Getting the Right Oil
Having a proper oil to maintain a treadle sewing machine is an important part of keeping the machine in good working order. The type of oil needed depends on the age, condition and model of the machine being serviced. Sewing machine oil is preferred to regular of household lubricants as it has less of a risk of gummy residue building up inside of the mechanisms.
If possible, use the manufacturer’s own particular brand of sewing machine oil. Keep in mind that turning screws and nuts or removing cabinets should be done with caution as not to damage any of the internal mechanisms. Old lubricants can increase the chances of gum-clogged machines and should be discarded with caution.
Machine Preparation
Before beginning to oil the machine, it is important to make sure that the machine is in working order. Check for broken or worn parts, oil residues, rust, and dirt. Make sure to properly clean out any nooks and crannies, particularly between the moving parts.
To ensure a smooth and efficient sewing experience, it is important to check tension and pressure settings and make the necessary adjustments. It is also important to check the threading route both in the needle and the machine. In the needle, it is important to make sure the thread passes through all of the guides, while in the machine, the thread needs to follow the same route as the needle when sewing.
Lubricating the Parts
The most important parts to lubricate on a treadle sewing machine are the shuttle, its housing, the arms, the tension discs, the race, the needle bar, and the flywheel. It is important to note that the oil should not come into contact with the brake.
The shuttle is located just below the presser foot and should receive a drop of oil into the cup and a few drops around its cap. The arms that hold the needle need to be oiled sparingly, as too much oil runs the risk of gumming up the needle. Similarly, the tension discs should be well lubricated with a few drops of oil.
Finally, the flywheel will require several drops of oil on the circumference to make sure the gear can move freely. All oiled areas should then be wrapped in a small cloth and gently wiped across the machine to ensure that the oil has been spread evenly.
Cleaning Up Excess Oil
Any excess oil should be thoroughly wiped away using a clean cotton cloth. Seal running seams with a screwdriver and create a vacuum sealing effect. This is essential to ensure that there are no air pockets in the area and that any excess oil will not cause wear or damage to the machine.
It is also important to note that some parts may require specific types of oil or grease for best performance. An oil that is too thin or watery could make it harder for the machine to move, while one that is too thick could cause excessive wear and tear.
Vacuum Sealing
Once the areas have been lubricated and wiped of any extra oil, the again sealed running seams with a screwdriver for any air pockets in the area. This will help prevent wear, tear and build up of dust or other particles. To further protect the machine from dust and unwanted particles, a light covering of vacuum wrapping can be applied. This helps the machine last longer and works to reduce dust and dirt buildup on the internal parts.
Test the Machine
Once the machine has been oiled and covered with a vacuum layer, it is important to test the machine to ensure that everything is running smoothly. Tests can include checking for tension and pressure settings as well as ensuring that the threading route is correct. If everything appears to be working correctly, the machine is now ready to be used.
Maintenance
It is important to regularly oil and maintain the treadle sewing machine in order to protect the quality and durability of the internal mechanisms. Before oiling the machine, it is important to properly clean and check it for any broken or worn parts, rust, and dirt. Properly lubricating the parts and wiping off any excess oil is also essential for best results.
Finally, it is important to cover the machine with a vacuum wrap and regularly test it. While the initial oiling of the machine may seem like a daunting task, regular maintenance and care will ensure that it stays in good working order and helps the machine last longer.
Fitting the Needle
Changing the needle of a treadle sewing machine is not as difficult as it may sound. Firstly, make sure the machine is unplugged, as needles can be very sharp and can cause serious injury. Then personally check and make sure the needle is suitable for the chosen fabric and thread. Certain needles have a marked side and the rounded tip should be facing away from the bobbin winder.
It is important to take the needle out of the machine when it is not being used as the heat created from friction between the needle and fabric during sewing can make the needle more brittle and weak. The best way to fit the needle is to press down on the needle grip gently which is located above the needle and gently insert the needle into the correct position.
Threading the Treadle
Threading a treadle is critical in order to ensure successful sewing. To thread the machine, begin by pulling the top thread through the tension disc and then bring it to the take-up lever. The second thread needs to be passed through the needle bar thread hook at the back of the needle bar and then threaded through the needle. To finish, thread the machine by following the path of the needle when sewing.
The needle should be checked for burrs on the eyelet at least once every five uses. It is also important to remove any residue from the thread or needle that may buildup. Lastly, make sure the thread is properly tensioned. The thread tension should be adjusted according to the type of fabric used to avoid looping and thread breakages.
Cleaning the Race
The race on a treadle is a vital area for proper machine performance. The race is the mechanism that guides the shuttle and there are three points at which oil should be applied: at the ratchet wheel, at the rear of the swing base, and on the bobbin as it is inserted. If oil is placed too close to the hook it will collect debris and be useless.
The race should also be cleaned thoroughly at least once every 8-10 uses. The best way to do this is to use a damp cotton cloth and gently loosen the debris in the grooves, ensuring that all dirt and dust is removed. Finally, a few drops of sewing machine oil should be applied to all three points mentioned earlier.
Maintaining Pedal Tension
To maintain the optimal tension of the pedal it is important to periodically check the screws for waste matter build-up and lubricate them if necessary. The pedal should have a reasonable amount of tension, not overly tight, otherwise the mechanism may be unduly strained. If the tension is too high the pedal may start slipping, and the opposite if too weak.
To adjust the pedal tension unscrew the assembly, clean it and lubricate the screws with sewing machine oil. Once adjusted and lubricated the mechanism should be firmly tightened. It is also important to ensure that the pedal spring back up after being pressed, if it doesn’t, the spring should be replaced and the tension readjusted.
Troubleshooting Sewing Machine Issues
Troubleshooting is an important part of using a treadle sewing machine. Even after all the necessary maintenance is done, many problems can still arise while using a machine. If the tension is too tight the thread may break, if it is too loose the fabric may pucker, if there is top thread skips, if the fabric keeps bunching or if the fabric does not feed properly.
In some cases the issue may require the attention of a professional, however, it is important to attempt some troubleshooting first to determine the cause. A few potential solutions that can be explored include adjusting the needle and/or tension, checking thread guides or take-up lever, cleaning the feed dog and rechecking the stitch length. If no changes are felt or seen, then it might be time to take the machine to a professional for maintenance.
