singer sewing machine 500a manual

The Singer 500A is a classic, heavy-duty, all-metal sewing machine known as the "Rocketeer," featuring a streamlined, futuristic design. It is a straight-stitch machine with a built-in buttonholer, capable of handling a wide variety of fabrics. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: All-metal construction, built-in buttonholer, stitch length control, reverse lever, bobbin winder, and drop-in bobbin system.

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on a sturdy, level table.

1. Remove machine from case and place on table.
2. Attach foot control: Plug into machine port, then into power outlet.
3. Thread the machine: Follow threading diagram from spool pin through tension discs to needle.
4. Wind the bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, guide thread, and engage winder.
5. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread pulling counter-clockwise.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care to avoid injury. Ensure power is off during setup.

First-Time Operation

Plug in power cord and foot control. Turn handwheel toward you to raise needle to highest position.

1. Select a straight stitch: Set stitch length to a medium setting (e.g., 10-12 stitches per inch).
2. Practice on scrap fabric: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and gently press foot control.
3. Guide fabric: Let feed dogs move fabric; do not pull.
4. Reverse: Use reverse lever at beginning and end of seam to lock stitches.
5. Raise needle and presser foot: Remove fabric by turning handwheel to raise needle, then lifting presser foot lever.

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

Specifications

• Model: Singer 500A (Rocketeer).
• Stitch Type: Straight stitch only.
• Stitch Length: Adjustable from 0 to 20 stitches per inch.
• Buttonhole: Built-in, 4-step.
• Bobbin: Class 66 metal bobbins.
• Needle: 15x1 (HAx1) household needles.
• Presser Feet: Uses low shank feet.
• Motor: Belt-driven, 110V AC.
• Weight: Approximately 25 lbs (11.3 kg).
• Dimensions: Varies with case.

Controls and Functions

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

Front Panel: Stitch length dial, reverse lever, bobbin winder disengage, presser foot lifter, drop feed lever.

Stitch Length Dial: Rotate to select stitches per inch (0 for darning/free motion). Reverse Lever: Hold down to sew in reverse. Bobbin Winder: Push bobbin to right to engage, left to disengage. Presser Foot Pressure Dial: Adjust for fabric (higher number for thicker fabric). Tension Dial: Adjust thread tension (higher number for tighter tension).

Stitch Selection & Adjustments

The 500A sews a straight stitch. Adjust length and tension for different fabrics.

1. Fine fabrics (silk, chiffon): Use shorter stitch (12-15), lighter tension (3-4).
2. Medium fabrics (cotton, linen): Use medium stitch (10-12), medium tension (4-5).
3. Heavy fabrics (denim, canvas): Use longer stitch (6-8), heavier tension (5-6), increase presser foot pressure.
4. Buttonholes: Use built-in buttonholer with special foot; follow 4-step process.

Tip: Always test stitch settings on a scrap of your project fabric.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Supports a wide range of sewing tasks from seams to buttonholes.

1. Seams: Use straight stitch with appropriate length.
2. Hems: Fold fabric, press, and stitch.
3. Zippers: Use zipper foot (accessory).
4. Buttonholes: Attach buttonhole foot, set stitch length to 0, follow 4-step sequence.
5. Darning/Free Motion: Drop feed dogs, use darning foot, move fabric manually.
6. Gathering: Use long stitch length (6), sew two rows, pull bobbin threads.

WARNING! Do not sew over pins. Use the handwheel to position needle when near thick seams.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular cleaning ensures smooth operation and longevity.

1. Unplug machine before any maintenance.
2. Remove needle plate screws and lift plate to access bobbin area.
3. Use a small brush to remove lint and thread bits from bobbin case and feed dogs.
4. Oil the machine: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to points indicated in manual (e.g., hinge points of presser bar, take-up lever).
5. Wipe exterior with a soft, dry cloth.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not spray cleaners or use compressed air.

Accessories

Standard accessories included: Assorted presser feet (zigzag, buttonhole, zipper), bobbins, needles, screwdriver, lint brush, seam ripper.

Additional: The 500A uses standard low shank feet, available separately for specialized tasks (rolled hem, blind stitch, etc.).

Regulatory Information

Manufactured for household use. The Singer 500A complies with applicable safety standards at time of manufacture. Singer® is a registered trademark. For historical information or service, consult a certified vintage Singer technician. Original manual copyright Singer Manufacturing Company.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, seek a technician experienced with vintage Singer machines.