I bought a vintage singer 201k, hand cranked. Sews like a dream, but the stitch length adjuster slips upwards to the smallest stitch length when sewing. The screws on the stitch length adjuster are all screwed in tight, and the bolt on the side is tightened. Any suggestions? Thanks in advance.

SOURCE: Changing stitches

You probably have not adjusted you stitch width and length.
Also a manual for this machine is currently being sold on Ebay for $4+. Probably would be a good investment for you.

SOURCE: Singer 5050

I was hoping you would have got another answer, I have a mechanical sewing machine ( Singer 5040) with the exact same problem. However, if i use the programed stitches I can sew a zigzag. If i do it manually and set the zigzag width to any width ( even the widest) I get only the same straight stitch, and no mater what length I select it is the same too, very close to gether about 1 1/2 inch stitch.
I took my entire maching apart to expose inside both top side and underneath, nothing apeared loose or broke and i oiled it up. I bought a new bobbin holder and still the same effect. So it has to be something serious is my conclusion...sounds like a trip to Sears to me...LOL

SOURCE: Singer 8280 is not giving me a useable stitch due to tension is not properly feeding resulting , no interlocking

Make sure that the thread is not getting caught on the handle. I was having the same problem and tried everything only to find that my thread was caught.

Kelley Buchanan

• 130 Answers
• Posted on Apr 19, 2009

SOURCE: Consew Industrial Machine 2270 stitch length dial not working

Sounds like it is either out of time or the adjuster spring needs to be replaced.

SOURCE: Singer Touch Tronic 2001 Sewing Machine Stuck on Sewing Straight Stitch Only

I had a similar problem a couple of years ago. I finally figured out that I had the straight stitch needle plate (the one with the single hole), rather than the zig zag needle plate (the one with the curved hole). When I changed plates, it worked fine.