how do I fix my sewing machine pedal?

Question

I have a Singer 347. It was set aside for 2 years and not used. Now that I need to use it again I find that the pedal does not work, completely dead, if I step on it on the floor. If instead I push the pedal with my fingers it works. If I put the pedal sideways between my knees and squeeze it, it works. The pedal is hardwired into the machine, not plugged into it. DH's idea is to permanently wire the pedal on (there is no on/off switch for the power) and then get me a power tool foot pedal that works the outlet, but I would prefer not to do that. This is not an electronic machine. Thank you.

Answer 1

Understand - it is a mechanical and not electronic.



Sounds like it is working only if you push at a certain pressure.



If this means you have to put the pedal directly under your foot and press down, you are going to get a cramp in your foot, leg and back.



A new pedal is much cheaper than a trip to the chiropractor.



If your husband is handy with electric work, let him wire up a new pedal - http://www.sewingmachinesplus.com/ez-168.php



A sewing machine repair service (like Sears) would probably charge over $100 to replace the foot pedal.



Good luck and best wishes for a happy ending.

Answer 2

It sounds like something is loose in there.



Actually, your husband's idea might well work. I'm not sure what you mean that it's not an electronic machine, unless it's an old treadle machine or something. If it works like most sewing machine foot pedals, the power tool foot pedal idea would just be swapping one variable-speed control for another. If it works when jammed between your knees, plug the entire machine into the power tool foot pedal and jam the old pedal while you try it before you make any cuts.



If you'd like to do the job "right", check your phone book (or online equivalent) for your local sewing machine repair place. Many also fix vacuums. They should be able to order and install the correct part for you, even if it involves cutting off and rewiring the old pedal. If you or your husband is comfortable doing the wiring yourself, go through the Singer website and see if you can order the correct pedal for your machine.

Answer 3

You do have an on/off switch don't you? It's the lowest knob, the one with one filled-in dot for On and a circle (empty dot) for Off.



On another site, it's often advised to get into the innards of the pedal if you peel the rubber off of the bottom (and replace it afterwards with new rubber) and remove the fuse/suppressor that is in the pedal and often malfunctioning after so many years. I doubt that's the problem. The problem sounds like a loose connection somewhere, which I leave to people who know electrical circuits. One crazy idea, though, can you still work it with your foot if you turn the pedal backwards so that you're applying foot pressure from the hinge side, or can you mount it as a 'knee lift' knee-operated pedal which some sewists swear by?

Answer 4

Unless you can prove the movers did the damage, I would forget that. Almost any handyman or maintenance man (except William B) should be able to fix your sewing machine. Check with friends and neighbors for a recommendation.

Answer 5

Maybe your husband is right. Maybe you should try to plugged the hardwired. maybe because your Singer Sewing Machine is an electronic Singer Sewing Machine. Or you should ask help for other expert in Singer Sewing Machine.