I picked up an ancient (1930) Singer sewing machine on freecycle a couple of weeks ago. Turns out I'm having a ball resurrecting the thing and learning a (useful) new skill in the process. So far, my only expenditure as been some oil. Everything else I've had on hand. I'm a long way from making stitches but I have found some amazing online sources and an online group to help me. I'm confident now that it will sew pretty soon.
I am wondering about very old (pre-WWII) electric motors. This motor is original and, if it's like the rest of the machine, probably completely gunked up. The housing is bakelite. Does anyone have any experience with these? I've found an online source and, while I could buy a new one, this one is working (sluggishly) and doesn't smell awful, so I figure it might be salvageable. Plus, I'm sort of up for the challenge. I've been doing all kinds of things I never have before, why not small motor repair?
If anyone can suggest a good way to get started (as in, not shattering the bakelite, what absolutely NOT to do with a small electric motor, etc) I'd really appreciate it.
Thanks.