Lubrication

Q: Is it true that Singer motors don't really need any lubrication?

A: No. this is a total myth. It probably comes about from the fact that some Singer motors made for late model white/green Featherweights had "lubed-for-life bearings". But all other Featherweight motors have phosphor-bronze bearings which need their share of lube. Featherweights which are not lubricated and serviced only slowly lose their edge and it's probably not noticed by the regular user. But a thorough oiling, service and adjustment can bring an old machine back to life in quite a sensational way.
The only Featherweights which do not require motor lubing are those with no lube holes.

 

Q: What oil and lube should I use?

A: Any good quality light machine oil is fine for the mechanical parts. The motor required a high-melting-point grease which you could buy far cheaper at your auto store but the smallest amount obtainable would probably last several lifetimes and the Singer tube makes it easy to get the goo into the tube.

 

Q: Couldn't I get away with using oil for the motor?

A: You could -- for a time. Then the oil would seep through to the commutator. burn and form a glaze which prevents good brush contact. It would soon be time for a motor rebuild.

 

 

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