I've had this machine for around 3 years now (I think). It's a black cast iron 201K, with motor and pedal. It cleaned up fine when I first bought it, and it turned out to be my favorite machine ever since (I have a freearm model with zigzag and lots of stitches right next to it, which is nice too).
After replacing motor belts, bobbin tyre, and a lot of cleaing and oiling, a center screw under the bobbin case gradually caught my attention. I never was able to loosen it, but last night it came out effortlessly. The only thing I can imagine is that repeated oiling and using the machine the last few years has done something.
I had the bobbin case out last night. By now it's self made dust and fluff I clean out, production of it seems to be endless though. I made an attempt at the center screw and it came out with no effort at all. I could tell I had managed to clean rather well by poking cotton buds and tooth picks from under the base of the machine as well as above. There weren't any troublesome grime and dirt if anyone else should worry about similar stuck screws.
There is one good reason to get this part out though. It has springs for for the bobbin case closing ring. If these springs are reluctant to click in place on the side of the locking ring they might be packed with dirt and grime. I already had noticed this trouble on my machine, but couldn't get the part out. I poked these clips as clean as I could with toothpicks and pins, and I managed rather well. I didin't really know this though until I had the part out too inspect behind the springs. I cleaned out a bit of dried up oil and grime, but it wasn't absolutely a must.
To sum it all up; with a bit of effort this area can be cleaned with the part in place. It was nice to have it confirmed though. If a screw or part is stuck, what works are: oil, clean, keep on oiling and cleaning, use the machine and be patient :- )
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