Help with old Singer Sewing Machine

[LaxScrutiny]

My mum passed away earlier this month, and among other items I received a (probably) 1950's Singer Sewing Machine.

When it was at my mum's, the lid was off, and when we put it on it didn't seem to want to catch. For shipping by UPS I tied the lid on with rope. Now it seems the latches have caught, and I can't figure out how to get the damn thing open.

I can order a manual from Singer, but I need to have the serial number, which is, of course, inside. The photos show a small hole in the side which probably releases the catch. I've tried various screw drivers etc, but nothing seems to open it. I'll mention, one thing that was suggested to me was to press and release from the top, but this did nothing. So I'm stymied.

Although the cover has some scratches, it's in great shape overall and I don't want to damage it if can help it. So ideally I'd like to figure out how to open it properly. So far none of my relatives have a clue.

Anyone here ever had something similar and can offer some clues?

 

[Jadzia]

My mum inherited one of those, but it had clasps, not one of those square sockets.

My guess is that the square hole needs a key rotated in it, that will rotate and open the latch.

Can you slide a credit card between the lid and the base beneath that socket, possibly from right to left in the picture. It might be stiff and need some force, but if it the machine is made of cast iron there will be little risk of the plastic card doing any harm.

 

[LaxScrutiny]

In theory I think you have it, but I've been trying with a butter knife and they won't budge. I'll hunt around for something with a bit more leverage...

 

[starrchild]

If you have any Allen wrenches, try those and see if that does anything. Jadzia is probably right, there might have been a special wrench/screwdriver to open the case. Other than that, maybe check out a Singer website, or Singer board/form; they might be able to help you.

 

[Jadzia]

A wood pencil or a biro might fit into that socket (pointed end first) and provide enough grip to turn it open.

 

[LaxScrutiny]

I already snapped one screwdriver trying to jimmy it, it needs a special tool or key...

The Singer website is no good until I get the serial number.. from inside the case. I'm trying to find a website with some old machines but my google fu is lacking today.

 

[LaxScrutiny]

Well, I found this on Ebay, I hope it isn't the only way to open it...

I found a picture of one that is similar to what it looks like opened. Mine is slightly different, there is a removable lever that fits in a hole in the front of the base, you move the lever with your knee to operate the machine. Anyway, maybe this will spark someone's memory.

 

[LaxScrutiny]

Well, I ended up using good old fashioned brute force. I gently used a small wrecking bar and popped the locking side.

 

[jamestyler]

Good news!

And I'm glad to know that I'm not the only person who own an ancient piece of sewing technology

 

[LaxScrutiny]

Great, you can teach me how to use it!

Actually, now that I have the serial number I've found it's the "99k" built in 1951, and I downloaded the manual from Singer and printed it off.

I'm trying to find some neighbours who can give me a lesson or two. Hopefully a cute one..

 

[Michael_One]

Neat find, LAX Scrutiny! I myself have a 1902 treadle Singer; I'll pull it out and take a couple of pics. No wierd key required, but you do build up your leg muscles pumping the treadle!

 

[LaxScrutiny]

Neat find, LAX Scrutiny! I myself have a 1902 treadle Singer; I'll pull it out and take a couple of pics. No wierd key required, but you do build up your leg muscles pumping the treadle!

My mum had one of those when I was kid, I think it might have been her grandmum's. She only was rid of it because she moved and it was ridiculous to ship. I've read that the Singer machines basicly never wear out, and tons of these things are still running.

I'd love to get a treadle machine and turn it into a desktop computer case.

 

[Marc]

Neat find, LAX Scrutiny! I myself have a 1902 treadle Singer; I'll pull it out and take a couple of pics. No wierd key required, but you do build up your leg muscles pumping the treadle!

My mum had one of those when I was kid, I think it might have been her grandmum's. She only was rid of it because she moved and it was ridiculous to ship. I've read that the Singer machines basicly never wear out, and tons of these things are still running.

I'd love to get a treadle machine and turn it into a desktop computer case.

At which point some-one will call you an utter heathen and demand you be burnt at the stake for your sacrilege