Davis Model T Sewing Machine Manual

The Davis Model T is a classic vintage sewing machine featuring a straight stitch mechanism, built-in bobbin winder, adjustable stitch length, reverse stitching capability, manual tension control, knee-operated presser foot lift, and durable cast-iron construction. Powered by foot treadle or optional electric motor. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Threading the Machine 7. Basic Sewing Operations 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories Included 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Cast-iron body, tension dial, stitch length regulator, reverse lever, bobbin winder, presser foot, needle clamp, hand wheel, knee lift lever.

Feature	Description
Stitch Length Regulator	Adjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Reverse Lever	Enables backward stitching for securing seams
Bobbin Winder	Built-in winder for preparing bobbins
Tension Dial	Manual adjustment for upper thread tension
Knee Lift Lever	Hands-free presser foot lifting
Presser Foot	Standard presser foot with spring mechanism
Needle Clamp	Secures sewing needle in position
Hand Wheel	Manual control of needle position
Thread Guides	Multiple guides for proper threading path
Foot Pedal	Treadle operation for power control

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable table or cabinet.

Assemble treadle cabinet: Follow cabinet instructions for proper assembly.
Mount machine: Secure machine to cabinet using provided bolts.
Install belt: Connect drive belt between hand wheel and treadle mechanism.
Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil to all oiling points before first use.
Thread machine: Follow threading diagram for upper and lower threading.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care to avoid injury. Ensure all bolts are securely tightened.

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for sewing; follow step-by-step instructions.

Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension, engage winder.
Insert bobbin: Remove bobbin case, insert bobbin with thread unwinding clockwise.
Thread upper path: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle.
Set tension: Start with tension dial at 4 for medium-weight fabrics.
Test stitch: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and make adjustments.

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

Specifications

Machine Type: Straight Stitch Only
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Bobbin Type: Class 15 metal bobbins
Needle System: 15x1 household needles
Presser Feet: Low shank attachment
Tension Control: Manual dial adjustment
Reverse: Lever-operated reverse stitching
Power Source: Foot treadle or electric motor
Weight: 28 lbs (12.7 kg)
Dimensions: 14" W x 7" D x 12" H

Controls and Settings

Primary controls located on machine body. Stitch Length Regulator: Rotate to adjust stitch length (higher numbers = longer stitches). Tension Dial: Turn clockwise to increase tension, counterclockwise to decrease. Reverse Lever: Push to engage reverse stitching. Presser Foot Lever: Lift to change fabric or remove work.

Additional Features: Bobbin Winder - disengages needle mechanism when winding. Knee Lift - allows hands-free presser foot operation. Hand Wheel - always turn toward user for proper operation.

Threading the Machine

Proper threading is essential for good stitch formation.

Upper Threading: Place spool on pin, thread through first guide, around tension discs, through take-up lever, down to needle.
Needle Threading: Thread from front to back, leave 4-6 inch tail.
Bobbin Installation: Remove bobbin case, insert bobbin with thread unwinding clockwise, pull thread through slot and under tension spring.
Bring Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn hand wheel toward you until needle goes down and up, pull upper thread to bring up bobbin thread.

Tip: Always raise presser foot when threading to open tension discs.

Basic Sewing Operations

Master fundamental sewing techniques.

Starting to Sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, hold threads to back, begin sewing slowly.
Straight Stitching: Guide fabric gently, let feed dogs move fabric automatically.
Reverse Stitching: Engage reverse lever at beginning and end of seams to lock stitches.
Turning Corners: Stop with needle down in fabric, lift presser foot, pivot fabric, lower foot, continue sewing.
Finishing: Raise needle to highest position, lift presser foot, remove fabric, trim threads.

WARNING! Never pull fabric through machine - let feed dogs advance fabric naturally.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily Cleaning: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs after each project.
Weekly Oiling: Apply sewing machine oil to all oiling points (refer to oiling diagram).
Monthly Maintenance: Remove needle plate and clean underneath, check belt tension.
Needle Replacement: Change needle after every 8 hours of sewing or for each new project.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Never use household oils or lubricants.

Accessories Included

Standard accessories with Davis Model T sewing machine.

Standard Presser Foot
Class 15 Bobbins (3)
Needles (assorted sizes)
Screwdriver
Bobbin Case
Seam Ripper
Spool Caps
Instruction Manual

Regulatory Information

Davis Vertical Feed Machine Company original manufacturer. This machine complies with vintage sewing machine safety standards. Copyright © 1920s Davis Manufacturing. For historical reference and support, contact vintage sewing machine specialists or visit historical sewing machine collector websites. Machine serial number located on bed plate near hand wheel.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Re-thread completely; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitches	Wrong needle/damaged needle	Replace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Bobbin thread bunching	Improper bobbin threading	Remove and re-thread bobbin case; check bobbin tension.
Machine won't run	Belt disconnected/jammed	Check belt connection; remove jammed thread; oil moving parts.
Uneven stitches	Tension imbalance	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; clean tension discs.

Professional Service: Contact vintage sewing machine repair specialist for major repairs.

Historical Reference: Davis Model T manufactured circa 1920s-1930s.