http://blog.sew-classic.comQuick Blogcasthttp://blog.sew-classic.com/2009/02/07/refurbishing-whats-that.aspx#comment-2929475<FONT size=1><EM>Yo Jenny:<BR>What about "Goof Off -- The Ultimate Remover"? It smells vile (windows wide open!) and is stated to damage certain finishes, but it really cleans, and leaves no residue. It is supposed to remove just about any kind of crud, grease, etc. I've had good results with in on a variety of projects requiring old grease or oil removal. <BR></EM></FONT><BR>I wouldn't advise using it on any painted or japaned surface of a machine. Sew-Classic2010-03-20T21:58:07Zhttp://blog.sew-classic.com/2009/02/07/refurbishing-whats-that.aspx#comment-2929457Yo Jenny:<br />What about "Goof Off -- The Ultimate Remover"? It smells vile (windows wide open!) and is stated to damage certain finishes, but it really cleans, and leaves no residue. It is supposed to remove just about any kind of crud, grease, etc. I've had good results with in on a variety of projects requiring old grease or oil removal.Gus Webster2010-03-20T21:46:41Zhttp://blog.sew-classic.com/2008/10/25/singer-401-401a-403--403a--404--sewing-machine-review.aspx#comment-2929079There is no such thing as a 501.&nbsp; The 401 and 500 are nearly the same machine except for cosmetics, the bobbin wider system and just&nbsp; few other very minor differences.&nbsp; Just pick YOUR favorite flavor. Sew-Classic2010-03-20T17:04:59Zhttp://blog.sew-classic.com/2010/02/02/singer-237-fashion-mate-sewing-machine-reveiw.aspx#comment-2929074You need to adjust the tension.&nbsp; <A href="http://blog.sew-classic.com/2009/01/13/tension-is-it-getting-to-you.aspx">http://blog.sew-classic.com/2009/01/13/tension-is-it-getting-to-you.aspx</A>Sew-Classic2010-03-20T17:03:16Zhttp://blog.sew-classic.com/2009/02/21/refurbishing-the-singer-401-401a.aspx#comment-2929070There is a "hidden" spring underneath in to which the bracket assy is inserted.&nbsp; <A href="http://b2b.brewersewing.com/StockImages/Parts_manuals/special/sewing_parts_manuals/401A1.pdf">Singer 401 Parts diagram</A>&nbsp; - This should show you what to look for.Sew-Classic2010-03-20T17:01:35Zhttp://blog.sew-classic.com/2009/02/21/refurbishing-the-singer-401-401a.aspx#comment-2928963The Bobbin case retaining clip on my 401 has come out and I can't see any way of putting it back. Is there some sort of clip or screw that holds it in place? It is impossible to see where it fits from underneath.Christine Westhead2010-03-20T16:24:03Zhttp://blog.sew-classic.com/2009/02/21/refurbishing-the-singer-401-401a.aspx#comment-2928960I have used the Monogrammer with the standard buttonholer feed cover plate for a Singer 201K. The monogrammer works perfectly but the feed dogs do mark the back of the plate so I don't use it very often for fear of damage. I have been searching for the correct feed cover plate without success.Christine Westhead2010-03-20T16:21:35Zhttp://blog.sew-classic.com/2008/10/25/singer-401-401a-403--403a--404--sewing-machine-review.aspx#comment-2916748Have both a 401A and a 501. I know they are basically the same, but I would like your opinion as to which might be better.Emily Allen2010-03-16T18:01:37Zhttp://blog.sew-classic.com/2010/02/02/singer-237-fashion-mate-sewing-machine-reveiw.aspx#comment-2909720Hi Jenny, I just purchased a used Fashion Mate 237; There is no manuel so I'm wing'n it;the straight stitch looks like a straight line with dots not a typical stitch. It's hard to describe;What am I doing wrong?? Any info you can give me would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Jackiejackie crook2010-03-14T17:45:50Zhttp://blog.sew-classic.com/2010/03/12/draft.aspx#comment-2907985Scissors on fabric and needles with thread, bright silver thimbles on nimble middle fingers, working that magic known to all quilters out there...<br /><br />That is as far as this little brain will come up with! LOL!Patty Ojeda2010-03-13T19:52:47Z