Singer 111G116

[v8v8]

Hi everyone,

I am an absolute beginner but I've been learning a lot from you all here in the forums.

I've taken Uwe's advice (thanks Uwe) and got a good deal on a Singer 111G116 that's actually in pretty decent shape.

I wanted to go through the cleaning and maintenance before I do anything else and I understand that lubricating it well is an important first step. Would anyone have a recommendation on what oil I need to buy and where to buy it?

Thanks in advance!

[Constabulary]

I´m not 100% sure but aren´t the 111G116 and 111G117 machines with a fixed stitch length? They are quite special purpose machines if I remember correctly. Can you post some pictures of your machine?

[v8v8]

Sure. I'll post pictures later tonight.

It doesn't look any different than the 111w155 models. It has that button on the base which I hear is used to change stitch lengths.

[Uwe]

The exact model is not super important for a practice machine to tinker with and explore adjustments, etc. Many Singer 111 sub-models will share a great deal of parts.

For cleaning a machine I use Marvel's Mystery Oil:

It's available at most home improvement or automotive parts stores here in the U.S. It's does a nice job dissolving crud and dried oil varnish, but it's not too aggressive to accidentally take off labels and such. I use a tooth brush to get into tight spaces and then wipe things down with a soft cloth. The Marvel oil is red in color, so be a little careful with the toothbrush if you're cleaning in front of your white curtains. Once clean, I use normal sewing machine oil like "Lily White" (available online from various vendors) to lubricate things thoroughly.

TriFlow also makes a very nice oil and clear grease which many local sewing supply stores carry (also available online at Amazon etc.). The little spout extension is super useful to get into tight spots for precise oiling. I later refill these bottles with Lily White and keep them with each machine:

Get a few dedicated screwdrivers for working on sewing machines. Short/stubby and skinny flat screws drivers are very useful. The Craftsman finger driver bits are useful, too:

Also little ratchet drivers like this (except with a flat tip):

Tiny eyeglass repair screw driver kits from the drug store work great for taking those tiny screws on the hook gib off.

Edited March 16, 2016 by Uwe

[v8v8]

Thanks Uwe!

And here's a picture:

[Constabulary]

sure, oil has nothing to do with the machine it self but I have seen a 111G116 once and I had the the impression that you cannot adjust the stitch length at this particular model. If I remember correctly it had no dial for indicating the stitch length and just one plunger in the flat bed for reengaging the safety clutch but non for the stitch length. The one I have seen also had different presser feet and no "standard" needle plate so be careful with this model!!! Also the hook is not on the right side, it is placed on the left side (usually no big issue).

Have you already bought the machine?

Edited March 17, 2016 by Constabulary

[dikman]

Info on the G model seems a bit rare, I could only find the 111W116 (I was curious what it was).

[Uwe]

We'll need to see some more close-up pictures, especially of the underside, too. The photo does show a stitch length viewing hole that is not in the 111W116 manuals or reference photos.

I believe the intention for this machine is (or at least my advice was) to get a very cheap test machine to learn and practice maintenance tasks with before he buys a precious keeper.

[v8v8]

Thanks for the info, Constabulary. It's good information to know, but I'm not really concerned about the stitch length.

At this point in time, it's exactly what Uwe mentioned. I bought a cheap machine to see if I can learn to fix and maintain it...and of course sew some stuff.

Once I feel confident that I can take care of the needs of a used machine, I'll be upgrading!

I'm actually really excited about this.

I'll take some close ups and post them over the weekend.

[Constabulary]

I just wanted to have it mentioned.