Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500017
06/24/03
Salvaging Flooded Sewing Machines
Most damage to flooded sewing machines is caused by
rust. Even if the machine was not submerged, check for
rust caused by general dampness. Rust develops quickly on
highly polished, machined or plated surfaces. Corrosion
can ruin thread handling parts within a few days. The
machine head should be serviced by your local dealer
within 10 days if possible.
If professional reconditioning is not immediately
available, follow this procedure to minimize damage.
Head and motor
1. Disassemble the sewing head as for normal cleaning.
2. Clean with a brush and liberal application of cleaning
solvent or kerosene.
3. Oil thoroughly, reassemble, and operate the machine
several minutes to distribute the oil through the
bearings.
4. Take the electric motor and control to an electrical
service shop for drying and inspection.
Parts and attachments
1. Soak parts and attachments in kerosene or other
suitable cleaner.
2. Drain parts and soak in oil.
3. Remove oil from parts and examine for rust stains.
4. Rub remaining rust stains with a cloth dampened with
paint thinner.
5. As a last resort gently rub rusted parts with very
fine steel wool. Reapply a light coating of oil to these
spots.
6. Before sewing, remove oil from thread handling parts.
7. Clean attachments the same way.
Cabinets
Allow the cabinet to dry for a month or two. If it
has been damaged beyond repair, any veneer weakness or
core damage will show up during this time. The veneer may
warp, split, or lift. The extent of damage depends on how
much of the cabinet was submerged and for how long.
This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus, with reference from the USDA
Disaster Handbook.
This information is for educational purposes only. References
to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not
mentioned. This information becomes public property upon
publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU
Extension. Reprinting cannot be used to endorse or advertise
a commercial product or company.
MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State
University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race,
color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability,
political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status.
Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in
cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Thomas G. Coon, Director,
MSU Extension, East Lansing,MI 48824. This information is for educational
purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.
This file was generated from data base 02 on 02/04/08.
Data base 02 was last revised on 06/24/03.
For more information about this data base or its contents please contact
strausc@msu.edu .