Monday, March 4, 2013

To fix or not to Fix.....

I have a bit of a debate on my hands. 

To fix or not to fix? 

I have had this machine since about 1990.
It came from my Grandfather in Ohio.
I was told it was a sample machine for a factory that he was running in Sandusky, Oh at the time. They were deciding to make them or something along that line. 

It is the machine I used to make my first quilt. see here. As well as numerous bags, placemats and childrens clothes.  But then in 1997 I purchased a more up to date machine with more bells and whistles and this one got put away.  IT has moved a couple of times and been pushed to the back of the storage area. Interesting article about these machines can be found on the blog
Finally at Christmas, as I was putting the decorations away, I pulled it out. 

First off this machine stinks. I think it is the case or could be the old oil that was in the tool box.  I plugged it to see if it worked at all.  Haven't tried in at least 10 years and could be longer.  I could hear the motor running, but the belt wasn't moving.  
So while I had my other machine (see here) in for servicing I took this one in too.  Well actually I had my son bring this up from the basement to the van. (Even he commented on how heavy and not so portable it is!)
front side
serial number
label
stinky carrying case
back of motor
back side
top side
 I got a call from the service guy at the LQS. Estimate for the machine to be fixed $189.  Needs new motor and foot petal apparently.  

Should I spend the money on it?  Or should I just put it back in the storage hole?  What would you do?


6 comments:

  1. That seems quite inexpensive. I'd fix it!

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  2. Wow ... it's actually a rather interesting and unique-looking machine! If I had the funds, I'd take the plunge and get it fixed, too. I love the light on it! Let us know what you decide to do!! :)

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  3. Sounds like a lot of money if you're not going to use it, but if you are.....On the other hand, wouldn't it make a nice display somewhere, just because you got it from your grandfather, and made your first quilt on it.

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  4. Have no idea, but check lifewithlou.blogspot.com - she is a blog friend of mine and she is always restoring old battered machines :-)

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  5. I would keep it for the sentimental value (love the old machines) but not fix it at the moment unless you will be using it. Maybe one of your children will express a great interest in sewing with Mom's first machine somewhere down the road and I would get it serviced at that time.

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