Singer 600 Sewing Machine Repair Manual

The Singer 600 is a classic straight-stitch sewing machine with a built-in motor, reverse stitching capability, adjustable stitch length, and a drop-in bobbin system. This manual covers essential repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting procedures for common issues such as tension problems, needle breakage, bobbin jams, motor issues, and timing adjustments. Below are key sections for safety, features, disassembly, repair procedures, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Motor housing, stitch length dial, reverse lever, tension assembly, bobbin case, needle bar, presser foot, handwheel, and power cord.

Safety Precautions

Always unplug machine before performing any repairs or maintenance.

1. Disconnect power: Unplug from electrical outlet before opening any covers.
2. Remove needle: Always remove needle when working on bobbin area or needle bar.
3. Use proper tools: Use screwdrivers that fit screw heads to avoid stripping.
4. Work in clean area: Keep small parts organized to avoid loss.

WARNING! Risk of electric shock. Do not attempt motor repairs unless qualified. Moving parts can cause injury.

Tools Required

Basic sewing machine repair toolkit:

1. Screwdrivers: Small Phillips and flathead.
2. Needle nose pliers: For retrieving small parts.
3. Tweezers: For handling bobbin and tension parts.
4. Lint brush: For cleaning internal mechanisms.
5. Sewing machine oil: High-quality lubricant.
6. Multimeter: For electrical testing (optional).
7. Timing gauge: For verifying hook timing.

CAUTION! Use correct size tools to avoid damaging screws or components.

Machine Specifications

• Model: Singer 600
• Stitch Type: Straight stitch only
• Stitch Length: 0-4 mm adjustable
• Bobbin: Class 15 drop-in
• Needle System: 15x1 (HAx1)
• Motor: Built-in, 0.5 amp
• Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Speed: Up to 1100 stitches per minute
• Dimensions: 15" L x 7" W x 12" H
• Weight: 22 lbs (10 kg)

Disassembly Instructions

Step-by-step guide to accessing internal components.

1. Remove top cover: Unscrew 2-4 screws on back of machine.
2. Remove face plate: Remove screws around needle area.
3. Access bobbin area: Remove slide plate and bobbin case.
4. Remove motor cover: Unscrew bottom plate to access motor.
5. Remove handwheel: Use screwdriver to release setscrew.
6. Remove needle bar: Lower presser foot lever, remove retaining screw.

Tip: Take photos during disassembly to aid reassembly. Keep screws organized by step.

Common Repairs

Addressing frequent issues with Singer 600 machines.

1. Thread tension: Clean tension disks with folded paper. Adjust spring tension.
2. Needle breakage: Check needle alignment, ensure needle is inserted fully.
3. Bobbin jams: Clean bobbin area, check for burrs on hook.
4. Skip stitches: Replace needle, check timing, ensure proper threading.
5. Uneven feeding: Clean feed dogs, check presser foot pressure.
6. Noisy operation: Lubricate moving parts, check for worn gears.

WARNING! Always test on scrap fabric after repairs before regular sewing.

Timing Adjustment

Proper hook-to-needle timing is critical for stitch formation.

1. Remove needle plate and bobbin case.
2. Turn handwheel to bring needle to lowest position.
3. Check that needle eye is aligned with hook point.
4. Loosen hook set screw slightly with screwdriver.
5. Adjust hook so point passes needle eye 0.04" above eye.
6. Tighten set screw and test with thread.

Note: Use timing gauge if available. Incorrect timing causes skipped stitches.

Motor & Electrical

Troubleshooting power and motor issues.

1. No power: Check outlet, power cord, foot controller, and internal fuse.
2. Motor hums but doesn't run: Check for jammed mechanism or worn motor brushes.
3. Intermittent operation: Check wiring connections, especially at foot controller.
4. Speed control issues: Clean foot controller contacts or replace potentiometer.

CAUTION! Unplug before checking electrical components. Replace power cord if frayed.

Lubrication & Maintenance

Regular maintenance prevents most common problems.

1. Clean lint from bobbin area and feed dogs after each project.
2. Oil moving parts every 8-10 hours of use: Needle bar, hook race, gears.
3. Use only sewing machine oil - never household oils.
4. Wipe excess oil to prevent staining fabric.
5. Check belt tension annually if belt-driven model.

Tip: Run machine on scrap fabric after oiling to distribute oil evenly.

Reassembly Guide

Reverse of disassembly with special considerations.

1. Reinstall needle bar: Ensure proper height (marked line aligns with clamp).
2. Reattach hook: Verify timing before tightening completely.
3. Replace bobbin case and slide plate.
4. Reinstall face plate and top cover.
5. Test all functions before final tightening of screws.

Note: Do not force parts. If something doesn't fit, check orientation.

Troubleshooting

Professional Service: For complex issues like gear replacement or electrical repairs, contact authorized Singer service center.

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