Singer Sewing Machine 2517C User Manual

The Singer 2517C is a versatile, easy-to-use mechanical sewing machine designed for beginners and home sewers. It features 17 built-in stitches, a 4-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin, and reverse sewing. This manual covers safety, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting for optimal performance.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. Getting Started 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Threading the Machine 7. Stitch Selection and Settings 8. Maintenance and Cleaning 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty and Support

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main body with free arm, Foot pedal, Power cord, Accessory box (presser feet, bobbins, needles, seam ripper, screwdriver, spool caps).

FeatureDescription
Built-in Stitches17 stitches including straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch, and decorative
4-Step ButtonholeEasy manual buttonhole creation
Stitch Length/Width ControlAdjustable for different fabrics and techniques
Free ArmFor sewing cuffs, sleeves, and other tubular items
Built-in Needle ThreaderSimplifies threading the needle
Top Drop-in BobbinEasy bobbin insertion and viewing
Reverse Sewing LeverFor reinforcing seams
Stitch Selector DialSelects stitch pattern
Foot Pressure DialAdjusts pressure for different fabric thicknesses
Power/ Light SwitchTurns machine and work light on/off

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and place on a stable, well-lit table.

  1. Remove machine from box: Lift by the carrying handle, not the free arm.
  2. Attach foot pedal: Connect pedal cord to machine port.
  3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine, then into a 120V AC outlet.
  4. Install accessory box: Snap into place on free arm storage area.
  5. Raise needle: Turn handwheel toward you to raise needle to highest position.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during setup and operation. Ensure machine is unplugged when not in use.

Getting Started

Power on machine; light should illuminate.

  1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension disc, and wind onto bobbin.
  2. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  3. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle using built-in threader.
  4. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to bring bobbin thread up.
  5. Select stitch: Turn dial to desired stitch pattern (e.g., straight stitch).
  6. Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and gently press pedal.

CAUTION! Always turn handwheel toward you only. Never force dials or controls.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Main Controls: Stitch Selector Dial, Stitch Length Dial, Stitch Width Dial, Reverse Sewing Lever, Foot Pressure Dial, Handwheel, Power/Light Switch.

Stitch Guide: Located near dial for pattern reference. Presser Feet: Snap-on system for quick changes. Tension Dial: Adjusts upper thread tension (4 is normal). Bobbin Winder: Winds bobbin without threading needle.

Operation: Select stitch, adjust length/width, lower presser foot, control speed with foot pedal. Use reverse lever to lock seams.

Threading the Machine

Proper threading is essential for good stitches.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Place thread spool on spool pin, secure with spool cap if needed.
  3. Follow threading path: Through first guide, around tension discs, up take-up lever, down to needle.
  4. Use needle threader: Lower lever, hook thread, pull back to thread needle.
  5. Pull thread under presser foot toward back.

Tip: Always thread with presser foot up so tension discs are open.

Stitch Selection and Settings

Use dial to select from 17 stitches: 1-6 for basic/straight, 7-10 for zigzag and stretch, 11-17 for decorative.

  1. Straight Stitch (1-3): For seams, topstitching; adjust length (2.5mm is standard).
  2. Zigzag Stitch (4-6): For finishing edges, appliqué; adjust width for narrow/wide.
  3. Blind Hem Stitch (7): For nearly invisible hems; fold fabric as directed.
  4. Stretch Stitches (8-10): For knits and elastic fabrics.
  5. Decorative Stitches (11-17): For embellishment; use stabilizer for best results.
  6. Buttonhole (marked steps A-D): Follow step sequence for perfect buttonholes.

WARNING! Do not change stitch pattern with machine running. Stop with needle up.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Unplug machine before maintenance. Regularly clean lint and oil moving parts.

  1. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver to loosen screws, lift plate.
  2. Clean feed dogs and bobbin area: Use small brush to remove lint.
  3. Oil: Add 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to hook race and moving parts as per diagram.
  4. Replace needle: Change after 8-10 hours of sewing or if bent/dull.
  5. Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not use household oils.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread bunching underneathIncorrect threading/bobbinRe-thread top and bobbin; ensure bobbin inserted correctly.
Needle breaksWrong needle/bent needle/incorrect insertionReplace needle; ensure flat side faces back; use correct needle for fabric.
Machine won't runPower/pedal connectionCheck power cord and outlet; ensure pedal is plugged in.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust tension dial; re-thread; clean tension discs.
Fabric not feedingPresser foot pressure/feed dogsIncrease pressure dial; ensure feed dogs are up; clean feed dogs.
Noisy operationLint/lack of oilClean and oil machine as per maintenance section.

Reset: Unplug, wait 30 seconds, replug. Check all settings.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Singer service center.

Warranty and Support

Singer 2517C comes with a limited 25-year warranty. Register product online. For technical support, visit www.singer.com or call 1-800-4-SINGER. Keep receipt for warranty claims. Use only Singer-approved accessories.

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