1910 singer red eye 66 sewing machine parts slide plate

You’ll need a side clamping presser bar from a Singer 66 parts machine. I know the Singer 66/99/185 pretty well by now.I found text directions for the conversion on the Treadle On site, but I couldn’t find any pictures of the process, so I’m writing up a tutorial on how I did it. I find it very satisfying to clean and oil these machines because they make the nicest straight stitch. Probably because I, too, am a red head (still, can you believe THAT?) She belonged in Nancy's family but it was time for her to move on so she came home to me. I recommend making sure that you have good tools when you work on old sewing machines. I used common screw drivers when I first started. Finally this summer I bought a set of Chapman hollow ground screw driver bits.

Since I have at least ten if not more sewing machines to fix up I figured it was time. Rain Noe's blog for more information about screw driver bits. When removing a screw it is so important not to bugger up the head. Singer screws have unique threads so just any old screw will not do. The best way is to apply downward pressure toward the screw hole FIRMLY as you turn your driver.

If it doesn’t go readily, don’t force it. Chapman bits will break before they break the head off of the screw. If you cannot get the screw loose with firm pressure and firm turning, wait. I will take responsibility for that nasty looking screw. It started out looking a bit sorry, that should have been a clue. When I take apart a machine for cleaning I like to have several different containers to keep parts organized. That way I can keep the corresponding screws with each part.

1910 singer red eye 66 sewing machine parts slide plate