Singer 66K Sewing Machine Manual

The Singer 66K is a classic straight-stitch sewing machine with a powerful motor, built-in light, adjustable stitch length, reverse stitching capability, drop feed for free-motion sewing, and a durable metal construction. It features a knee-operated presser foot lifter, built-in bobbin winder, and compatibility with Class 66 bobbins. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Threading the Machine 7. Basic Sewing Techniques 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Heavy-duty metal frame, Motor with foot control, Built-in light, Bobbin winder, Stitch length regulator, Reverse stitch lever, Presser foot lifter (hand and knee), Drop feed lever.

Feature	Description
Motor & Foot Control	Provides variable speed control via foot pedal
Built-in Light	Illuminates sewing area for precision work
Stitch Length Regulator	Adjusts stitch length from 0 to 4mm
Reverse Stitch Lever	Engages reverse stitching for securing seams
Drop Feed Lever	Lowers feed dogs for free-motion sewing or darning
Presser Foot Lifter	Hand lever and optional knee-operated lifter
Bobbin Winder	Built-in winder for Class 66 bobbins
Tension Control	Upper thread tension adjustment dial
Needle Position	Fixed straight-stitch needle position
Power Input	Standard 120V AC power cord

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable table or cabinet.

Position machine: Ensure stable surface; secure to table if using knee lifter.
Connect power: Plug motor cord into machine, then plug foot control and power cord into outlet.
Install light bulb: Insert appropriate bulb into socket (if not pre-installed).
Attach accessories: Install presser foot, needle, and thread spool pin.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care using both hands. Ensure power is off during setup.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading guide.

Thread the machine: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle.
Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, engage clutch, press foot pedal.
Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread unwinding clockwise.
Adjust settings: Set stitch length to medium (2-3), tension to 4-5.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to check stitch formation.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle while sewing. Always turn handwheel toward you.

Specifications

Model: Singer 66K.
Stitch Type: Straight stitch only.
Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4mm.
Speed: Up to 1,100 stitches per minute.
Bobbin: Class 66 metal bobbins.
Needle: 15x1 (HAx1) household needles.
Presser Feet: Standard presser foot included; accepts low-shank feet.
Motor: Built-in motor with foot control.
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz.
Weight: Approximately 25 lbs.

Controls and Settings

Access controls on machine body. Front Panel: Handwheel, Stitch length regulator, Reverse lever, Tension dial.

Side Panel: Light switch, Bobbin winder/clutch, Drop feed lever.

Stitch Length: Turn regulator for shorter/longer stitches. Tension: Adjust dial (higher number = tighter tension). Reverse: Hold lever toward you for backstitching. Drop Feed: Push lever down to lower feed dogs. Bobbin Winder: Slide winder to right to engage; press foot pedal.

Threading the Machine

Upper Threading: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle eye.

Place spool on pin.
Pull thread through first thread guide.
Pass between tension discs.
Hook thread take-up lever.
Thread through remaining guides.
Thread needle from front to back.

Bobbin Threading:

Place bobbin on winder spindle.
Engage clutch; wind until full.
Insert bobbin into case with thread unwinding clockwise.
Pull thread through slot and under tension spring.

Tip: Always raise presser foot when threading upper tension.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Supports straight stitching for seams, hems, and darning.

Start sewing: Lower presser foot, gently press foot pedal.
Guide fabric: Let feed dogs move fabric; do not pull.
Reverse stitching: Hold reverse lever at beginning and end of seam.
Pivoting: Stop with needle down, lift presser foot, turn fabric.
Free-motion: Lower feed dogs, use darning foot, move fabric manually.
Finishing: Raise needle, lift presser foot, pull fabric back, cut threads.

WARNING! Never sew over pins; remove them before needle reaches them.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug before maintenance. Regular cleaning prevents lint buildup.

Remove needle plate: Unscrew screws, lift plate.
Clean feed dogs and bobbin area: Use small brush to remove lint.
Oil machine: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to moving parts as indicated in diagram.
Wipe exterior: Use dry cloth; avoid water or chemicals.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not over-oil.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER. Serial number located on machine bed.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Rethread machine; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitches	Wrong needle/damaged needle	Replace needle; ensure correct type (15x1); rethread.
Uneven stitches	Tension imbalance	Adjust upper tension; check bobbin threading.
Machine won't run	Power/mechanical issue	Check power connection; ensure handwheel isn't locked.
Bobbin thread bunching	Bobbin threading error	Rethread bobbin; ensure correct unwinding direction.
Noisy operation	Lack of oil/lint buildup	Clean and oil machine; check for loose parts.

Reset: Unplug, wait 30 seconds, replug if electronic issues.

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