
Thank you for this great video! I have just received my aunt's singer which is exactly like this one and I had no idea on how to replace the belt and restore it since it is my very first sewing machine. You have literally saved me! Thank you so much!
Thank you for making this video! I have just bought a 201k and cleaned the bobbin area!
Thanks for the video. I grew up up my mom sewing all the time. The sound of the machine brought me back. I could almost smell the oil.
John...thats very descriptive and evocative...are you a writer...perhaps you should be!
Thanks for the compliment, but no I'm not a writer. Again, I really enjoy your videos. Since watching the hedge-laying one, I think I've looked at every video on the subject on TH-cam. Fascinating.
Harry, Harry, Harry can't thank you enough for this video. Hook and shutttle removed. All was great till reassembly and I was about to toss it out the window as I was 180 degrees off. On small detail made all the difference. You mentioned where the hook should be and it worked perfect. Thank you kind sir.
That's great John...I had a similar thing and a fellow TH-cam person helped, so glad to help you.
I've just finished making some chair seat cushions on my 201k and was thinking my machine was a little bit noisy...thanks for the video...most useful!
Mine arrived and your video has been a godsend. Thank you!
As others said it was very helpful for someone like myself, having an identical beast being able to put back together a complicated piece of fine mechanics without going to the professional serviceman. Only one complain about the part of a video. It was like watching a suspenseful detective story only to find out at the climax that the culprit is not showing his face after all so we don't know if the murderer was a gardener or someone else. The analogy is that you somehow show us your hands in a moment of great importance for a novice repairman instead of revealing us how you actually got that piece together.
But I managed at the end anyway!
Thank you for an excellent video, I now have confidence in servicing my wife's 201k myself. I will keep a lookout for any more videos you have to offer on this great singer sewing machine.
Thank you for this video. I bought a 1953 201k on eBay last night so this will be helpful when it finally arrives.
Thank you so much for this video. I've just become the proud owner of a 201K sewing machine including the wooden case, someone threw it out left it by the dustbins. It has additional feet, bobbins, thread, a pack of 5 singer sewing machine needles purchased for £1. Amazing. I'll follow your instructions on how to clean it then I'll have to see how to turn it on. Or maybe you've already done a video on how it works?
Lucky! I hope you have a great time with your machine, they are very good.
You lucky devil! Why don't I have finds like that!
Such a keen bit of engineering those old machines are! She really sounds nice now. Thanks for the video Harry. Very much enjoyed it.
Shelly Stone Thanks Shelly
Thank you so much for this video.I recently purchased a 201k and it didn’t sound happy! So with your video buy me I followed your lead. Hey presto! After a lot of crud removed, and some oil, it purrs like a dream. Thank you so much
Thanks that's great.
I have a Singer identical to this, coming to me hopefully tomorrow, if the delivery service doesn't fall short. I'm so grateful to have found this.
I have been using Marvel Mystery Oil for pneumatic tools on my sewing machines on all the pivot points. THings that get a bit more pressure get either Tri-Flow (with its Teflon particles in suspension, very nice) or a heavier oil that has molybdenum disulfide included. I'm interested in trying the moly oil in the hook race area, I think that using just a little bit fairly often will help impregnate the steel with moly and thus reduce wear and noise even more.
Thank you very much for your video. Great explanations with fantastic camera angles. Absolutely very informative and practical for my Singer 201k.
Thanks Marcelo
Interesting video Harry. My Dad worked in a shoe factory all his life and he was very good with sewing machines. Apparently I didn't inherit that gene. He would have loved seeing you work on those old machines. You are a man of many talents!
Ron Sites Hello Ron...sounfs like your dad would have been a very interesting person to have a chat with. All the best Harry
Thanks Harry,,just love my 201...Plan on doing the hook cleaning. Easy to see that you have the love of these old machines I have. Keep em happy happy
Thank you for posting this excellent video, I just picked up a 201P in need of TLC very cheaply at the markets, a lovely machine and your advice is really helpful. Love your workshop.
i got an old vigorelli on scrapyard years ago very nice machine too! very relaxing video thanks
Nice Machine I to have one of these it’s a treadle version but I want to convert it to electric and also put it in a box my question to you is where can I get a tray for it to go into thank you
Hi there are several on Ebay UK for under £25
I found that to remove the bobbin retaining ring, it's easiest to take off the foot and undo the two screws and the walking plate retainer.
This gives easier access and there is less chance of breaking the ring retaining springs. These are very fragile and snap off if you lever them out too far. I've only been able to get second hand replacements. I also use a syringe and a blunt drawing up needle to oil, and I use pneumatic tool oil.
Thanks for the tips.
Hello Harry, thanks for showing how to maintain the sawing machine. I have to do that on an old machine that haven't been oiled in decades... I suspect it may be it's first time!
Thought my motor was a bit weedy but will give everything a thorough clean and oil now to see if it makes a difference. Thrilled to bits with my 201K that cost me £26 (delivered!) and after your inspiration I think I'll be even more pleased
That's great thanks
@@harryrogers turns out my motor is just pretty weedy (1949 model machine). Had a hell of a job after putting bobbin case back together again until I realised the tab on the carrier (18:29) wasn't located properly. It's been a learning morning but I'm back sewing again and can stop wasting thread. Might look at the motor upgrade from one of your other videos, or I could mount it onto an industrial table with a 1/2hp motor
Thank you for this super informative video ,I've just bought one of these machines from eBay, .After I've followed your advise on thoroughly cleaning and oiling, it is going to be placed into a sitting room cabinet, again bought of eBay). I reckon it will just about be bomb proof when placed in the cabinet which appears to be solid mahogany/ not veneered.. great vintage singer to add to the others l have collected. Woo woo
Hermoso y sabio señor, Dios bendiga su inteligencia, no entiendo el inglés pero me doy cuenta de lo que hace, sería bueno traducir a español gracias desde 🇺🇾
Brilliant video, very helpful. I’ve got a 201k 1958 and I love it. Many thanks for sharing your knowledge.
I only sew by hand due to the thick leather I use ,but I found this video very interesting may be some day I might try a sewer ,thank you for showing how a sewer works
gwynne clark Thanks Gwynne.
Great video Harry, I love your confidence working with the components inside. I replayed the start just so I could compare the sound of the "before and after" :-)
That was very interesting. My cousin got my Grandmother's Singer and it's still going great. It's black with gold markings and on a treadle base. There have been a lot of childrens' clothes made and repaired on it.
Ah a treadle Brendan....they are great.
@@harryrogers ج
Great video Harry. I look forward to seeing the next 201K video on stitching.
Great video, Harry! I just added a 1953 201-2 and an even more unusual 1937 1200 (a 201-2 in an industrial-style table with a knee lift!) to my 11-machine collection. I haven't had the chance to crack these machines open yet, but this video will definitely help me when I do. Thanks!
thejasonofalltrades sounds like a great collection....I am limited by space which is just as well!
I have one of these from an Opshop, its been making the same kind of sounds as shown in this video, thanks for this, when I have the time I feel a lot better at trying to lean it up, but I need to glue the motor, where the screws hold it, its stamped right off.
Hi Harry
Great job, I have 7 old sewing machines! You are an inspiration, i'm going to take them out and start repairing, but I'm not patient enough like you unfortunately, I will let you know if I succeed to repair the first one. Thank you.
That's great...good luck.
@@harryrogers hi Harry
That's, exactly, what I need,good luck because I'm very clumsy with machines😀 from which part of the UK are you? I'm from Devon.
Thanks again harry. I have just won a sowing machine for 50 pounds
William Hector That's good William.
Thanks Harry, very helpful indeed.
My favourite sewing machine ever. Just a quick observation about round belts. I have had the odd occasion where the round belt rubs on the underside of the bobbin winder bracket so tend to favour a V section replacement.
First of all,an excellent,very informative film. Yes, the engineering is outstanding on these machines. The cost of one new here in Michigan would have been equal to the cost of a good used car back in 1955. Here many get taken to charity thrift shops where they are sold for pennies on the dollar. I have several 201-2's,some of which I am converting to treadle or belt electric in lieu of the potted motor using derelict 15-90's as donors for the belt guard and handwheel required. As ibsoarin says, the potted motor 201-2 is what you find here.Very seldom is there ever a 201K or the aluminum version. I feel that perhaps at about the same time the slant needle series was being promoted more here. Another thing I have noticed , I have never seen a Japanese copy of a 201 series unlike the multitude of 15-90 copies.Again,great work!
Thanks John..thats very interesting and I appreciate you taking the time to comment. Regards Harry
thanks, very useful video. I have just bought a 1955 201k, in its wooden case with various extra "feet/mechanisms/cotton", with its original electrical 2 wire cord to a 3 round pin plug: electrician at B&Q advised 3 core 6 amp cable to earth to replace the two core, and standard 13mp plug, which I bought. He says that there is a risk of live current to cast body of machine otherwise. I also read on amazon that capacitors in foot pedal are old obsolete type, and kit to replace them is £19.95 ..... otherwise pedal has tendency to "smoke" with prolonged use? I will have the machine pat tested when its all done, cleaned and lubricated , belt replaced and new light bulb bought (inside machine is dusty and dry but very little wear). I've also the option to buy a Singer 220k, but only advantage I can see is that its lightweight and compact for transporting (and it was Singers most expensive machine in the mid-1950s).
Do take a look at this video I did on the motor upgrade:
th-cam.com/video/T5H2l6TRnA8/w-d-xo.html
I liked most of this video but I have a few comments about your recommendations and practices. First the oil you used is fine, although over oiling can also be a concern. BUT you recommended the use of 3-1 oil which would be a bad idea, as all oils are not created equal. 3-1 oil dries hard quickly and has much less slip than a true sewing machine or bearing oil. Second the gearing on these old Singers should be lubed and not oiled with the same lube used on the non sealed bearing Singer motors. Otherwise great info. I have heard that the round rubber ring belts put more stress on the motor than the replacement Belts, but I have not tested this issue.
InTheMist Thanks.
Agreed 100%. 3-in-1 oil will eventually damage a machine, as will oiling when grease is required.
In addition the motor should be maintained. The motor bushings/bearings will need to be re-lubricated. The brushes should also be inspected and the commutator cleaned. The motor maintenance should only be done by someone who is experienced at working with electrics.
The belt installed was inappropriate and more importantly far too tight. It will ruin the bushings quickly for sure.
Other tutorials on TH-cam show how to service a sewing machine without doing eventual harm.
Thank you so much, really helpful 😊
Harry,
I hope you do not mind me pointing out the oil hole on the front of the 201K pillar base below and to the left of the Singer medallion. That oil hole lubricates the bushing for the vertical jack shaft that connects the upper and lower horizontal drive shafts.
The oil hole is seen at 24:03-24:37 of this video as a black dot.
Not at all ...you make very helpful and valuable comments to help all of us.
I hope I can get the parts for mine. I have 2 singers, a 201k and another made in the 70's I think. Just gave the newer one a good oil up and it runs nicely!
I can't sew for toffee but I just love learning on this machine.
I would recommend singer oil, it's not expensive and if it gets on the fabric you are sewing it washes out much easier than 3in1 or similar. Also the round belts are excellent, much better than the v belts but they do stretch so I always just pop it off the motor pulley when I am done with the machine, it stops the belts stretching and stops it putting pressure on the bearings.
3in1 household oil causes significant problems on sewing machines. It contains Naptha (In the USA) which floats the dirt and grime but then evaporates. The dirt and grime then reattaches to the machine parts and becomes a nasty plastic like brown coating that can seize up a vintage machine. In my opinion its a sneaky way to require you to use more oil. Thanks for pointing out the oil. Sewing machine oil has no additives and is both the proper viscosity and designed to be nonstaining to fabrics
Always use clear sewing machine oil, never 3in1.
hope long life for the engine & who drives it, amen....
Nice Machine....👍👍👍
Hello I have a 201k machine identical to yours apart from mine was in my nans attic for 50 years and a few of the screws etc are rusty and it has no table to sit in but all the parts are thier the lights and the original parts now i was wondering if people buy these in a state like mine where it needs cleaning up or wheater its got no value unless it is already refurbished yours is stunning
I would guess not much value...take a look at EBay to get an idea...maybe £20...I don't know.
Good day I am enjoying watching your video it so interesting, maybe I have this sewing machines model I but my mom did not use it anymore because the sewing's tech said it has one part that have been lost i have been searching that parts. Any way thank you.
Thanks Marky.
@@harryrogers your welcome
Awesome video! Thank you so much for what you do :)
We have also that model. It is still in used today. My mom bought it in 1960 at 800 Phil pesos.
Hi Harry, just came by a 201K (black model) which failed its running test so followed all your advice. !) times more fluff etc ! But it still fails to stitch having carried out all o'hauling. New spring , new belt etc. It picks up the lower thread easily then fails to stitch. I'd be very grateful for any further advice please. Must thank you for all your leather work and sewing machine videos thus far! Looking forward to your advice though on this one. Best regards Howard
Sounds like you need to check out the TH-cam videos on adjusting the timing.
Very good video, thank you for that. I have a question though. I have done all these things to my machine and still slow. Can you tell me what foot pedal I should be used?
Hello I don't know but you can buy upgraded motor sets.
That's a beautiful machine, I have a singer machine, i bought it second hand, the original motor is there but it doesn't have a pulley, the foot controller and bulb holder . Is it possible to find them that side? I would love to have something like that. I love sewing.
Hi Harry, great videos. I have a question about the singer 201k…, when I see I’ve noticed the stitch adjuster lever is starting to move up by itself and I have to keep pushing it down. Wondering if you know how to stop this from happening please.
Some of them have a knob you can turn to lock position...but not all!
I have one of these arriving tomorrow so I am really grateful for the tips. I am so excited! Please could you advise me where to get the new rubber band for it - I have just bought the exact same model. Thank you.
Hi Kerry, Ebay has them as will most sewing shops...enjoy!
@@harryrogers Thanks for your speedy response. Ebay it will be as there are no sewing shops around here unfortunately.
Any chance u can do a quick video on timing etc thanku
I'm stuck with the motor belt... Great video, very helpful. I'm also trying to replace the motor belt on an identical machine with a very similar rubber one. And although it is only 5mm thick, it is so tight against the bobbin winder part its preventing the motor from turning the wheel. Any ideas?
Can you undo the motor bracket, and move the motor...if that helps?
@@harryrogers Its not related to the motor position, its getting stuck at the top where it goes under the metal bobbin winder component. This metal part cant be moved. Leaving a very narrow gap for the belt to pass through.... Most belts seem to be 5mm or more!
Brilliant. Thank you
That was great.
Just scored 201k made in 1955 with table (needs some work) from fleemarket. After 4-5 hours got it running it was completely Jammed now runs like a new machine. Whole set with lots of accessory was 20€ no case sadly. I have a question what kind of needle (possible to use normal?) with light leather and what is a good thread to use, example when making a simple wallet. Thanks to you I was able to see how much these old machines have, Cheers From Finland !!!
Best if you can get hold of standard leather (leder) needles. Gutterman upholstery thread is good.
@@harryrogers Actually Have one, came with the machine but 90/14 Milward brand. Have to look for that thread only have their Silk thread now. Thanks !!!
@@harryrogers Guterman M 782 polyester for example?? I remember you using bonded nylon in some video with Singer 201 ??
@@OriginalFinnish22 Hi Yes spot on.
Do you know if the potted motor from the 201k-2 can be fitted on this machine?
Nice machine Harry! I have one the same, in black... It was in very poor condition when I got it, particularly in the bobbin case. But a few hrs with some WD40 and some 1200 grit sandpaper and all the rust is gone, looking and working almost like new.
You might be able to guide me a bit though with the motor. My motor is a sealed unit like that one. It wasn't working well, so I opened the hard case. Mate, there was a colony of something living in there! It needed a good clean out. I did that, and sanded down the bushes so they contact better too. It works better, though still not getting a lot of power out of it. It kind of hums sometimes, and won't turn. Still need to replace the belt, but wondering if the motor is as good as it'll get or if there is more I can do?
I assume the commutator is clean, and the gaps between the copper sheets? Perhaps someone else here can suggest anything else?
NO, do not use 3 in1 oil, only use sewing machine oil or Tri-Flow. 3in1 and other house hold oils have additives that leave a varnish when dried up from sitting a long time inside the moving parts. Ask any sewing machine repair shop. I want that machine, Harry. LOL
What an excellent video and beautifully filmed and perfect audio. (A rare thing) A couple of small points; 3 in 1 is not recommended for sewing machines and due to the ready availability of Singer oil online there is no reason to use it. Secondly, I could not get one of those round rubber drive belts to fit on my 1960s machine because the round cross section protruded above the groove in the hand-wheel sufficiently to significantly interfere with the bobbin winder arm. How much clearance did you have?
Great video. Love your channel. Can you please tell me if there is a good upgrade for my SInger 15-90 motor? Currently, I have a 0.9 amp ALPHASEW motor. Im assuming there is an upgrade. Also, the belt is bad and I don't know the best belt to use. A band or the toothed bands Im seeing. Thank you. Rich Charleston SC USA.
I would ask at a sewing shop, I would imagine there is as you have a good selection of goods in the USA. Best wishes Harry
Would it be wrong to lightly grease the helical gears with lithium grease? And wouldn't it make sense to remover the presser foot and the needle before working on the bobbin carrier mechanism?
Are the internals the same as the earlier 201K? Mine is a 1952 machine and has the black cast iron case.
Harry, hi from Australia 👋🏼 how do you make your machine so lovely and shiny?
Thanks so much for these videos. I have just purchased a singer 201K, and a 99K. One is running, one isn't yet. Could you tell me what types of needles and attachments fit them?
Hi...the needles are standard domestic and you can download a manual from various places online.
@@harryrogers Cheers!
Is it possible to convert a knee lift 201 to a pedal control.
What size of bobbin wheel does this machine use? I have a singer 15k30 with an oversize wheel I believe it's a one inch wheel but cannot find a replacement, do you happen to know the correct size wheel? Thanks
Did you have the covers off all the bevel drives and gear grease applied?
Thank you!
Hello, great video, very interesting. Can you give me a link to buy the belt model you use or measure? thank you
I think I got one with the motor from Bedford Sewing Machines?
hi harry i have a201k in mint condition and works great after i followed your instructions ,a friend has given me a singer 239 fashion mate circa 1968 its all metal very heavy and now works great due to fresh oil and new belt fitted are these machines any good i would only be using it for repairing canvas gun slips /fishing bags purely for myself any comments greatly appreciated
Arthur Milton sorry Arthur I am not familiar with that one but it looks robust.
I've got one with bent cotton reel spindle can I hit it with hammer to straighten it or will it snap. Happened in transit. Thanks
I think you should be ok as it must be a bit malleable to bend....but at your risk!!
Ihave just picked aup one the same and will be using it for pigskine bag lining- what needle size and thread do you recommend. Iam in NZ and love your vids.
Hi thick upholstery thread.
2020, thanks, very learning experiance!
Gorgeous machine. I have one as a hand crank. Do you get the ones with the potted motor so no belt?
Hi no just belts in the UK! Rgds Harry
How many layers of leather did you manage to sew through eventually?
Hi I can't remember but the machine was fine for sewing two layers of upholstery leather...do bear in mind though that the main limitation will be thread thickness.
@@harryrogers i want to sew a box junction on 3 layers of polypropylene webbing. Do you think the 201k will handle it?
@@MrFarmax Give it a go...it will not be so strong due to thinner thread but the machine might just do it????
Great video. Looking for a 201k on Ebay and I've seen one with a knee operator. Do you know anything about these? Can it be used with a foot pedal also?
Hi I am not certain but I think it has a foot pedal attached to the side of the case and the knee operator arm presses on that...so I believe you can convert to standard foot pedal...but I am not certain...perhaps someone here can confirm.
Hello Harry, Thanks for making this video. What perfect timing...I'm currently working on my recent purchase of a Singer 201 which is completely seized. The belt is very loose and according to the instructions on the booklet and your video, is to release the screw. Now, that's where I'm completely stuck. Have been trying all methods, penetrant, tapping, heat, wd40, kerosene and even using a blade to scrap the area around the screw but the screw just won't budge. I tried to use a wrench, and pliers to maybe loosen the nut around the screw, still cant get it out. Any tips would be greatly appreciated. ps. your video is perfect for guiding me to restore my 201. Thanks
I guess you have tried hitting it with a hammer and screwdriver to shock and vibrate it loose...sounds like you are doing all the right things.
@@harryrogers Hi Harry, yes, yes I've tried ALL KNOWN tricks including a power drill, any tips? Ta
Thanks so much for posting this video ,, I wanted to ask ,, can a motor be put on these machines?
or can the hand crank but put on the side instead of the front ?
Thanks so so much and hope you can help :-)
i have this sewing machine. In this matchine light plug is there and foot paddle is not included. now ,for foot controller what can I do?
Hi probably buy a new motor with pedal.
I've just got one of these, but it's all so stiff the motor won't even turn it. Is there something I should be doing besides just constantly oiling it and hand cranking it a bit until it (hopefully) loosens up?
Hi difficult to say without seeing it, but I would check for any build up of tangled thread or dust accumulation around the flywheel and elsewhere...including under the machine, and perhaps try scraping off any debris from moving parts...you are doing the right thing with oiling...try and use a fine oil to penetrate through a bit...good luck.
@@harryrogers Thanks Harry! Feels like it's loosen up a great deal already so I'm hopeful :)
Hi, can this be used for delicate fabric? Thanks
@@Ahmedahmedxyza It's good for dressmaking, and I have used for silk.
Thank you, which is better , this machine or one od the modern singers@@harryrogers
It's a bit like comparing a modern car to a vintage one.....the new machines will have lots of useful features, the old may be more enjoyable to use, but that also depends on what you like.@@Ahmedahmedxyza