Sewing machine 'controller' help needed.

[chingmai331]

Bought a used sewing machine which was originally treadle operated. Shopkeeper converted to electric by installing small motor onto back of machine connecting with drive belt onto flywheel. To run, the motor is hooked to a foot operated pedal, a 'controller'. Problem is that when pressed with foot, nothing, nothing then suddenly, full speed ahead. Far too little control over sewing speed for me. Since i am novice i need slower speeds.

Thought if i modified the foot pedal somehow then i could have more control. How about a rheostat or other device? Where in the system best to install? Light switch dimmer work?

Common 220V, 50-60 Hz, etc as found in T'land. Motor made by Singer.

[lopburi3]

I would go back to shopkeeper - suspect it is supposed to vary speed and is defective - may just require cleaning but seller should take the initiative to fix. Nobody can sew 0/100.

[Crossy]

I think L3 may be correct, duff controller.

Does the motor buzz (but not move) when the pedal is pushed slightly? If so it may just be that the belt is too tight (maybe the machine will start if you give the flywheel a little push).

[chingmai331]

Thnx guys. Here's the deal. I took it, and the machine (big headache) back to shop. He looked, tested, open and adjusted the pedal controller. No good effect. He then reached behind the counter and offered me a new 'dimmer' device. Only baht 350. I'm not yet ready to dump more money onto him.

I did look inside the pedal and found how it works. Pedal presses a lever which pushes a rod. Rod passes thru a ceramic block and on other side rod connected to 2 sided arm. On one side is contact point with washers (?). When contact made on one side, small sparks fly and power moves between points and machine goes.

Difficult for me to find control point. Can see the no/yes system but where is the medium speed on such a device? Either points are not touching = no current flow; or the points are touching and full current.

If any ideas from your end, plz don't hesitate as i'm keen to learn. Will look for cheaper dimmer at big shop today.

[lopburi3]

Sounds as if it is indeed an on/off device (ie cheap) and you will need a "dimmer". Can not believe actually sold for sewing machine as you need to vary speed to sew. Would work fine on a drill press or other function where only on/off required. Perhaps you got what you paid for - but can not believe anyone would be able to sew with just on/off switch.