The Needle Thread Tension System of the Singer Model 403A Sewing Machine

[@jayltd.7030]

Andy i learned that the beehive spring when fliiped 180° ie when the formed end is on top, applys more psi to the washer stop tang. It worked better when i assembled this way

[@andytubesewing1953]

Thanks for sharing and I pinned your comment to the top. If you are using the original spring it may be from usage and it is slightly weaker. The odd thing is different service manuals from Singer show different locations for the "teacup" or "boat" loop of the spring. I questioned a retired Singer repairman about it once and he said it does not make much difference so put it back on the same as you took it off. I've also learned each machine is unique to how and how much it was used. What works on your 403A may not work on mine.

[@jayltd.7030]

@@andytubesewing1953 I noticed the washer tang in your video is arched as all mine were straight which can also acct for the variations in Assbly, but yes each one is particular. Thank you Andy

[@bsd2000au2000]

Thank you over and over Andy Your expertise and knowledge in demonstrated in these videos has helped my completely restore 2 machines...a 401 and a 411. They are quite complex gadgets but was made easy thanks to you. Regards Keith

[@andytubesewing1953]

Two wonderful machines. It's rewarding to hear my videos were helpful to you. Thanks for saving the machines, and for the nice comment.

[@judithwise4997]

OH MY GOODNESS! Your so patient! Usually I get anxious when people take for ever to get to the point! But you explain everything in great detail and I love it! I don’t have to stop and rewind. I can go ahead and fix as you are! I do stop it only to clean the parts being worked on. But otherwise I’m so glad you are willing to take the time to explain everything! Thank you again for all your helps. I love my 401a machines! Yes I have 2. Always one on standby in case the other gets an issue and I don’t have to stop until finished with project

[@andytubesewing1953]

Thanks for the nice comment, Judith. Maybe I should label the videos as "fix-along with Andy", hehe. Thank you for loving your machines enough to maintain them so well. Happy sewing.

[@cherieblackfeather7104]

You're like the Mr. Rogers of sewing machine repair. Thank you for your patience and the delightful giggle of yours. I have my mother's 403a and I am getting more brave about taking things apart and putting them back together. I learn a lot from you and also the people who comment here. Joy. “The thing I remember best about successful people I’ve met all through the years is their obvious delight in what they’re doing and it seems to have very little to do with worldly success. They just love what they’re doing, and they love it in front of others.” - Fred Rogers

[@andytubesewing1953]

I have some of the best commentators on KZbin, IMO. I'm happy you are gaining confidence in working on your machine. You can do it, Cherie! I enjoy thinking my videos are that helpful to you. "Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible": 14th Dalai Lama. Thank you for your kind words; you made my evening. 🙏

[@hannarupp4636]

I love these videos. I’ve had tension issues for a while. This video helped me figure out that the only issue was whoever repaired my machine before had it all put together wrong. Thank you!!

[@andytubesewing1953]

A very common occurrence from what viewers tell me frequently I'm glad you found the video and got things going happy sewing and thanks for the nice comment.

[@4evaanimefan]

Thank you so very much. I love my Singer 403A. I named her Hope after my Mom, and I want my machine to work forever. Thanks to you, my tension is perfect!

[@andytubesewing1953]

It's a beautiful name. I'm glad you found the video. I think the 403A could almost last forever b/c it is well made. Just keep it clean and oiled. Thanks for letting me know my video was helpful.

[@lindacarpenter874]

I watched EVERY MINUTE of it and loved it all! I will watch it again as I clean the tension unit. Thanks for doing all that you do.

[@andytubesewing1953]

Thanks for your perseverance, Linda. It is a long one but has some pretty good info. I know your tension unit will be working well when you finish. Take care.

[@juliamedina1214]

I just watched every minute of your video because my 403a isn't sewing well. Great information and I will be watching it again as I try to fix her up. I appreciate you taking the time to explain and show every thing you did. Helps to know I'll have your video to look back on and confirm what everything looks like, where it goes, how its supposed to work, and what I need to do to get my machine sewing right. Thank you

[@andytubesewing1953]

Thank you for your determination to keep your 403A in service, Julia. I hope the video does help. You seem to think you have a tension problem and I wanted to let you know that, sometimes, the bobbin case can also need cleaning and adjusting. If it gets to that point I do have a video for working on your type of bobbin case (Class 66) kzbin.info/www/bejne/foWYiY1rmr6Me7M Also, my 403A Playlist has 26 more videos for working on your machine: kzbin.info/aero/PLsCOZgzzaiKKyqvdDRwS-9MfLuwSNJTcg Model 403A is my favorite Singer ZigZag Sewing Machine and I hope you get yours back to sewing like a drean.

[@johnstark3058]

Thanks for all the videos Andy... almost 95% of the time i can go to your channel and find a video covering the very thing iam working on, thank you so much,i also highly regard your opinion on these old machines and have learned alot in a short amount of time...thank you for passing along your knowledge, outstanding job sir....John Stark , NC

[@andytubesewing1953]

I appreciate your comment John thanks very much

[@claudialevesque2773]

Thank you my 328k tension feels good❤😊

[@andytubesewing1953]

Thanks for keeping your machine in service, and I appreciate your comment. Happy sewing.

[@fla.babynurse9927]

Thank you so very much for this detailed video!! My machine's upper tension was missing the washer piece. Same owner family (my Mom bought it in 1960) but unsure when or how it was lost. Ordered a replacement washer and now, following your video step by step, my 403a is correctly assembled and tension set. So very appreciative! ❤

[@andytubesewing1953]

I'm glad you found the video and thank you for keeping that wonderful family machine and service. It's really a treasure

[@kathiego233]

I watched your whole video too. I learned some more (different) things, such as how to repair more parts, from when I watched your "All about Tension" series. Your videos are so helpful and I find them just fascinating. Thank you so much! Kathy from Southeastern Arizona

[@andytubesewing1953]

That is dedication I think. Thank you very much! Helpful is good ... fascinating may be better! I appreciate your comments, Kathy.

[@sauces_official]

this video is so great, I've watched it several times and it keeps offering me encouragement to relax and see if my tension unit's functioning is good, and if it's not, to figure out why without forcing anything.

[@andytubesewing1953]

Thank you for the kind words. 🙏 I'll never forget the time my Mom asked me to clean and oil her model 66 and then came back to find her tension assembly in pieces on the table. It all turned out well, but she panicked b/c the Singer Store told her to never mess with upper or lower tension as a factory-trained specialist was required for that. I have 36 tension videos on my channel b/c I want people to know how to care for the parts. There are not any factory-trained Singer guys working any longer anyway, so now we are the "specialists". I appreciate you watching my channel. Take care.

[@sauces_official]

@@andytubesewing1953 I also want to express my gratitude for the positive impact your videos have had on my life, I was only interested in quilting and some construction sewing and happened to have a 503a I got cheaply at a thrift store, some problems with it led me to discovering the AndyTube channel. Not only did I get the 503a into adjustment again, but I found myself admiring the quality and beauty of the direct drive slant-o-matic family. In the last year I've picked up all 5 400s and 500s, plus this week I bought a 631G which I was very surprised to discover was another all-metal gear driven class 66 bobbin machine (I was expecting Touch and Sew). Your videos turned me from a sewing machine user who really didn't care into a real appreciator of these marvelous machines. Thank you!

[@andytubesewing1953]

@@sauces_official You certainly have some of the best machines that Singer ever made. I've not had the pleasure of working on a 631, and not even seen one in person. It looks like a fascinating model, and good to know it has a class bobbin/hook system; thanks for that. Interesting that it only took that first Rocketeer to get you started on a collection, but I know how that goes. Thanks for sharing.

[@paulamendes5907]

Dear Andy, thank you for the great video. Grateful you got a machine with a damaged tension mechanism so we got this very complete tutorial ;D

[@andytubesewing1953]

Welcome. Here are my other 35 tension videos if you get bored sometimes and care to learn more: kzbin.info/aero/PLsCOZgzzaiKJtdJxU7i-qpXOpKzU6xtEd Thanks for watching my channel.

[@jtarte]

We got yesterday at home in Panama City, Republic of Panama our Singer Model 403A from auction on eBay, the machine was in perfect conditions, looks like was not really use, is from 1960, tension was not working, after look this video, Andy make the magic, I want to give you a BIG GRACIAS, thanks to you channel and keep doing this kind of videos. An of course i saw the video of adjust and lubrication.

[@andytubesewing1953]

You are very welcome, Juan. Model 403A is my favorite heavy-duty zigzag sewing machine and I'm happy you were able to buy one. I'm glad you found my videos. kzbin.info/aero/PLsCOZgzzaiKKyqvdDRwS-9MfLuwSNJTcg I appreciate you leaving such a nice comment. I came to shut down my computer for the night and read your comment and you made my night. I'll be dreaming of all the wonderful sewing and crafting you will be doing on your machine. Merry Christmas to you and your family, and happy sewing. 🎄✨😊

[@jtarte]

@@andytubesewing1953 my wife called this 403A Moana like the Hawaiian Princess of Disney, was for the skin / machine color, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

[@andytubesewing1953]

@@jtarte It's a perfect name for a 403A. I like it! 👍

[@chuckrich6015]

Thank you Andy for being so thorough.

[@andytubesewing1953]

WOW, nice of you to say that, Chuck. I figured most viewers would be moaning about it. I appreciate your taking the time to comment, and thanks for watching my channel.

[@nancyhyde9202]

Hi, Andy, my little sliding tension pin just seemed like it was too short, inside the stud. Then I heard you say, "Maybe the pin is a little short, or ....." So after looking at all the other possibilities, I made myself a new stainless pin, the same diameter but about 1/16" longer. Voila! Works perfectly! (I have lots of hobbies and just happened to have the right diameter of stainless rod on hand, lucky for me.)

[@andytubesewing1953]

I'm glad you picked that up in my narrative. Nicely done! Thanks for keeping the machine in service, and for watching my channel.

[@Wowsheeka55]

Best video I’ve ever seen explaining Singer’s vintage tension systems-thanks so much!

[@andytubesewing1953]

I feel honored by your comment, Sharon. Thank you very much.

[@zeppelin2900]

Thanks a million Saved me a trip to the repair shop plus alot of cash!!!

[@andytubesewing1953]

I'm glad you found the video and were able to make the repair. It's better to spend the money on thread & fabric, right? Very nice of you to let me know, thanks. If you have issues in the future with your 403A here are the other repair/service videos for it; kzbin.info/aero/PLsCOZgzzaiKKyqvdDRwS-9MfLuwSNJTcg Take care. ✨

[@lakshminaidu2296]

TQ so much sir,today through ur video I solved my sewing machine tension problem🙏🙏🙏

[@andytubesewing1953]

I'm glad you found the video to be helpful. I love that you were able to fix your tension problem and it's kind of you to leave this comment. Happy sewing and take care.

[@eunicetimbrook54]

Thanks Andy!...I just cleaned and reassembling my tension assembly for my Singer 543...she works great now!!!!

[@andytubesewing1953]

Welcome. I'm glad the video was helpful. Thanks for commenting and happy sewing.

[@sherriscreativemind]

You're such a BIG help to me Andy... this old girl thanks you so much!

[@andytubesewing1953]

I'm really happy to hear this, Sherri. BTW, when you say "old gal" I know you are talking about the sewing machine. 😀 Happy sewing.

[@vsmetc7305]

It was a few sessions to watch it all but it gave me knowledge to know what to look for when issues arise. Thanks for you efforts!

[@andytubesewing1953]

Thank you very much! You approached it the best way I think. Kind of you to comment.

[@nmjerry]

So I wasvmessing with a couple of 403s. One of the tension assembly thread guard screw was as you described, with the driver blade slot cutting all the way across, but one had a flattened head and the slot for the driver blade did not cut all the way across; it was a linear hole for a flat blade driver. Both screws worked. I just thought the l after mentioned one was interesting even in manufacture. I have Lso noticed more variation in parts than I would have believed on such a machine. One thing is the copper coloration of the tension indicator was very deep and rich on one, and very light on thec other. There are so many mechanical engineering points of interest on the machine. It is like it contains every mechanical trick in the book embedded in one machine.

[@kevinstrohmeier2255]

This has been great, Andy. I'm not exactly sure why the tensioner wasn't working properly, but it appears to be working correctly now!

[@andytubesewing1953]

Good News, Kevin. Who knows what was lurking in the assembly, but it's all good now. Thanks for the comment.

[@bridgetgidget72]

Thank you so much for this in depth video. I personally need to know the how and why stuff works. I’m servicing my grandmama’s 403 that I haven’t seen on in 10 years. I kept it oiled, but I inherited it back in 1998 and I have no clue if/when the last service was. Anyway, now I’m cleaning and doing fresh lubricants - and I was so afraid to take the tension assembly apart to clean the disks. And now I am not because of all your detail and guidance. I’d like to take apart the workings in the top and the nose in order to really clean all the old oil off, but I can’t bare to. Now I want to buy another random 403 just to completely take it apart to clean each section and put back together again lol. I wish you well. Again, thank you so much for your detail.

[@andytubesewing1953]

Look at you doing that tension unit! Just like an old pro, 😀 It can be very rewarding to restore the machines, and one from within your own family is the best ever! Besides the 403A Playlist of videos kzbin.info/aero/PLsCOZgzzaiKKyqvdDRwS-9MfLuwSNJTcg I also made 19 videos for the 503A Rocketeer that came after the 403A. Some of the videos may be helpful if you decide to pull out the "Cam Stack" to clean under and around it. kzbin.info/aero/PLsCOZgzzaiKJZaZn2zl3LsnV2d7UhrqvX I'm glad you found my channel, and I appreciate you sharing in the comment section. Don't be a stranger and take care.

[@micheleantonello3187]

Great tip about the stud; mine had been spread so wide I could not screw the flange on without using a lot of big words. I closed the gap, then had to widen it again to accommodate the other pieces, and the flange goes on very easily, but I think I might have to widen that gap a smidge more, as the flange does go on very, very easily, and I find my tension vacillates. Finding the sweet spot, I guess! Thanks so much!!

[@andytubesewing1953]

Welcome. You're very intuitive, Michele. The sweet spot is correct! It's an odd little piece, but once you get it set-up properly you only need to brush the lint off and it keeps working. Thank you for watching my channel.

[@CraigsOverijse]

Thanks so much had taken my tension unit apart to check it as tension is off on a different model but couldn’t figure why it wouldn’t put the spring back in tension turned out to be as simple as where the small front bend was when reinserted not in my sewing manual for the machine but fingers crossed saved me a trip to the repair store

[@andytubesewing1953]

Nicely done then. I'm glad you found the video. Thanks for your comment.

[@CraigsOverijse]

@@andytubesewing1953 yes it’s a singer. 358 around 45 years old a gift from my Nan who was a tailor in before she married (she then had to stop as married woman couldn’t work in those days) I had it fully serviced last year but the tension has gone out again when I using it maybe will have to retire it but trying to see if it’s something simple first

[@andytubesewing1953]

@@CraigsOverijse When I download the manual from Singer www.singer.com/search/support?title=358 It shows a different style of tension assembly than in the video. You can buy a replacement if you feel yours is worn out: www.vintagesingerparts.com/products/singer-upper-tension-assembly-fits-models-337-338-347-348-350-360-362?_pos=14&_sid=8ef926c1d&_ss=r Also, I don't want to send you on a wild chase, but sometimes tension problem is on the bobbin case. I believe your machine has an Apollo case, or class 66. I have a video for that type of case; kzbin.info/www/bejne/foWYiY1rmr6Me7M and if it won't stay adjusted they are not expensive to replace: www.vintagesingerparts.com/products/singer-apollo-bobbin-case-fits-many?_pos=1&_sid=a1dc0f216&_ss=r If you are otherwise happy with the machine it is worth it to investigate/adjust/replace a couple of parts ($30) than to replace the machine. Good luck, and thanks for watching my channel.

[@CraigsOverijse]

@@andytubesewing1953 thanks so much for the tips Andy, actually two things helped one was putting the tension pieces off and one once knew the tip about the wire from you and another tip I saw was to do with incorrectly wound bobbins, I had already checked under the bobbin for fluff. So simply trick to try I rewound the bobbin being sure it was looped in an x on the peg and presto good as when it came back and now able to use it again! Win Win for me love my old machine doesn’t get a heap of use but like to know it’s working when I need it

[@andytubesewing1953]

@@CraigsOverijse Yep, I misread your previous comment and thought you were still having some problems. I'm happy to hear the machine is working the way you want. Take care and thank you.

[@Dre-in-PA]

Thanks!

[@andytubesewing1953]

Glad you found the video. Thanks for your support of my channel🙏

[@terrymcclean4582]

That was nice, seeing what repairs can be done.

[@andytubesewing1953]

Thank you! I find these problems often enough that I felt it was worth it to show them. Glad you watched it. Take Care.

[@thomasgronek6469]

great video Andy, Thank You. How does one know if the slack thread regulator and tensions thread guide is out of adjustment ? and if it is, how does one adjust it ? I recently took my tensionizer (the whole assembly that you are working on) apart, cleaned it, took mental note of where everything was set, and put everything back in the same position, , , ,it works (I love the names of things). Thank you for being a great teacher. @ 33:30 for anyone who is trying to figure out what I'm talking about.

[@andytubesewing1953]

A very inciteful question, Thomas. Thanks for asking, and for watching my channel. The slack thread regulator is used to set the stoke of the take-up spring. The spring must come to rest on the "stop" of the regulator as the eye of the needle enters the fabric. At that point, you want slack in the thread so the hook can grab it and pull it around to wrap the bobbin thread (making the lock stitch). Here is a video demonstration of checking and setting the stroke of the check/take-up spring by adjusting the Slack Thread Regulator. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmS4oq2Ph9RgmcU

[@thomasgronek6469]

Andy, thanks for having a channel, You have been instrumental in the revitalization of a Singer 301. This pathetic thing has been locked away for 70 years face down in the cabinet, the extension bed had a broken hinge, and other than that, nothing wrong. it was used I saw the video you did on polishing the grooves out of the backing plate of the bobbin case holder. the plate had one groove. so I redid the whole machine using your instructions. . . . .MANY THANKS. as far as the slack thread regulator, it went back where it was before I took the tensionizer apart, and just verified that it does what you say it should do. Also, I was thinking about buying Grace screwdrivers, but I'm leaning toward Chappman after seeing you presentations. thanks for the link above, and all of the knowledge you have shared to so many people. (I'm new to sewing, at the age of 64, I realized that every grown man should know how to sew, so, here I am. thank you. Have a great weekend. @@andytubesewing1953

[@andytubesewing1953]

@@thomasgronek6469 kzbin.info/aero/PLsCOZgzzaiKLZyGebzS_oISgesXNyREyI kzbin.info/aero/PLsCOZgzzaiKI_6fbu3itbd1v4z3uQvvkO

[@donnasmith2720]

My first Mocha 301 is a lost cause for the tension unit too. The indicator bar on mine is completely broken off and the stud was so badly damaged that the indicator bar wouldn't go thru it because it was crushed down in the middle and really wide at the tip. The end was jagged and unable to have the nut put back on it. I can't even remove the stud from the machine and am stumped as to what is the best way to fix that issue, since I couldn't get it off, I took a flathead screwdriver and put it inside it to widen that crushed gap, then used a pair of pliers with a cloth wrapped around it to lesson the gap at the tip. With it on the machine it was fairly simple to do it. I just need to figure out how to get the stud out of the machine. The set screw is a tiny screw and certainly not the correct one for it. The stitch length indicator is also a mess and has to be replaced. I bought a replacement for that but when I realized the tension unit was so bad I gave up from the cost of replacing it too. I've had it over two years and gave up but wait! Great news. I bought that LBOW 301 and it has extra of all the parts I need to be able to fix the mocha. Yeaaa. Thanks again Andy. You are so very much appreciated and it doesn't matter the length of the video's. They are so very informative for all of us.

[@donnasmith2720]

I got my 403A tension unit, the needle clamp unit and thread guide all removed finally and cleaned up. A little at a time and i'll have a 403A to sew on and I couldn't have done it without you. Eek I'm excited Andy, truly excited. Thank you so very much.

[@andytubesewing1953]

Nicely done. Never give up. You have the desire and that's about 90% of restoration. ✨

[@andytubesewing1953]

@@donnasmith2720 You'll enjoy sewing on that 403A. You keep moving forward. I admire your persistence 🙏

[@CharChar876]

Beautiful job!

[@andytubesewing1953]

Good to hear from you, Elizabeth. Nice comment and thanks for watching.

[@widgie161]

Like a similiar commenter, the rounded screw holding the thread guides on my machine is stripped. It actually seems a bit flatter than the screw you pull out at 33:28. The slot in the head of the screw looks a bit like a bow tie. Really not sure how to get this out. Also, my releasing lever doesn't have a spring attached like yours. Any advice would be so appreciated, thanks

[@andytubesewing1953]

It may not be the original screw. I've had some luck dripping WD40on and under the screw head and letting it sit and I have also used a hairdryer to heat it up before attempting to unscrew it. Some folks bang on the screwdriver with a small hammer while turning. A friend has told me he does 1 of 2 things with this. 1. he uses a rotary tool with a metal cutting blade and widens the slot to make it even then uses a wider screwdriver tip, or 2. he cuts a new slot into the screw head at a 90 deg. angle to the original slot. He is good at it but it sounds tricky to me with my shakey hands. The screw is called (ready?) "Slack Thread Regulator and Tension Thread Guide and Thread Guide (Upper) Screw. Singer Part No. 329. Hard to find and usually must buy vintage thread guides with the screw. The little spring on the Tension Release Lever is Part No. 12329 and this company seems to sell it: www.sewingpartsonline.com/spring-singer-12329.aspx They do not show the 401A/403A/404 model numbers though. You can also buy the release lever with spring and sometimes the lifting lever on eBay by searching for SInger model 401A Tension Release Lever. It's part 172139 and it is the same parts on SInger Model 401A, 403A, and 404.

[@deldemire1304]

Watched and able to fix throat plate assembly with your video....now fixing tension assembly! Do you know where I can get a replacement tension unit? Mine is missing the silver part of the knob. Thanks.

[@andytubesewing1953]

If you want a "new" tension unit it will be a universal one like this: www.sewingpartsonline.com/tension-complete-singer-422403-455.aspx If you want original vintage assembly they can be found on eBay sometimes. There has been a big increase in demand so they sell very quickly. www.ebay.com/itm/Singer-Sewing-Machine-401A-Thread-Tension-Assembly-Tensioner/233671355067?hash=item3667e5eabb:g:Bo4AAOSw4wVfKuHf The tension for the 401A, 403A, 404 can work on your machine. Thanks for watching my channel and good luck.

[@marierossen2895]

Thank you so much for your videos. I recently got a 403A but the numerator dial and thumbnut are missing. I found a new set on eBay and it is coming. In the meantime I have taken the tension system apart and put it back together except for the missing pieces. The weird thing with the parts I have is that the flange adapter is only threaded on the inside and there is no indication that it was ever threaded on the outside. Have you ever seen this? Thanks again!

[@andytubesewing1953]

Hi, Marie, and congrats on your "new" 403A! It sounds like you have a flange adaptor taken from a different model; maybe a 500A or 503A. Maybe that is why your parts were missing on the 403A? Anyway, the 500A class machines have a combination numerated dial/thumbnut set-up and the flange adaptor does not have outside threads as far as I remember. There may be other Singer models like that also. If you have time take a look at this tension video for the Rocketeer models as maybe you have some parts from it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/haK9i2CrndN0g7s Also, while you are waiting for your 403A to arrive, you may be interested in this series I did all about your type of tension unit: kzbin.info/aero/PLsCOZgzzaiKJaeFB_GW97NsW5GYM7KD9U Thank you for watching my channel and for saving that 403A. Take Care.

[@dawnsaavedra9885]

thank you Andy, again. just a comment, when you need to vacuum up things you want to keep, I just put an old nylon hosiery over the opening. that way I don't have to dig through the bag.

[@andytubesewing1953]

What a brilliant solution to a messy problem. Thank you for sharing that on my channel 🙏

[@bearteddy1992]

Can you do a video on the singer merritt 4530 regarding tension? I have not been able to get it adjusted

[@andytubesewing1953]

That 1990s model is way too new for me. I've never even seen one in person. made outside the USA and I can not get a parts or service manual for it. Best advice is to clean the tension as best as you can. At least with blowing air, canned or compressed. If you can see it with the covers off then clean with alcohol. Many times tension is lost b/c dirt and lint get stuck in the springs and tension discs and you can't maintain a steady tension. Sorry, friend. 😞

[@bearteddy1992]

@@andytubesewing1953 Thank you Andy, I've taken it apart and cleaned it out best I can, the spring and disc look much like yours so I'll do some more and hope for the best. Thanks again have a great day

[@andytubesewing1953]

@@bearteddy1992 OK, good luck. The theory of tension is the same on all units, just the parts can be a little different style.

[@aprildholmes5722]

Hi Andy. Great video on the tension unit. Is it necessary to remove the needle bar and presser foot lifter level to do this repair. It is nice to have them out of the way but I am terrified about removing them and getting everything back together.

[@andytubesewing1953]

there is no need to remove the bars to work on the tension unit. there is a tension pin releasing lever behind the bars and if that was bent defective or not working properly then you would have to remove the bars so no worries April you can work on the tension unit with the bars in place it's a very good question and I appreciate you asking it and thank you for watching my channel

[@loissuppo7819]

Thank you so much for such in depth information on the tension system. By watching your video, I realized that the mechanism for releasing the tension may need some work in the future. I am working on a 403a machine just like this, but am not brave enough to to the complete job you have done on this one. My goal is to get it in better condition for my granddaughter, who has expressed an interest in sewing. I am in need of some minor things for the 401, and hope to find some accessories also. Since Sew Classic is no longer in business do you have any good sites to find these things? I have two 301s and a featherweight and sew with them regularly. They are such great sewing machines.

[@andytubesewing1953]

Parts & Supply sellers have mostly moved to online locations like eBay and/or Amazon. I just look for a good price from a seller with a high rating. There are a couple places that are direct, like the old central Michigan sewing: www.vintagesingerparts.com/collections/singer and a very large one: www.sewingpartsonline.com/ but there are dozens of good sellers now. I usually search on eBay for the supply or parts I want.

[@loissuppo7819]

@@andytubesewing1953 Thank you for your help.

[@Dan-pd8qo]

Andy, I've followed your videos on tension and bobbin adjustments but I still have problems with the thread breaking because it gets caught between the bobbin case and the race of the hook instead of sliding over the top of the bobbin. Any suggestions on what the issue might be? Any help would be appreciated.

[@andytubesewing1953]

Some thoughts about this: Is this machine new to you, or it was working and this suddenly started? 1. Be sure it has the correct bobbin case: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bpraqqKKeJx5e8U 2. Be sure you have the correct bobbin, Class 66. Model 403A came with plastic ones from the factory: www.singeronline.com/si66clbo.html but can also use the metal ones www.sewingpartsonline.com/products/singer-class-66-bobbins-172222-10pk Class 66 bobbins have curved sides. If you have a flat-sided class 15 bobbin it is too tall and won't work. 3. Check the Stroke of the Take Up Spring: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmS4oq2Ph9RgmcU If the stroke is off the spring may be keeping tension on the needle thread and creating too much drag on it, thus pulling it under. Those are what I'd be looking at first. Good Luck, Dan

[@pattigray5415]

Hi Andy, thank you so much for making these videos. The tension on my 403A unit is not quiet repairing properly. The rounded screw is stripped and This has created a bump in the road I can’t get around. This sure would be a nice machine to sew with if the tension is fixable. Did you cover this situation on the tension unit?

[@andytubesewing1953]

By "rounded screw" you mean the screw holding the thread guides? I'm not sure but it's what came to mind. By stripped you mean it won't stay in tight, or it won't come out? Or is it the head of the screw, like the slot, that is stripped? The screw I'm talking about is steel, and the body it screws into is aluminum, so is it the screw threads are damaged on the screw or in the hole. For tension parts, I don't know any manufacturer who makes new screws, but always have to find parts online, like eBay; a seller who is parting out the machine. The screw (and thread guide) are the same on models 401A, 403A, 404, 500A, & 503A. Here is a seller listing just the screw you need for $6.00 www.ebay.com/itm/SCREW-TO-MOUNT-THREAD-TENSION-GUIDES-TO-SINGER-401A-SEWING-MACHINE/393019826280?hash=item5b81cea068:g:P1YAAOSwlCpfsyf0 If I misunderstand the situation, I'm sorry, and maybe you could post some pictures or a video on your channel that I could take a look at. Good luck, and thanks for watching my channel. BTW, the Part number for the screw is 329.

[@ralphwatten2426]

Hello Andy, if you're out there, I have a question about my Singer 503A tensioner. I'm sewing heavy cordura so I have quite a bit of tension on my needle and a little under an ounce on my bobbin. When I'm going along sewing, the thread comes out of the tensioner and I get a big snarl as long as when the thread came out of the tensioner. I've stopped using that little pre-thread pulling arm and it's been better but still happens. Any ideas? Thanks for your help now and in the past. Ralph-

[@andytubesewing1953]

Here is a video of alternative ways to thread the needle on your machine kzbin.info/www/bejne/o2icn6WVea2FrbM The behind the thread guide route may help. I'm also wondering if the stroke and tension if off on your tension unit. The stroke keeps the thread taught as it goes down into the fabric. That is supposed to keep it from getting tangled with anything. Here is a video for stroke and tension on a 403A and it would apply to your machine kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmS4oq2Ph9RgmcU

[@jayltd.7030]

Great Vid. Love life live

[@andytubesewing1953]

Thanks very much 💖

[@MistressNutmeg]

I am ready to tackle Goldie's tension issues now. Hopefully i don't find all the bent stuff you found! I bet your machine was knocked over on its tensioner. Or maybe it was tightened by Andre the giant.

[@andytubesewing1953]

I hope so too! I'm thinking it was Andre! You'll do fine, no worries.

[@rhondamercado7527]

Yikes, Andy. I found white powder stuff on the wires that connect to the motor as I went to remove it. It’s coming from the prong plug from the foot pedal. I sure hope that’s not a big deal. Any idea what that is, why it’s there and how to clean it up?

[@andytubesewing1953]

It's not a big deal but wear a mask & gloves. I've only seen it on 1 or 2% of the machines. Sometimes it is all along the wire to the lamp also. We disagree on what it is, many, like me, think it's a type of mildew, but others think it's a reaction between the vinyl wire coating and the aluminum of the body. Like an oxidation. I usually take old strips of t-shirt rags, dip them in alcohol, and wipe it off wherever I find it. Throw the rags into a sealed bag or container and dispose of them. Don't leave them lying around the work area. Whether it's mildew spores or oxidized aluminum I don't want to breathe it in.

[@rhondamercado7527]

@@andytubesewing1953 that’s a small percentage and sure enough I had to find the right machine!🤣. And yes, it’s all over the light wire as well, going up in to the machine. Thanks for the information Andy and I’ll take all the necessary precautions you mention. This machine doesn’t even compare to the 404 I found as far as how much cleaning it’s needing but I sure need the therapy, I’m loving it.

[@angelbeams5979]

Where can I get a stop washer for my 403A?

[@andytubesewing1953]

I don't know of anyone who makes new ones for the 403A. I think I'd buy this one and modify it so the pin is straight up: www.sewingpartsonline.com/tension-stop-washer-singer-037984.aspx If you live in Australia you can find it here: maxisewdataezi.com.au/product/172218-tension-indicator-flang-stop-washer-singer-522/ (the same part number for model 403A) sometime you can find the whole tension assembly on eBay, Etsy, etc.

[@samirsabih2177]

Thank you very Mach

[@andytubesewing1953]

Yes you are welcome and thank you for watching my video

[@paulamendes5907]

So I heard you wouldn’t get a junky looking machine (like I did) but, still,do you have any advice to repair the paint of a 411 that has several points where the original paint is gone? Thank you

[@andytubesewing1953]

Nope. I've never done paint repair to that extent. Only touched up the little nicks and scrapes. www.ebay.com/itm/134021052513?hash=item1f3446f861:g:wekAAOSwKIpWAF7A There are a few folks on YT that stip down the machne, sandblast it, and repaint, and some who just tape off parts and paint the machne bed where the paint is gone. I've just never done it.

[@paulamendes5907]

Thank you Andy, I will look for a paint to correct the bare spots

[@andytubesewing1953]

@@paulamendes5907 Sure. I spoke with a friend in NY last night. He said he has had a few machines where the paint on the bed has really worn down from fabric dragging over it. He said hardware stores like Home Depot will sell an 8oz "sampler" of paint for color testing. They have enamels and acrylics too. He takes a part with good color, like a cover or nose piece and they will use their color matcher scanner and mix him the 8oz sample for about $5.00. He will paint the whole bed, or maybe the arm cover, rather than try to "patch" the bare spots. He said some of the matched colors are perfect and the worst ones were, very, very, close and looked better than the bare spots. He has used brushes and tiny foam rollers to apply the paint. He thinks the guy on eBay selling the little paint jars has just had the paint matched at a paint store as he did. However you go about it I wish you the best of luck, and I thank you for saving the machines that you do.

[@paulamendes5907]

Thank you so much for thinking about this, Andy. This is very good information - the paint is missing mostly where attachments go and where fabric and hand/ arm rub. This 411G belonged to a professional seamstress her whole life. The machine has all the attachments as it was probably well cherished but she naturally also shows she’s had a full life :) Now for a quieter time but she is my only machine that can chainstitch, which is an upgrade relatively to the 401G ( less used, and soaked in dry oil as we talked earlier :D ) so I will definitely give her some use once and a while. Still wriggling a bit with the chainstitch, but I suspect the tensioner needs a good cleaning and this will do the final trick. The “smallest ever” screw is stuck, so now resting in wd-40. One advice for all of us - the chainstitch needle plate was kept in one of the little drawers, next to a felt (from the base I think), and as a result, after at least 11 years, the area of the plate that was in contact with the felt was very, very rusty. Probably the felt absorbed moisture. Dremel and patience got it back to function as fortunately it didn’t affect the core parts for the chainstitch formation. Thank you again for all your help and good advice! Always a pleasure to learn with you

[@andytubesewing1953]

@@paulamendes5907 I wish your machine could talk. A well-used machine is often well-loved especially when owned by someone making money with it. You've got 2 great machines there for sure. Happy stitching.