Instruction Manual for a Sanko Old Sewing Machine 1960s

The Sanko Old Sewing Machine from the 1960s is a classic mechanical sewing machine featuring a durable metal construction, built-in stitch patterns, manual thread tension control, reverse stitching capability, built-in light, foot pedal speed control, and various presser feet attachments. This vintage machine operates on 110V AC power and requires regular oiling for optimal performance. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Threading and Bobbin 7. Stitch Selection 8. Maintenance 9. Accessories 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Metal body construction, Stitch pattern selector, Thread tension dial, Reverse stitch lever, Built-in work light, Foot pedal controller, Bobbin winder, Presser foot lever.

Feature	Description
Stitch pattern selector	Dial for selecting straight, zigzag, and decorative stitches
Thread tension dial	Manual adjustment for upper thread tension
Reverse stitch lever	For reinforcing stitches at beginning and end
Built-in work light	Illuminates sewing area
Foot pedal	Controls sewing speed
Bobbin winder	Automatically winds bobbin from spool
Presser foot lever	Raises and lowers presser foot
Stitch length dial	Adjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Hand wheel	Manual control of needle position
Power switch	Turns machine and light on/off

Installation and Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

Position machine: Ensure stable surface with adequate lighting.
Connect power: Plug into 110V AC outlet.
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side toward back.
Attach foot pedal: Connect pedal cable to machine port.
Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil to designated points before first use.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care to avoid injury. Ensure power cord is undamaged.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions.

Thread machine: Follow numbered threading guide on machine.
Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc.
Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case following directional arrows.
Test stitches: Use scrap fabric to test straight and zigzag stitches.
Adjust tension: Test on double-layer fabric and adjust as needed.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle during operation. Always turn off when threading.

Specifications

Type: Mechanical sewing machine
Stitches: Straight, zigzag, and 4 decorative patterns
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5mm for zigzag
Speed: Foot pedal controlled, up to 800 stitches per minute
Presser Feet: Standard, zipper, buttonhole included
Power Source: 110V AC, 60Hz
Weight: Approximately 25 lbs (11.3 kg)
Dimensions: 15" W x 7" H x 6" D

Controls and Settings

All controls are mechanical dials and levers. Stitch Selector: Turn dial to choose stitch pattern. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches. Thread Tension: Higher numbers for tighter tension.

Basic Settings: Normal tension 4-5, Standard stitch length 2.5mm for medium fabrics. Reverse: Hold lever down while stitching backwards. Presser Foot Pressure: Adjust screw above needle for thick/thin fabrics.

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading is essential for good stitch quality.

Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
Follow numbered threading path from spool pin to needle.
Wind bobbin: Engage bobbin winder, press pedal until full.
Insert bobbin: Ensure thread unwinds in correct direction (usually counterclockwise).
Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn hand wheel toward you.

Tip: Always use same weight thread in bobbin and needle for balanced stitches.

Stitch Selection

Supports basic and decorative stitches.

Straight stitch: Position 0 on stitch selector, adjust length as needed.
Zigzag stitch: Position 1-5 on selector, adjust width dial.
Decorative stitches: Positions 6-9 for various patterns.
Buttonhole: Use buttonhole foot and zigzag setting.
Reverse: Use lever to reinforce stitches.

WARNING! Do not change stitch pattern while needle is in fabric. Always test on scrap first.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures long machine life.

Daily: Clean lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
Weekly: Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil.
Monthly: Check needle for burrs, replace if damaged.
Yearly: Professional servicing recommended for vintage machines.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or oiling. Use only sewing machine oil.

Accessories

Standard accessories included: Zipper foot, Buttonhole foot, Seam ripper, Screwdriver, Extra needles, Bobbins, Oil bottle.

Accessory	Use
Zipper foot	Installing zippers and piping
Buttonhole foot	Creating uniform buttonholes
Seam ripper	Removing stitches
Extra needles	Various sizes for different fabrics

Safety Information

FCC Part 15: Class B device; complies with residential interference limits. Always unplug when not in use. Keep fingers away from moving parts. Use proper lighting. Store in dry location. Copyright © 1960s Sanko Sewing Machine Company. For vintage parts and service, contact authorized vintage sewing machine dealers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Rethread completely; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitches	Wrong needle/damaged needle	Replace needle; ensure correct type for fabric.
Machine jams	Thread buildup/poor quality thread	Clean bobbin area; use better quality thread.
Uneven stitches	Tension issues	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; rethread.
Machine won't run	Power/pedal issues	Check power connection; test foot pedal; check for jammed mechanism.

Vintage Service: Contact specialized vintage sewing machine repair services.

Parts: Original parts may require sourcing from vintage suppliers.