Why won't the stitch length dial/knob from my "Nelco Sierra 234F" sewing machine move?
By Olga
We have the exact same model and problem. I (husband) fixed it by gently moving the nob with a plumber's wrench protecting it with a rubber thingy to open jars - not elegant but it works! Now my wife will need a plumber's wrench in her sewing kit :-)
Ask a QuestionHere are the questions asked by community members. Read on to see the answers provided by the ThriftyFun community or ask a new question.
How do I thread my machine? Where is C and F?
Machines vary a little bit but this is the basic process:
- Place the thread spool onto the spool pin.
- Wrap the thread around the thread guide.
I have a Nelco sam3b-3 machine. When the reverse button is pushed in, it will sew in reverse. However when released, the machine will not return to forward sewing.
I can manually fix the problem inside the machine to make it return to forward sewing.You probably have a broken gear or lever. Old machines have metal parts, not plastic and are generally worth fixing.
Machines often stick in reverse when they have been stored for long periods, it is caused by the lubricants becoming "gummy" or looked varnish. Before you spend money on a repair try this simple remedy, open the top (usually two screws) and warm the gears worth a hair dryer, this will frequently free it up.
I have a Nelco Ultra Buttonhole that is frozen. This machine belonged to my mother. She was a seamstress and used this machine for years. I don't know how or what happened to the machine but nothing will move. The motor runs fine when disengaged.
By Jerry from Belfair, WA
You need to take this machine to a qualified repair tech - don't take it apart any farther than you already have and be sure you get all the parts to the tech or he/she will have to charge you to replace the missing parts.
I do vintage machine repair here in Scotland for my Sewing 101 students. I can't see anything wrong with your mum's machine from the photo you've posted - because the problem is inside, under the head cover.
More than likely the silicone on one of the gears has dried and cracked but without getting the cover off and being able to see the machine up close and in person I can't be sure.
Please. Save this gracious elder stateswoman of sewing and get her to a trained repair tech who has the skills, tools, and access to parts needed to keep your machine sewing.
I want to change the belt on a Nelco A-509-3 sewing machine I picked up at a thrift store. After cleaning it up, I was able to wind a bobbin, beautifully by the way, I have the bobbin winder back in the proper position. I threaded the machine, but when I try to sew on it, it moves very slowly even with my foot all the way down on the pedal.
I'm thinking that the belt might be slipping if it's dried out. The belt is encased inside the side of the machine and I can get the side partially off, but there is a button on that side for turning on the light. I do have a manual for it and there is nothing about replacing the belt. Thanks.By Suzan
I'm not familiar with that make and model but after several years of doing vintage sewing machines (mainly Singers) I've learned if the user manual doesn't show the user how to do something it means the user shouldn't try to do it.
Take the machine to a qualified repair tech. Please.
A repair tech has the tools and knowledge to change that belt for you in under ten minutes. More importantly, the repair tech will know if the sluggishness of the machine is indeed the belt at all - thereby possibly saving you some fret and money - instead of randomly changing parts, by going straight to the problem, solving it, and getting your machine back to sewing, your repair bill will be lighter.
I am replacing the belt on my Nelco 1804B. How to remove the shield?
I have a Nelco Sierra model# 234 and serial #3956 and need a replacement light bulb - it is missing. What kind of light bulb is compatible with this sewing machine?
Sometimes you can find a generic bulb for these older models but I like to use the true sewing machine bulbs.
Do you have your manual? I believe it would have the type of bulb you need listed so you could order the right one.
You can probably call your local Sears Service Center (use your zip code) and ask as they probably can order one for you.
There are several places online that sell parts (may be a generic but probably for a sewing machine) and many also have a manual (may have to purchase a manual). Most sites require you to join but they are free memberships.
www.sewingpart.com/
sdroasklr.mystarship.com/
Here is the best site that I have found for 'just sewing' and I think you will love it so please join and let them help you find what you need. This is one cool site for sewers!
My Nelco SZA 2211 needs repair after every project. I'm sewing simple surgical masks. But the wheel that advances the needle slips and spins. When the machine does advance it won't cross a simple bump of elastic in the seam.
And the stitches bunch, and gather the fabric. Will a manual give me the information I need to repair this antique? Mine was lost years ago.I have an older Nelco 6915 sewing machine a that needs a new belt (maybe both). I cannot find anyone in my area who does repairs on older machines. I can't figure out what belt(s) I need as no place on line lists them.
Can you tell me what size and kind of belts I need and point me to a tutorial that I can order the part and do it myself?Here is a video that says how to replace belts. www.google.com/
Purchase the belt here. www.sewingpart.com/