Class 66 bobbin loading

Singer 401A bobbin compartment

If you've already read the previous article "Bobbin Case Basics" you are probably thinking...

"That doesn't help with my Slant-o-Matic.  How do I insert the bobbin on my Singer 401 or 500?"

Hmmm...you're right.  Let's see what we can do about that!

Singer 401 and 500 slant needle sewing machines feature drop-in bobbin loading.  The bobbin case is permantly attached to the machine and uses a Class 66 bobbin.  Other vintage Singer sewing machine models also use the drop-in Class 66 bobbin.  These models include the 66, 99, 201, 185, and 328 to name a few. 

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Singer Class 66 bobbin case

Loading a class 66 bobbin follows the same principles as loading a Class 15 bobbin, but the key difference is that the Class 66 bobbin case is permanently attached to the machine with the open side facing up.  

There is one simple rule to threading both styles of bobbin case: 

The thread always slides along the groove under the tension spring in the OPPOSITE direction that it winds on the bobbin.

What does this look like for a Class 66 bobbin case?  Check out the step-by-step process in the following photos and video: 

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Hold bobbin horizontally with thread wrapping from LEFT to RIGHT across the front of the bobbin.  
Drop the bobbin into the bobbin case. 
Pull thread into the groove at the front of the case.
Slide thread along the groove in a RIGHT to LEFT motion until the thread pops into the notch at the end of the tension spring. 
Draw the thread across the bobbin toward the needle.

Still have questions?  Let's see it in motion:

There, that wasn't so hard, was it?   Loading and threading the bobbin case isn't difficult, but it plays an important role in how well your machine functions.  An incorrectly threaded bobbin will cause problems every time.    


Visit "Cheat Sheets" page for printable quick reference sheet.

Happy Sewing!
Barbara
OldSewingear...dedicated to helping you get the most out of your old sewing gear.