How do i find the model number of my Viscount sewing machine

Is your Viscount an older metal mechanical machine? If so, it could be seizing because it needs cleaning and oiling If it is a computerized machine, do NOT follow these oiling instructions!!

Wheel on right side that controls the needle up and down is very tight...

You may need to search across the pond. Or, since the Viscount may be a clone, it could very well take something like Singer accessories:
Viscount Sewing Machine Parts

Viscount sewing machines

manual for 850 Viscount

You are correct, they were made with many different names. It's unlikely you'll ever find a manual, but any accessories that fit a JA, J, or 60s Brother should fit your machine. It's a great machine, congrats!

Owners manual is usually rather clear with diagrams.

Viscount was acquired by the Sliver Co.. I found this website where you can contact them directly. There is a link at the very top right..for Viscount/ Silver machines...

Silver Knitting machines Ltd
Units D & E Rectory Business Centre,
Rectory Road, Rushden,
Northants. NN10 0AG
TEL: 01933 311888
FAX: 01933 312888
EMAIL: [email protected] <~~ use this link to contact them

Our mission at Silver Viscount is to provide the best in the textile industry. We offer Sewing Machines and Overlockers, Knitting Machines and a complete range of Yarns and Accessories Click here to enter the Silver Viscount on-line Shop Company ProfileSilver Viscount was formed in 1990. Originally based in Mitcham, Surrey, the company moved to Bedford in 1999. In January 2001 continued expansion saw Silver Viscount move to new offices and warehouse facilities in Rushden, Northamptonshire.
Our extensive range of Silver Sewing Machines, Overlockers and Steam Presses are distributed throughout the UK and abroad. All have obtained an enviable reputation for both quality and reliability. Silver Viscount are distributors throughout the UK and Europe of Silver Reed Knitting Machines, the only major knitting machine manufacturer in the world today.
A huge stock of accessories and spare parts is available which together with our experienced after-sales service department provides support and back up for both the Silver and Silver Reed brands.
We also supply a variety of generic sewing and knitting machine parts, accessories, threads, needles and general haberdashery alongside our range of Forsell Yarns.
Units D & E Rectory Business Centre,
Rectory Road, Rushden,
Northants. NN10 0AG
Tel: 01933 311888 Fax: 01933 312888
Email: [email protected]
Registered in England, Reg No.: 2558902 at address above

http://www.silversewing.co.uk/

Silver Sewing Machines
Units D & E, Rectory Road Business Centre
Rectory Road
Rushden
Northamptonshire NN10 0AG Tel: 01933 311888
Fax:
[email protected]
www.silversewing.com

http://www.silversewing.co.uk/

Silver Sewing Machines
Units D & E, Rectory Road Business Centre
Rectory Road
Rushden
Northamptonshire NN10 0AG Tel: 01933 311888
Fax:
[email protected]
www.silversewing.com

Sounds like the tension is too tight or you are using an inferior thread or the needle is the wrong size for the thread

Please could I be sent your pdf manual for a viscount 280.
I have one but no manual.
My email is [email protected]
Many thanks!