Singer 5500 5400 Instruction Manual

The Singer 5500 and 5400 are advanced sewing machines designed for both beginners and experienced sewers. They feature a wide range of built-in stitches, automatic needle threading, adjustable stitch length and width, one-step buttonholer, drop feed for free-motion sewing, and a durable metal frame. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Stitch Selection and Settings 8. Maintenance and Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing machine head, Free Arm, Bobbin case, Presser feet set, Foot controller, Power cord, Spool pins, Stitch selection dial.

FeatureDescription
Built-in StitchesOver 100 utility, decorative, and stretch stitches
Automatic Needle ThreaderEasily threads the needle with a simple lever
One-Step ButtonholerAutomatically creates perfectly sized buttonholes
Drop FeedLowers feed dogs for free-motion sewing and quilting
Adjustable Stitch Length/WidthPrecise control for various fabric types
LED Work LightBright illumination of the sewing area
Top Drop-in BobbinEasy to insert and see thread supply
Speed Control SliderLimits maximum sewing speed
Reverse Stitch LeverReinforces stitch beginnings and endings
Presser Foot Pressure DialAdjusts for different fabric thicknesses

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack all components carefully. Place on a stable, flat surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift by the carrying handle, not the free arm.
  2. Attach foot controller: Plug into the machine's port.
  3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and then into a 120V AC outlet.
  4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to the back, tighten screw.
  5. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension disc, wind onto bobbin.
  6. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread running counterclockwise.
  7. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered path on machine, use automatic needle threader.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Unplug machine when not in use or during maintenance.

First-Time Operation

Plug in power, turn on power switch (if applicable).

  1. Select a straight stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to "0".
  2. Place fabric: Lower presser foot lever.
  3. Start sewing: Gently press foot controller.
  4. Practice: Sew on scrap fabric to test tension and stitch quality.
  5. Adjust tension: If stitches are loose or tight, adjust upper thread tension dial.
  6. Experiment with stitches: Try different built-in stitches using the selection dial.

CAUTION! Always start with the needle in the highest position. Never pull fabric while needle is in the material.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access functions via dials and levers on the machine body.

Main Controls: Power switch, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse stitch lever, Presser foot lifter, Handwheel, Bobbin winder spindle.

Stitch Settings: Use dials to select pattern, length, and width. Refer to stitch guide on machine.

Tension Adjustment: Upper thread tension dial (higher number = tighter tension). Bobbin tension is factory set.

Presser Feet: To change, raise needle to highest position, press lever on back of foot holder to release.

Stitch Selection and Settings

Supports utility, decorative, and stretch stitches.

  1. Select stitch: Turn dial to desired pattern number.
  2. Set length: For straight stitch, 2-2.5mm is standard. For zigzag, shorter length.
  3. Set width: For straight stitch, width is 0. For zigzag, adjust as needed.
  4. Test on scrap: Always test stitch settings on a double layer of your project fabric.
  5. Special stitches: Use appropriate presser foot (e.g., overcasting foot for overlock stitch).
  6. Buttonhole: Attach buttonhole foot, select buttonhole stitch, place fabric under foot, start sewing.

Tip: Consult the stitch guide chart for recommended settings for each pattern.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Unplug machine before any maintenance.

  1. Clean lint: Remove needle plate screws, lift plate, use brush to clean lint from feed dogs and bobbin area.
  2. Oil: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to hook race and other moving parts as per manual (not required for all models).
  3. Needle: Replace needle after every project or if dull/bent.
  4. Exterior: Wipe with soft, dry cloth.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air; it can force lint deeper. Use only sewing machine oil.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine won't runNot plugged in / Power switch offCheck power connection and switch. Ensure foot controller is plugged in.
Thread bunching underneathIncorrect threading / Bobbin issuesRe-thread top and bobbin. Ensure bobbin is inserted correctly.
Needle breaksWrong needle type / Bent needleUse correct needle for fabric. Ensure needle is straight and fully inserted.
Uneven stitchesIncorrect tension / Thread qualityAdjust upper tension. Use good quality thread on both top and bobbin.
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs lowered / Presser foot pressureCheck drop feed lever is up. Adjust presser foot pressure.
Buttonhole not formingWrong foot / Fabric too thickUse buttonhole foot. Stabilize lightweight fabric.

Reset: Unplug machine for 60 seconds to reset electronic components if experiencing erratic behavior.

Service: 1-800-4-SINGER; www.singer.com

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