Salvaging Sewing Machines and Similar Equipment

Collier CountyEmergency Management

Salvaging Sewing Machines and Similar Equipment

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Salvaging Sewing Machines

Most damage to flooded sergers or 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, unpainted or plated surfaces. Corrosion can ruin thread handling parts within a few days. The serger or sewing 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 the damage to the head and motor:

Allow to dry naturally in a warm, dry place.
Spray lightly on metal parts with WD-40 to prevent rusting. Do not get WD-40 on non metal parts or electrical components.
Take to the dealer so they can disassemble the head.
Carefully clean with gasoline, alcohol or kerosene.
The dealer will completely re-oil the machine, reassemle and operate the machine for several minutes to distribute the oil through the bearings. The correct sewing machine oil must be used.
In some cases, the mechanic may need to completely disassemble the machine in order to clean out the meshings and bearings properly.
If making repairs yourself it is a good idea to take it to an electrician so they can inspect the machine.

Parts and Attachments

Spray with WD-40. Soak parts and attachments in kerosene, alcohol or gasoline to completely remove WD-40.
Drain parts and soak in sewing machine oil.
Remove oil from parts and examine for rust stains.
Rub remaining rust stains with a cloth dampened with paint thinner.
As a last resort, gently rub rusted parts with very fine steel wool. Reapply a light coating of oil to these spots.
Before sewing, remove oil from thread handling parts.
Clean attachments in the same way.

This information taken from a pamphlet prepared by:

The Collier County Cooperative Extension Service
14700 Immokalee Road
Naples, FL 33964
239 353 4244

For additional Collier County hurricane information, write or call:

Collier County Emergency Management
3301 East Tamiami Trail
Naples, Florida 34112
(239) 774-8444

For additional Collier County hurricane information, write or call:

(Emergency Services Division, Board of County Commissioners, Collier County Florida)