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Singer 626 Touch & Sew...with STEEL gears!

10/17/2012

128 Comments

 
PictureSinger 626 Touch & Sew
The introduction of the Touch & Sew series marked the beginning of the end of classic heavy duty Singer machines.  Plastic parts took the place of steel, aluminum and other cast metals.  The result was lighter and quieter machines, but without the strength and longevity of their predecessors.

Because of this, the Touch & Sew often gets a bad rap in vintage sewing machine circles.  However, there are a handful of Touch & Sew models that are graced with the same STEEL gears that drove the 400- and 500-series slant needle machines.

Picture
It's not uncommon to find 600, 603, and 604 models with steel gears, but the 626 is another model to watch for.  You'll have to remove the bottom cover (which
means unscrewing all 4 feet) to be sure, but your efforts will be rewarded if you see steel gears beneath the
bobbin-compartment.

There are a lot of reasons to love a steel-geared Touch & Sew.  They are less industrial feeling than the earlier slant needles, which means a smoother & quieter sewing experience.  And the stitch quality is superb, with some of the best satin-stitching I've seen.
   

The steel-geared 626 is one of my favorite all-purpose sewing machines.  It's a joy to use for everyday projects and has the chops to tackle heavy duty jobs too.  If you're looking for a great all-around sewing machine without the vintage price tag, keep your eyes open for a 626 with steel gears!

Happy Sewing!
Barbara


128 Comments
Susan Hill
4/30/2013 12:39:15 pm

I have a Singer 626 that my husband bought me in 1967. It has been a delight for 46 years. I have it serviced at least annually and it is super reliable. I sew dozens of flannel baby blankets for our local NICU every month along with projects for my granddaughters. I have no plans to buy a more modern sewing machine with all its bells and whistles. My 626 meets all my sewing needs.

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Debbie Frechette
8/31/2015 04:44:43 am

I got a touch and see 629 from a friend and it sewed perfect until the bobbin ran out . I'm not sure if in doing some wrong while wining it? Do you have any tips or tricks ? I asking you because you have had it so long I thought you might know .

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Sufiyyah
9/16/2015 07:53:15 pm

Check You Tube ... Singer Touch and Sew 629...SHop it works.

Kellie
7/12/2020 09:46:55 pm

https://youtu.be/3p1MeUcRBSk

If this link doesnt work, its Paul Rutan on you tube. Search a singer touch and sew 628.

I had to watch the last part several times. Its really simple actually. Thred machine like normal. Thred the needle and hold tension on the string by looping it several times around the circle that connects the foot.

Put your empty bobbin in, lock it down. There is a small lever on the left side with several circles on it, push lever down. Then slowly push the pedal down like normal sewing. It will automatically thred the bobbin.

Dont be alarmed when thred you held tension on breaks in the first few cycles of the needle moving. Machine has already started the process. Discard extra string.

Only thing to be careful of, when the bobbin stops the first time, its done. Will fill 90% before stopping. Dont fill the bobbin more or it will jam.

Drag a pen or something under the needle to pull string out to start sewing. Shut the door over bobbin, ready to rock and roll. Bobbin lever will reset when door shuts.

Ive used several other types of machines in the past, but I adore this one so much. Got it at a consignment shop cheap. Had to clean and oil before use. It does layers of denim and canvas like butter. The stitches are beautiful. I was stunned at the quality. Make sure its the metal gears if your on the fence about purchase.

Its slightly picky about weight of thred, doesnt like super thick thred. Change needles if they get dull.

Hattie Yates
11/24/2020 04:58:09 pm

603 E Singer touch and sew video on how to gt the plate off the front to replace a light sockt and bulb

Sheryl Ruzek
1/14/2017 11:35:28 am

My mother-in-law worked for the Singer Company and taught sewing classes for Singer. When we moved her from New Jersey to California a year and a half ago into assisted living, at age 92, she missed her old machine. This was the model she wanted, and I found one for her on Craig's List from a retired Singer dealer. She passed away last week, and I'm going to keep her 626 and give my newer (and far less well built) to my daughter. Your comments here helped me feel my decision is a wise one, and I'll take your suggestion about having it serviced more often than I've done in the past. (My mother-in-law did it for me years ago....). We will miss her but I will always think of her when I sew.

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Hector Gonzales
5/14/2020 09:22:17 pm

So its been around since 1967. Amazing test of time.

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Patsy Keel
6/29/2020 08:16:53 pm

What is the bobbin number for the
Touch and sew 626

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Margaret
6/30/2020 05:08:52 am

The bobbin # is 163131-S

Cynthia Sherry link
2/3/2023 10:22:55 am

Would you tell me where to go to order my bobbin

OldSewinGear
4/30/2013 02:30:47 pm

Thank you for sharing! It's wonderful to hear from an original owner who still uses her machine regularly. I agree, there's no need for a new machine when you have a champion like this one!
Barbara

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Sufiyyah musa
9/16/2015 07:34:59 pm

I liked Barbara's article . I have a 626 and would x like to explore the gears to see if there are metal gears. I must remove the what , take the screws from where . Please help me. Sufiyyah Musa. Thanks

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oldsewingear
9/20/2015 09:51:18 am

Unscrew the four feet on the bottom of the machine. This will allow you to remove the bottom cover (drip pan). You'll then be able to see the drive gears beneath the bobbin compartment. If they're metal...great! Black plastic is bad. White plastic is better but not great. Hope this helps!.

Alan Bryant
9/15/2019 05:41:02 pm

I read somewhere that the 626 was the last year they put metal gears in. I have one in a cabinet. I've read many comments that rave about this machine. I don't need mine anymore. If someone wants it, come get it. I live in york, pa.

laurel taylor
5/30/2022 11:47:01 am

hi Allan Bryant in York Pa...if you are still on this site and still have your machine, i would LOVE to have it...i will be in your area soon, i used to live and work in York...so am familiar with your Queen City ;)

Margaret Crumb
6/20/2020 10:08:54 am

I bought my Touch & Sew Model 626 in 1970 for $300 - my mother-in-law was very upset that I would spend that much. That machine has sewn draperies, slip covers, & canvas covers as well as clothing, plush toys, costumes; I've done countless repair jobs with it as well. I've never had it serviced but have kept it cleaned, oiled & greased. It stopped reversing & the service person (highly recommended) I contacted said it would be too expensive to repair. I'm not ready to give up - it's too good a machine. I've asked him to make a service call & then determine how much it would cost to put it back in tip-top shape. I'm willing to pay whatever it costs - I love this machine!

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Barb Lord
9/1/2020 06:01:32 am

I don't know where you live but had mine serviced by an Amish gentleman and he only charged me about $60 plus parts. I don't think I spent over $100 and it's sewing like a dream. Good luck. Shop around for a service person.

Joel Noble
6/27/2013 10:04:51 am

I have been looking for a solid workhorse for quite some time, and was happy to find a steel-geared 626 for sale from my area's best repair shop, fully serviced and backed. I really appreciated your review, it was decisive in narrowing down my choices. Thanks!

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Sufiyyah
9/16/2015 07:49:58 pm

I too am so happy to have found a wonderful 626 . Praise Be to G-D-, so happy . I first saw one for my granddaughter we found a machine 648 touchand sew she's 14 yrs. (She is taking a class at school in sewing, so excited she was able to take the class) and it's nice then while out with my grandson , I saw the 626 . and IM In pleased as pie. All special footing and gadgets are in the beautiful real wood sewing table. When you do for others GOD just turns right around and gives you a blessing. Ameen

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Alan Bryant
6/5/2019 03:55:03 pm

I just picked up a 626 someone put out by the curb. Has a box with bobbins and little screwdrivers. It's in a real wood cabinet. I reckon I'll be trying to use it since y'all say it's a good machine.

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Brian
11/22/2019 07:47:19 pm

Hey Alan... In a message above, you said you don't need your 626 anymore. I'd come to York and take it off your hands if you still have it.

Don't know if you'll see this, but let me know if you do! I'm looking for a 626 in a cabinet.

Laura
10/26/2020 12:11:50 am

Your post is a year old but do you still have the Singer 626 that you no longer want?

OldSewinGear
6/28/2013 04:38:27 pm

Congratulations on your "new" old machine! The 626 is a great machine which will serve you well! Thanks for the feedback!
Barbara

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Barbra Pemberton link
6/29/2013 04:03:37 pm

Do you know how to switch my 626 from foot power to knee power. The knee lever is attached to the machine cabinet and appears to be ready to go.

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OldSewinGear
6/29/2013 04:20:37 pm

It's hard to say for sure without seeing the cabinet in person, but in general...it depends on the kind of knee lever mechanism & foot control mounting bracket built into your cabinet. Many Singer cabinets are designed to work with the older-style "push button" foot control, not the later "clamshell" foot control. The 626 typically has the "clamshell" style foot control, which means you will likely need to install a different style of bracket inside the cabinet for mounting the foot control. The alternative would be to get an old style "push button" foot control for the machine. Hope this helps. If any readers have additional suggestions, please weigh in!
Barbara

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OldSewinGear
6/29/2013 04:24:38 pm

Forgot to clarify that IF the bracket and foot control are compatible it's simply a matter of sliding the foot control into the mounting bracket so that the knee lever mechanism pushes against the foot control to operate the machine. (I really need to finish my draft article on Singer cabinets...)

Richard Beman
7/13/2013 03:38:11 pm

In regard to your knee-lever, If it is in a Singer cabinet it has the "clamshell" foot control contained in the assembly. It will simply slide out so you may use it as a foot control. A suggestion, I personally do not like the "feel" or "response" of that particular control. It is a "step down" from the previous Singer control which had a double carbon pile. Remember, with all these manufactured goods, they found ways to "cut corners and cost". Basically nothing became better. You may want to retrofit it with one of the very nice new "electronic" foot controls. They last long and give the best control I have seen, from very slow to fast. Plus they never heat up or burn out (just don't drop them-plastic)..
The best of luck, I hope I was helpful.. Richard Ransom Beman

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Richard Beman
7/13/2013 03:23:51 pm

In reference to the Singer # 626 with metal gears, I found a "well loved, little used" # 628 at the Goodwill. I inspected it and saw "Metal gears" and could not believe it. It came with a cabinet (ugly, I re-donated it), and all the cams and accessories. I had seen a # 620 with metal gears, but it was in otherwise sad condition. I cleaned it, lubed it and retrofitted it with a better "double carbon pile" foot control ( the "clam-shell type have a single pile and sewing slowly is impossible). It sews beautifully... I hemmed two pair of jeans (always clip out the felled portion), and it handled the fabric beautifully, plus the tension was perfect (good luck, not all Touch and Sew machines are blessed with good tension). I don't need this machine, but the fun turquoise color and the fact that is works well have made me think I should keep this one.. Plus I have brought my fair share of "dud" machines home, only to "part them out" and take the "carcass"to the dump.
Thank you for allowing me to share my story, Richard Ransom Beman

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OldSewinGear
7/14/2013 03:30:52 am

Thanks for sharing, Richard.
I haven't personally encountered a 628, but it's great to hear that there are some out there with the steel gears we know and love.

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April Tuck
9/26/2013 04:15:38 am

I have a 626 and the position bracket keeps slipping so that I am unable to wind a bobbin much less sew. Are you familiar with this problem or am I uniquley unlucky with Singer sewing machines?

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April Tuck
9/29/2013 05:15:59 pm

Never mind, my boyfriend fixed it. The bracket had to be reattatched from the bottom. Thjanx anyway!

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Valorie
7/2/2014 04:08:33 am

I have been looking and reading various sites to see if anyone else had the problem I was having with parts slipping out while filling the bobbin. Your description sounds like my problem. Could you share how your boyfriend fixed it?

Shelia Minor link
12/15/2018 08:11:05 am

I have a Singer special T&S SEWING MACHINE MODEL 626 and the bracket came out of mine , what did your boyfriend do to fix it and I know where it came out from but what does it hook to in there and how do I put it back., hope you or him can help :) Thanks!!

John
11/12/2017 09:11:14 pm

Look for a set screw right below the slide plate (front base of machine). Loosen it and will allow you to adjust bracket. Tighten set screw when adjusted properly.

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Damianne Fischer
12/15/2013 09:35:40 am

I have inherited a 626 zig zag touch and sew. Not crazy about it, but it's all I have. It currently is making a squeeking noise and the needle bar does not want to move up and down. I plan to oil the machine and clean it. In the meantime, I took the top cover off and found that a spring attached to a small "lever" in unattached. I'm not sure where it belongs. Do you have any web links that would have photos of the machine with the top off, so that I can figure out where this spring should be attached. Thanks so much.

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OldSewinGear
12/18/2013 10:07:11 am

Please submit a Contact form and I can send you pictures of the inside of your machine.

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Jackie
1/16/2015 02:14:34 am

I have the 626 and just pulled it after 20+ years. I don't remember how to thread a bobbin. Will someone please help. Thank you!

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Nancy
8/11/2015 05:05:21 am

Did you find an answer yet? When you say "thread a bobbin" do you mean fill it? I've been using my 626 for 50 years and still have the manual. Maybe I can help.

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Nancy
8/11/2015 05:10:35 am

Sorry, my mistake. Wrong model.

Sufiyyah musa
9/16/2015 07:18:45 pm

I also have 626 its in great shape but filling bobbin is problem . Also tension is breaking the thread. Curious on what the reason or how do solve the problem. Maybe you can help me as well. Thanks

Sufiyyah musa
9/16/2015 07:21:20 pm

Google singer touch and sew 626...you will see directions . Hope that helps.

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Katherine
5/13/2015 06:25:56 pm

Hello, I recently acquired a Singer Touvh n' Sew 626 for free, and I am trying to fix it up. The bobbin doesn't spin, and I took it apart to find that some of the plastic gears underneath have broken teeth. I don't know if this is the problem, but I assume that they need to be replaced anyways.
Does anyone know if I can replace the plastic gears with metal ones? Is there any reason that it would not work?
Thank you in advance to anyone who takes the time to read this!

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Michelle Sutton link
10/5/2020 03:40:59 pm

Hi, I also purchased a 626 and was sad to discover that it also has the plastic gears. Only these gears are in good shape. I am also wondering if you can replace these with metal gears? The top horizontal bevel gear and upper vertical bevel gear are metal. Thank God for that as those are extremely costly to replace when they are plastic. Just was wondering if you had your answer? Thanks so much

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Monica Meador
5/22/2015 10:57:05 pm

I had taken my machine Model #626 to the shop they fixed it but every time i run out of bobbin thread and rewind the bobbin, the bobbin thread does not come up from the bobbin casing. I took it back to the shop he said a something came loose, how can i fix this my self because it happens every time i have to reload the bobbin thread. it is a 3 hour round trip to take it to the shop. Look for your response.

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OldSewinGear
5/25/2015 10:19:30 am

Monica, I'm not clear on what the problem is. The 626 has a wind-in-place bobbin, so the bobbin thread shouldn't have to come up, since it will already be attached to the top thread. I must be missing something here. Can you provide more information?
Barbara

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susan
6/7/2015 05:17:19 am

I have a 626 and the button you push to choose zig zag won't move. Any suggestions on how to fix?

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Julie R
8/1/2015 06:28:38 pm

I know this post is a bit old, but thank you so much for writing it! I would very much like to replace the plastic gears in my 636 with metal ones, and I'm hoping you or someone else here might know where I can get steel ones.

Could you, by chance, check the part numbers on your steel gears to see if the numbers are the same as what is on plastic ones?

I think the part numbers for the plastic set are:

163328 - Top Vertical Gear
174204 - Lower Vertical Gear
163996 - Right Lower Horizontal Shaft Gear (Timing Gear)
163997 - Hook Drive Gear
163329 - Hook Gear

I will have to check the parts lists for a bunch of similar era models, but do you know off hand what models might share the same steel gears so I can keep a lookout for them?

Thanks so much for your help! :)

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Rinae
8/6/2015 05:23:45 am

Hi, I recently purchased a 626 and have oiled it up. The plastic gears and cam stack appear intact. I can get it to straight stitch just fine and do the simple zig-zag. but it won't do the other 'fancy' stitches.. it comes out as a zig-zag. The selector isn't stuck that I can see. The follower moves easily. I'm sure what else to look for. I appreciate all the information on your site!

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OldSewinGear
8/10/2015 10:48:36 am

Rinae,
Pull the top cover off the machine and watch what happens to the mechanism when you move the stitch selector. You should see the cam follower shift position to follow a different cam. If nothing happens then either something in the mechanism is frozen or disconnected. Sewing machine oil and heat (hair dryer) will usually un-freeze stuck machinery. Disconnected machinery is a different matter. Hope this helps.
Barbara for OldSewinGear

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Rinae
8/11/2015 05:51:16 am

Thank you for the reply. I have the top off and can see the cam followerer moving smoothly up and down along the different cams. All moving parts that 8 can see *appear* appear to be moving smoothly. That's what has me stumped. I also figured if it would do the zig zag it would do the *ball* design/stitch. Hmmmm... still a mystery!

Oldsewingear
8/11/2015 12:13:40 pm

Hmmm...I'll have a chat with my guru (Dad) and see if he has any ideas.

Tori
8/12/2015 04:28:50 am

Is there a way to know whether the 626 machine has steel gears by the serial number? There is a machine offered on my local Craigslist and I'd like to be able to know about the gears, if I can look it up somewhere by serial number.

Thank you!

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Anne Martin
7/9/2017 09:10:20 am

I know this post is old, but for anyone in the future who wants to know this I will chime in with my experience. I recently purchased a 626 from goodwill auctions and it was impossible to know until it arrived if it would have metal gears. But the serial number on the machine AR006328 which from what I can gather from searching online, is one of the earlier machines of that model made. So I took a chance and bid on the machine. I was delighted to open it up and discover it has metal gears. It sews beautifully. From what I understand, the 626 was one of the models they made while they were transitioning to nylon gears. So it stands to reason that the older ones (with earlier serial numbers) are more likely to have metal gears, than later ones.

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J Haggbloom
8/17/2015 05:03:14 am

I have a 626 Touch & sew. I have had it for years. I stored it in my Florida garage. I took it apart today to find the gears have disintegrated. Is it possible to have them replaced with steel ones or even the plastic ones?

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Sandra
9/25/2015 05:17:27 pm

Is there any way that my 626 gears be replaced with steel gears I bought it a couple years ago and I haven't been able to use it since the gears are all messed up

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Lee reese
1/26/2016 02:24:47 pm

I have a singer zig zag model 626 and I have tried searching you tube and Google and other search engines trying to find out why the bobbin isn't filling and why it is not picking up thread from bobbin. Also looking for someone who will copy their manual and mail me a copy. I have cleaned and oiled it. Can't figure out why bobbin isn't filling why when I put in anothe bobbin with thread on it it won't pick up thread won't sew because of this. It has metal gears but I'm perplexed by this and I really need a free manual

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Rose Sweet
8/14/2016 01:34:07 pm

Singerco.com has the manual..free download..

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Terry shuford
4/13/2016 05:09:26 am

I have a touch and sew 626, the bobbin wind will not disengage to sew. Do you have a solution? Thank you, Terry

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sharon linnell
4/16/2016 02:33:35 pm

I have a touch and sew 626 with steal gears.. I can not get the bobbin to fill. the machine is threaded on the top. the bobbin doesn't spin to fill. thank you

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Jannie Fitzgerald
7/4/2016 08:28:16 am

I have a Touch & Sew Special Zigzag Model 648. Bought it new around 1969 or 1970. I love lI've this machine but guess have worn it out. Took it in three different times for repair. Each time was told it had jumped time and each time it cost me $50 for repair. It then sewed a couple hours and then I had the same problem again. I love the 648 and would like to get this one working or find a replacement. Any advice? Also, does the 648 have metal or plastic gears?

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Dixie Mcdowell
10/7/2017 10:38:16 am

I also have this model. It’s has nylon gears not metal.

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Billie
9/8/2016 11:21:21 pm

I JUST got my 626 touch and sew, I used it twice, and, now the bobbin won't wind. However, based on info I Have been able to find, it Should be a fairly easy fix. This machine, has proven difficult to find information on... But, I Do Love it, and Will figure out why the bobbin stopped.

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Emily
9/21/2016 05:50:53 pm

I was gifted a Singer 629 by my grandmother. I wanted to change the bobbin color so I watched YouTube videos to remove the bobbin and re-thread, but the bobbin isn't spinning when I use the foot pedal. I haven't been successful yet on finding a manual on troubleshooting for this. Does anyone know of where I could find information on fixing this problem? Thanks.

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Rose Sweet link
10/30/2016 07:00:23 am

amazon.com or eBay might have a service manual. I know there is a service manual for vintage sewing machines.

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Whitney
10/29/2016 10:41:14 am

I inherited a Singer Touch and Sew Special Zig-Zag Model 626. It has worked great, but I need to replace the needle. Can I buy needles at a Joann's that will work for this model or any suggestions as to where to find them.

Thanks

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Rose Sweet link
10/30/2016 06:58:15 am

Yes standard needles will work. Get the manual at singerco.com. It's free to look at or download.

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Terry
10/29/2016 05:38:44 pm

I have a metal 626 t&s the bobbin will not fill and I need help figuring how to fix it.

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Rose Sweet link
10/30/2016 06:56:13 am

The manual is on singerco.com website for free. That might help.

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Betty Collins
5/9/2017 12:25:01 pm

Was given a touch and sew 626 and do not know how to refill bobbin. everything seems to work except cannont get the pattern selector to move

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Annette Higgs
6/3/2017 07:31:35 am

Hi Y'all, I recently bought a 626 from a thrift store, looks to be in the original wooden cabinet . I knew it was probably not fixable for me,but plan to use cabinet for another machine. Anyway, it was gummed up after sitting so long ? I tried to cleaned and loosen it up . It still will not move when I try turning the wheel manually. I see there is a screw on the inside of the wheel,but can't even get it to move that much.Is there another way or how do I take it apart to maybe clean it? Not sure I can get it fixed,but stubborn . Also need diagram so if I manage to get it apart I can put it back. I hope this made sense.

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Hilary
9/2/2017 03:47:16 pm

I have unstuck vintage machines with a hair dryer to the stuck gears. The warm air loosens the grease I guess, and I've been able to get them moving. Of course, be sure to wiggle the hair dryer and don't hold it too close. And the old grease would need to be cleaned off and re-oiled or greased with proper sewing machine lube or oil (figure out which before you do it yourself, or take it to have it done by a professional~ shouldn't cost much I would think).

Hope that helps! Good luck.

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Kirk Carver
1/28/2018 03:14:26 pm

We inherited my mother’s Golden Touch and Sew. My wife used it for awhile until the gears started to wear out. They are the plastic kind. Is there a way to replace the plastic gears with metal ones?

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Crystal Briley
3/19/2018 04:24:53 am

Model 626 was NOT always made with steel gears. People have expressed in Facebook sewing groups they have model 626 with nylon gears. Model 620 sometimes had nylon or steel. The 620 I have has broken nylon gears. 600, 600e. 603, 603e all seem to be steel gears.

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OldSewinGear
3/19/2018 07:23:42 am

That is correct, Crystal, which is why the article states you have to remove the drip pan to see whether the gears are steel or not. But its worth taking a second look if you have the time and tools to verify. Thank you for sharing!
Barbara

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Amy link
4/14/2018 12:23:11 pm

How can I find out/where do I look on a 604 model to find out if the gears are metal?

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OldSewinGear
4/14/2018 12:26:56 pm

Amy,
You need to remove the feet from the bottom of the machine and pull off the bottom cover. You'll see gears directly beneath the bobbin compartment as shown in the photo above. If they are metal...great! Black plastic is bad...it crumbles with age. White plastic is better than black, but is still prone to splitting or gear-stripping. Hope this help!
Barbara

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Justine
4/27/2018 11:24:20 am

Old thread but seems still active, so here goes! I have an old Touch & Sew 626 with plastic gears that went bad. Took it to be looked at by reputable repairman and he says it's going to be $250 to replace all the gears. It costs that much because they machine new metal gears for it. So now I'm trying to decide if it is worth it to fix or if I should invest in a new(er) machine. I previously had a cheap Bicor that broke within a year so I'm a little leery of buying junk again. Thanks!

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Rose Sweet
4/27/2018 12:42:52 pm

That's a lot of money. It would be much cheaper to just look around for another machine.They can be bought for $50 or $70...Sometimes $10 or $20. Just make sure your next one has the metal gears already. In the meantime I ordered the nylon or plastic gears for $12.99 and there are you tube videos on how to change them. Someone mechanical could do it for you for a lot less than $250...

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Maggie Lepine
6/9/2018 09:40:24 am

Barbara, I just unscrewed my feet and my gears are a tan/brown color. They almost look like rubber. Are these bad?

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OldSewinGear
9/21/2019 09:19:58 am

It's not necessary bad if they are not cracked or stripped, but they will not have the power or longevity of the steel gears.

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Mary
11/6/2018 07:19:07 am

Just bought one on Shop Goodwill, sight unseen, so crossing my fingers it is the metal-geared version. If not, I may be replacing worn gears (it won't be the first time) but at the very least I'll have a machine that does chainstitching.

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George link
9/15/2019 04:03:31 pm

Hello. I just received an old 626 Touch and Sew, gears are metal. The bobbin and metal that covers it were in a plastic bag, not sure how to put the metal piece in so it stays there was also a T looking metal piece with a screw in the plastic bag. Any help would be appreciated. I can send a photo of the metal piece if that will help. Thanks.

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OldSewinGear
9/21/2019 09:22:50 am

Hi George,
Sounds like the slide plate and spring have come off of the machine.

Check out the article to see if it helps: https://www.oldsewingear.com/blog/spring-into-action

If not, contact me through the contact form and we can dig deeper.

Barbara

Reply
Robin
10/24/2019 11:22:08 am

Oh I'm so glad to have found you! I have my moms 626 in the cabinet. She took meticulous care of it. But it hasn't been used in 20 years. I want to start quilting and know I have to get it looked at. And learn to use it! I don't have a question (yet), but just glad to find you. ~Robin

Reply
Amy
2/7/2020 05:49:17 pm

I had a dear sweet friend of mine buy me a sewing machine, the 626 model with all metal gears in it. I need to go get it serviced soon, but until then, it still sews. I was able to buy parts for it at https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/. A new pedal, a couple of new feet and I'm in business. Just thought I would share the place where you can still buy parts for an oldie-but-goodie machine.

Reply
CeCe
4/7/2020 09:36:01 am

I have a 626, literally just started using it to make masks. My bobbing gear got stuck and then popped out, not sure how to put it back, any assistance or helpful tips would be appreciated. I sew always sewn by hand but this machine worked incredibly faster than I could imagine. Needed help fast

Reply
Amy
4/7/2020 09:46:06 am

This is a video on how to put the bobbin in and how to thread the bobbin. Hope this helps!

https://youtu.be/3p1MeUcRBSk

MKB
2/28/2020 07:08:28 pm

I always assumed Touch & Sews were crummy machines, until I recently picked up a metal-geared 600e at a thrift store and wow, it sews beautifully! Very smooth with beautiful stitching and MUCH better than I had expected.

Reply
Ce Ce
4/7/2020 09:37:19 am

Has your bobbing gear ever popped put and you were able to put back with ease? If so do tell...

Reply
Barbara Butler
4/23/2020 08:11:33 am

My machine is Singer Touch & Sew Model 626, AP857302. I bought it in 1967. Really love it. I used it last about 5 years ago and it was fine. Yesterday I tried to use it, intending to make face masks for local health care workers. I bought all the materials I need but my machine now will not cooperate. I looked underneath and it has steel gears. I can't get the bobbin to fill. So I put a bobbin in with thread in it. I thread the machine and the needle goes up and down but does not sew or fill bobbin. As I am threading the machine, the thread gets very tight when it gets to a place with a metal round thing that the thread passes through (looks like a spring), the metal looks a bit rusty and it seems to hang up there. Or not. I put a touch of oil there with no results. The Sewing Mechanic in Tallahassee is closed until sometime in May. I kind of wanted to sew these masks before then. Do you think I can fix it myself? Thank you.
Barbara in Sopchoppy, Florida

Reply
Therese Lynn Jentz
6/21/2020 09:30:22 pm

I just serviced my best friend's 626, which she inherited from Mom, who got it in on her first wedding anniversary. For years, my friend had stored it away in a closet because "it doesn't sew right". Now, after being thoroughly cleaned, lubricated and oiled inside and out, she sews as smoothly as the day in 1966 she was made. The stitch quality is superb! I'm a home sewer with average mechanical aptitude, but with excellent guidance in the user manual, I was able to perform all the basic maintenance needed. With beautiful straight & zig-zag, as well as some nice built-in decorative stitches (internal cam stack), this machine is a sewer's delight.

Reply
Julia
7/20/2020 05:56:57 pm

Hello, hope someone can help me with that issue. The needle on my Singer touch and see 626 is crashing against the bottom of the "disk" as it reaches the end of its stroke. I've removed the bobbin and bobbin case and can see there are open areas of the "disk" they rest in that are for the needle to pass through. Before the end of the needle stroke, the "disk" turns too far and the needle point hits a closed area.
It happened after I tried to wind a bobbin and the threads got jammed. I was wondering if it's something I can fix by myself?

Reply
Emily
8/15/2020 06:31:05 pm

I have a Singer Touch and Sew 626 that I just bought secondhand. The woman I bought it from repairs machines, and it seemed to work fine when she was showing it to me. I unthreaded the machine and emptied the bobbin so I could attempt to thread it myself. That part went fine, and I’m 99% sure I threaded it right. But when I tried to use the bobbin winder, it just kept jamming. The thread will start to wind and partially load the bobbin but then just jam up. I’m new to sewing and could be wrong, but I’m fairly confident that the problem is the positioning bracket that holds the bobbin case in place. It just feels loose when it sits in place, and after I try to load the bobbin, I have to reposition it because it will rattle out of place. I’ve found videos of similar models, and on them, the bracket is either held in place with a screw or seems to be hinged or something that prevents it from just easily sliding out like mine does. The manual just says “push position bracket to left until it snaps down, locking bobbin case in place,” but I don’t hear or feel a snap when I push, and I can’t find a video of a mechanism exactly like this. I also looked up the part, and it seems to be intact and not damaged in any way. Any help would be appreciated!

Reply
Anne
1/7/2021 03:22:31 pm

Look on youtube for a gent going by the13thsword he does a tutorial on the 626. In the comments an explanation for your problem pops up. Basically there is a spring hidden in the hole the long tab goes into. If you look underneath the machine you'll see the bottom of the spring. Slide the long tab into its slot pushing it against the bottom. You should feel the tab slide into a spring. Now the lock should snap back into place properly. Keep fiddling with it if it does go in the first time. You will feel it slide under the spring

Reply
Gussie
9/23/2020 12:05:12 pm

I read speculation online that the 262s with white print on the face plate have metal gears, but those with dark print have plastic or nylon. Does anyone know if this might be valid? I'm looking at one up for auction with brown print. If nothing else, what is the situation with your own machine? Thanks.

Reply
Jennifer Orozco
9/5/2021 07:37:26 pm

That's not true. I have a pink face with brown print and just received my machine today. I opened it up and was happy to find all metal gears.

Now, if I could just find a foot control! 🤦

Reply
Michelle Sutton link
10/5/2020 03:29:22 pm

Hi, I also just purchased a "Pink" 626 Touch n Sew. I am so excited to get it sewing. The top horizontal bevel gear and upper bevel gear are metal. I looked at the bottom of the machine and the lower vertical bevel gear is in good shape for it's age, no cracks or breaks along with the horizontal lower bevel gear that it attaches with. The hook drive shaft is great and the hook drive shaft bevel gears that spin the bobbin are also in good shape. I have read though that people are wanting to replace these plastic gears with metal gears. Is it possible to order metal lower gears to fit the 626?

Reply
Christie Bath
11/23/2020 08:57:09 pm

I recently received my moms sewing machine, which I learned on so it has lots of sentimental value. It is a Singer Touch and Sew 636. I took the bottom off and it appears to be metal gears... but i could be very wrong! I haven’t been able to find much if anything online. Does anyone happen to know if the 636 has metal gears. Regardless, I’m keeping it and the beautiful sewing table it sits in. Thanks in advance!
I do have pictures if I can upload them somewhere.

Reply
Hattie Yates
11/24/2020 10:38:58 am

how to gt front piece off to get the light socket replaced to get into replace the light soccet

Reply
Hattie Yates
11/24/2020 03:23:41 pm

get the plate off the front of a 603E singr to replace the light socket?

Reply
Anne
1/7/2021 03:35:15 pm

Hattie, Move lever to straight stitch, pull off knob. Move needle to center. Move width to one. Look around for any visible screw on plastic front, unscrew. Now gently pry it away from the bottom up, as it hangs up on various levers push them down to loosen front. Be gentle. Be patient, there are tabs holding it in at the top. It should come off fairly easily.

Reply
Anne
1/7/2021 03:40:07 pm

So here's my problem. I got my ^@^ in 1970 and haven't used it in about 30 years. I've rebuilt and replaced all the gears. Cleaned all the parts. For the life of me I cannot get the bobbin case installed properly. I fixed the position lock so it properly latches. One of the videos I watched says to slot the case onto the metal ring. I remember cussing this decades ago and by accident getting it in properly. What's the trick?

Reply
Amy
5/18/2021 08:01:46 pm

There's a place on the front of the machine and underneath the machine that has a screw in it. I played with the screw by unscrewing it all the way and reinstalling the screw with the bobbin metal thingy where it needed to be to get the bobbin metal thingy to stay in place correctly. It was the tension on those two screws that fit it in properly.
Hope this helps!

Reply
Jean McNamara
6/6/2021 05:33:32 pm

Where can I find bobbins for my Singer Touch & Sew Zig Zag Model 626

Reply
Jeanie M
11/4/2021 03:02:52 am

I recently bid on Singer Touch and Sew Model 636 and won bid. I am looking for hints and tips from anyone who has this model. I am excited to receive it, get it serviced and use/play with it. All information appreciated!

Reply
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Julia Ramsey
1/23/2022 11:46:47 am

I recently picked up a touch & sew special zig zag model 626 with steel gears at a thrift shop. It is in really superb condition, except that it is totally missing the position bracket which holds the bobbin case in place. So I can't wind a bobbin or sew at all. Does anyone know where I could buy this part/how easy it will be to replace? Is there a specific part number for the position bracket? Thanks all!

Reply
Amy P.
4/15/2022 07:08:44 am

Julia,

Search for the part at sewingpartsonline.com. They will have a replacement bracket.

Amy

Reply
Marcie Fessler
4/12/2022 09:54:06 pm

Does anyone have an old Singer Golden Touch N Sew (sorry I don't know the model number) in a cabinet that has a knee presser bar? My mom had one, it's what I learned to sew on. I hate that you can't do knee control any more. The one I learned on had a regular foot pedal, but the cabinet had a bracket inside it where you inserted the foot pedal, and then when you pressed the knee bar it activated the button on the foot pedal. If I could get some photos of what that looked like, I have a friend who can probably make one for me for my current machine.

Reply
Amy P.
4/15/2022 07:23:50 am

Marcie,

Take a look at this ebay listing. There are pictures of the bracket in the post. The bracket looks like the one I have on my 626 model.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/184805789870?hash=item2b074890ae:g:qSgAAOSw-tlgjYBW

Hope this helps,
Amy

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CHERYL D WOOD
10/2/2022 11:14:29 am

I was given a 626 with metal gears that was stored for 30+ years. I gave it a good cleaning and oiled per the manual. It was covered in years of dust and dirt.

It worked fine for a bit yesterday but then the Needle Position Selector Bar stopped working properly. It moves to the Right position fine and then won't move into Center but moves slightly between the Right position and Center. When I move the bar to the Left it then moves into the slightly off-center position and not to the left.

The strange thing is it was working when I was doing test stitching.

Can anyone point me in the direction on how to fix this? I've been researching but can't find how to do it. Thank you.

Reply
Tanya Stinson
11/23/2022 07:10:42 am

Just thought I would add that I have a Singer 625 Touch & Sew zig zag deluxe with all metal gears. I do recall that not all of them do though.

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