Singer 6800C Heavy Duty Sewing Machine Manual

The Singer 6800C is a heavy-duty sewing machine designed for handling tough fabrics like denim, canvas, and leather with ease. It features a powerful motor, a variety of built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, adjustable presser foot pressure, top drop-in bobbin, 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 Settings 6. Stitch Selection and Adjustment 8. Maintenance and Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Heavy-duty metal frame, powerful motor, automatic needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, LED lighting, adjustable presser foot pressure, and a variety of built-in stitches.

Feature	Description
Heavy-Duty Motor	Provides extra power for sewing through multiple layers of thick fabric
Built-in Stitches	Includes straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative stitches
Automatic Needle Threader	Simplifies threading the needle
Top Drop-in Bobbin	Easy to insert and see bobbin thread
Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure	Allows control for different fabric thicknesses
LED Work Light	Illuminates the sewing area
Free Arm	Converts for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Stitch Length/Width Dials	Adjustable for custom stitch settings
Reverse Stitch Lever	For reinforcing seams
Power/Speed Control	Foot pedal with adjustable speed

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and place the machine on a stable, flat surface.

Remove all packaging materials and protective covers.
Attach the power cord to the machine and plug into a standard 120V AC outlet.
Install the foot pedal and connect it to the machine.
Attach the accessory tray if included.
Raise the presser foot and install the needle securely.

WARNING! The machine is heavy; lift with care using both hands. Ensure the work area is clean and well-lit.

First-Time Operation

Before sewing, prepare the machine by threading and testing on scrap fabric.

Wind and insert the bobbin: Follow the diagram to wind the bobbin and place it in the bobbin case.
Thread the upper thread: Use the automatic needle threader or follow the numbered threading path.
Pull up the bobbin thread: Hold the upper thread and turn the handwheel toward you to bring up the bobbin thread.
Select a stitch: Turn the stitch selection dial to choose your desired stitch.
Test on scrap fabric: Adjust tension and stitch length as needed.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from the needle while the machine is in operation. Always turn off and unplug for maintenance.

Specifications

Model: Singer 6800C Heavy Duty
Stitches: 10+ built-in stitches (straight, zigzag, stretch, decorative)
Speed: Up to 1,100 stitches per minute
Needle Positions: Adjustable for left, center, right
Presser Feet: Includes all-purpose, zipper, buttonhole, and more
Bobbin: Class 15 transparent top drop-in
Lighting: LED bulb
Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz
Warranty: Limited 25-year warranty

Controls and Settings

Main controls are located on the front and side of the machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch lever, presser foot lifter.

Side Panel: Power switch, bobbin winder, tension control dial.

Adjustments: Stitch length (0-4 mm), stitch width (0-5 mm), thread tension (0-9), presser foot pressure dial.

Special Features: Automatic needle threader, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in buttonhole function.

Stitch Selection and Adjustment

Select stitches using the dial and adjust for fabric type and project needs.

Turn the stitch selection dial to the desired stitch number.
Adjust stitch length: Longer for basting, shorter for fine fabrics.
Adjust stitch width: Wider for zigzag, narrower for straight stitch.
Test on scrap fabric to ensure proper tension and appearance.
For buttonholes: Use the 4-step buttonhole function with the appropriate foot.

Tip: Refer to the stitch guide on the machine or manual for recommended settings for different fabrics.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Unplug the machine before any cleaning or maintenance.
Remove the needle plate and bobbin case to clean lint and debris with a small brush.
Oil the machine as instructed in the manual using only Singer sewing machine oil.
Wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth.
Replace the needle regularly (after every 8-10 hours of sewing).

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air to clean the machine as it can force lint into the mechanism. Never immerse the machine in water.

Regulatory Information

This sewing machine complies with relevant safety standards. The motor is UL listed. Copyright © Singer Manufacturing Company. All trademarks are property of Singer. For support, visit www.singer.com or contact 1-800-4-SINGER.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine won't start	Power connection	Check power cord is plugged in; ensure power switch is on.
Thread bunching underneath	Incorrect threading/bobbin	Re-thread upper and bobbin threads; ensure bobbin is inserted correctly.
Needle breaks	Wrong needle/bent needle	Replace needle; ensure it's inserted fully and tightened.
Uneven stitches	Tension issues	Adjust thread tension; re-thread completely.
Machine is noisy	Lint/debris or needs oil	Clean lint from bobbin area; oil according to manual.
Fabric not feeding	Feed dogs lowered	Check feed dog position; raise if lowered.
Automatic needle threader not working	Needle not in highest position	Raise needle to highest position using handwheel.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes to reset electronic components if experiencing erratic behavior.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Singer service center at 1-800-4-SINGER or visit www.singer.com.