Oiling a Singer 237 sewing machine is essential for proper performance and is often undervalued by sewing machine owners. Many new owners of the Singer 237 don’t realize the importance of lubricating their machine correctly – this can cause serious damage to the mechanism, directly affecting the longevity and stitch quality. Oiling your Singer 237 regularly is an important part of maintenance, ensuring the machine’s performance at its best.
To properly oil the Singer 237, you need to first identify the main lubrication points. The locations of the lubrication points are usually indicated in the manual, providing a helpful guide of where to lubricate. If you’re missing the manual, there are diagrams available online that can assist you in finding the correct locations.
In general, a good rule of thumb is to oil every part that moves and add a little oil around every axle. Start by oiling the external moving parts. This includes the upper tension knob, the bobbin winder, the take up lever and the arm bottom that moves up and down. Ensure that the oil reaches all inner moving parts, in particular, the feed dogs and presser foot.
To lubricate the internal parts, you will need to remove the metal needle plate. Start by turning the handwheel away from you and loosen the thumb screws. At this point, be sure to turn off the machine and unplug it from the power outlet. Once the needle plate is removed you can use a long needle oiler to drip oil into the areas that move – such as the axles. This can be a little tricky to get right, so try your best to position the oiler near the moving elements.
Before replacing the needle plate, make sure to use a clean, soft cloth to remove any excess dirt and lint on the exposed parts. Don’t leave any lint around the needle plate before tightening the screws.
The key to lubricating the Singer 237 is to use quality oil. It pays to invest in a good quality cleaning and lubrication oil, to get the best results. Keep in mind that this is not a one-time solution, you should revisit these steps every few months, or even better, once a month. Doing this will help to extend the lifetime of your Singer 237 and maintain its performance at its peak.
Oil Type
It’s important to choose the right type of oil for the Singer 237. You can use a light weight machine oil, such as a lubricant oil or a heavier weight oil, depending on your preferences. Generally, light weights oils are recommended for the Singer 237, as heavier oils tend to produce excess build-up over time.
It’s also important to note that Singer 237 machines use oil specially designed to lubricate and clean the metal parts. This oil is specially formulated with solvents and other cleaners, to remove dirt and lint from the components. Choose an oil that is formulated for sewing machines and isn’t too thick, otherwise it can affect the operation of the machine.
When selecting a machine oil, always check the various features it offers, to make sure it is suitable for the Singer 237. Be aware that there are different oils designed for different types of sewing machines, so make sure to pick the one that is suitable for your model.
Maintenance Tips
In addition to regular lubrication, basic maintenance is also important for the Singer 237. It is essential to keep the machine clean, by regularly checking for dirt and lint and ensuring that all components are properly lubricated.
Be sure to inspect the feed dogs (the metal parts that pull up the thread) and the presser foot. If these parts are not functioning correctly or are not adequately lubricated, they can cause significant stitching errors and even affect the overall performance of the machine. Check these often and make sure they are treated correctly.
Remember to also check the power cord and plug, especially if your machine has been in storage. Make sure the cord is undamaged and that the plug is firmly attached to the machine. It’s also a good idea to make sure that the cord and the socket it connects with are clean and dry.
When using your Singer 237, pay close attention to the speed control feature. Avoid running the machine at higher speeds than what is recommended, as this can put added stress on the parts and may cause damage to the machine.
Needle Type
Using the right type of needle is also important for the optimal performance of your Singer 237. Generally, the Singer 237 works best with a sharp needle and the number and size correspond to the type of thread and fabric being sewn. Select a needle type that is recommended for the fabric, thread and task you wish to complete.
It’s important to change the needle regularly, as they tend to become deformed and worn out over time. Regularly using a worn out or deformed needle on your Singer 237 can cause skipped or broken stitches as well as jamming of components. As a rule of thumb, it is recommended to change the needle after every 5 hours of operation.
Cleaning the Seam
Lastly, make sure to clean the seam after each use. This is particularly important if you are using thick fabrics or multiple layers of fabric. After completing your project, always use the reverse stitch option to back stitch over the seam, at least 3 times. This will help keep your seams neat and firm.
Then, use a lint brush to remove any lint that may have stuck to the needle plate. Additionally, it is also important to remember to oil the hook shaft and hook race as well as the tension disks, as these parts can easily become jammed.
Storage
Correct storage will also help to prolong the longevity of your Singer 237. Be sure to keep it in a safe and dry location, away from excessive heat and moisture. Additionally, make sure not to expose it to dust and lint, as this can affect the performance of the machine.
It’s also a good idea to keep the Singer 237 in its original carrying case, if it came with one. This is a great way to provide protection and prevent any damage from external factors.
Safety First
Sewing machines can be dangerous if not handled correctly and it’s important to remember to observe all the safety rules. Turn off the machine before unplugging it, never use it with wet hands and always wear protective gloves to avoid potential accidents.
Never put your hands under the needle plate while the engine is running and avoid reaching into the feed dogs while the machine is running to prevent cuts. Additionally, it is important to never leave the machine unattended and unplug it after each use, when not in use.
Do It Yourself
Oiling the Singer 237 is a relatively simple process and you can do it yourself, as long as you use the correct oil and follow the correct steps. However, if in doubt, it’s always best to consult with an authorized sewing machine technician. This will help to ensure that everything is functioning as it should, with optimal performance.
By following these simple steps and taking the time to oil your Singer 237 regularly, you can keep it running smooth for many years to come. And with proper lubrication, your Singer 237 will be able to sew high quality projects with ease.
