Singer Model 500A Manual

The Singer Model 500A is a classic sewing machine featuring a straight stitch mechanism, built-in bobbin winder, adjustable stitch length, reverse stitching capability, manual thread tension control, drop feed for darning and free-motion sewing, and a powerful motor. Powered by a standard household electrical outlet. 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 Adjustments 6. Basic Sewing Techniques 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Heavy-duty metal frame, Stitch length selector, Reverse stitch lever, Bobbin winder, Thread tension dial, Presser foot lifter, Handwheel.

Feature	Description
Stitch Length Selector	Adjusts stitch length from 0 to 4mm
Reverse Stitch Lever	Engages reverse stitching for securing seams
Built-in Bobbin Winder	Winds bobbin automatically when handwheel is disengaged
Thread Tension Dial	Controls upper thread tension for balanced stitches
Presser Foot Lifter	Raises and lowers the presser foot
Drop Feed Lever	Lowers feed dogs for darning and free-motion work
Handwheel	Manual control of needle position; turns toward user
Light Switch	Turns the built-in work light on/off
Power Pedal	Controls sewing speed; press lightly for slow, firmly for fast
Spool Pins	Holds thread spools (vertical and horizontal positions)

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place on a sturdy table.

Remove machine from packaging: Carefully lift machine from box.
Attach foot pedal: Plug foot pedal cord into machine port.
Connect power: Plug machine power cord into a grounded electrical outlet.
Install light bulb: If included, screw bulb into socket under the cover.
Oil the machine: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to points indicated in diagram before first use.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use caution when lifting. Ensure table is stable to prevent tipping.

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for sewing by threading and winding bobbin.

Wind the bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension disc, and wind onto bobbin using bobbin winder.
Insert bobbin: Place wound bobbin into bobbin case with thread unwinding clockwise.
Thread the upper thread: Follow numbered threading path on machine from spool to needle.
Set stitch length: Turn dial to desired setting (2.5mm is standard).
Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and gently press foot pedal.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle while machine is running. Always turn handwheel toward you.

Specifications

Machine Type: Straight Stitch Sewing Machine.
Stitch Length: Adjustable from 0 to 4mm.
Reverse Stitching: Yes, via lever control.
Bobbin Type: Class 15 metal bobbin.
Needle System: 15x1 (HAx1) household needles.
Presser Feet: Standard presser foot included; optional feet available.
Motor: Built-in AC motor.
Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz.
Weight: Approximately 25 lbs.

Controls and Adjustments

Main controls located on the right side of the machine body.

Stitch Length Dial: Turn to set stitch length. Higher numbers = longer stitches.

Reverse Stitch Lever: Hold down to sew in reverse; release to sew forward.

Thread Tension Dial: Adjust for balanced stitches. Higher numbers increase tension.

Drop Feed Lever: Push to lower feed dogs; pull to raise.

Presser Foot Pressure: Adjust via screw on top of machine (behind needle bar).

Basic Sewing Techniques

Follow these steps for successful sewing.

Start sewing: Position fabric under needle, lower presser foot, and gently press pedal.
Secure seams: Hold reverse lever at beginning and end of seam for 2-3 stitches.
Pivoting: Stop with needle down in fabric, lift presser foot, turn fabric, lower foot, continue.
Darning: Lower feed dogs, move fabric manually in any direction.
Changing needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, remove old needle, insert new with flat side to back, tighten screw.

Tip: Practice on scrap fabric to adjust tension and stitch length before starting your project.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
Weekly: Oil machine as per oiling points diagram (use sewing machine oil only).
Monthly: Remove needle plate and clean underneath.
As needed: Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.

CAUTION! Always unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Do not use compressed air.

Regulatory Information

This sewing machine complies with applicable safety standards. The Singer name and logo are trademarks of Singer Licensing B.V. For genuine parts and accessories, visit authorized Singer dealers. For support, contact Singer Customer Service at 1-800-4-SINGER or visit www.singer.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine won't run	Not plugged in / Foot pedal issue	Check power cord connections; ensure foot pedal is plugged into machine.
Thread bunching underneath	Incorrect threading / Tension	Re-thread upper and bobbin thread; adjust tension dial to lower setting.
Needle breaks	Wrong needle / Bent needle	Replace with correct needle type; ensure needle is inserted fully and straight.
Uneven stitches	Dirty feed dogs / Incorrect tension	Clean lint from feed dogs; re-adjust thread tension.
Machine is noisy	Needs oiling / Lint buildup	Oil machine at designated points; clean bobbin area thoroughly.

Service: For repairs, contact an authorized Singer service center. Do not attempt to disassemble motor or internal gears.

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