Singer 656, 676 Instruction Manual
![Singer 656, 676 manual cover](/images/d30c3d00689d54945a61ac43/thumbs/thumb175x175.webp)
To thread the Singer 656, first raise the presser foot and turn the handwheel towards you to raise the needle. Place the spool on the spool pin, pull the thread through the thread guide, and follow the threading path indicated on the machine. Finally, thread the needle from front to back.
Check the needle to ensure it is not bent or dull. Re-thread the machine, making sure the thread is properly seated in the tension discs. Also, ensure you are using the correct needle type and size for your fabric.
Regular maintenance includes cleaning the lint from the bobbin area, oiling the machine as per the manual's instructions, and checking for any loose screws or parts. Always unplug the machine before performing maintenance.
A loud noise could be due to a lack of lubrication, a bent needle, or a buildup of lint in the bobbin area. Clean the machine, replace the needle, and oil the machine according to the manual.
Ensure the feed dogs are raised and not damaged. Check the presser foot pressure and make sure it is appropriate for the fabric being used. Also, ensure the stitch length is correctly set.
To adjust tension, use the tension dial on the machine. For general sewing, a setting of 4 or 5 is suitable. Test on a scrap piece of fabric and adjust as needed. Ensure the machine is properly threaded before making adjustments.
Thread bunching, or "bird nesting," can occur due to incorrect threading, incorrect bobbin placement, or tension issues. Re-thread the machine and bobbin, ensuring the thread is correctly seated in the tension discs.
Place an empty bobbin on the bobbin winder spindle, guide the thread from the spool through the bobbin winding tension disc, and then into the bobbin hole. Push the bobbin to the right to engage winding, and start the machine.
For heavy fabrics like denim or canvas, use a needle size of 16/100 or 18/110. Ensure the needle is suitable for the type of fabric to avoid skipped stitches or needle breakage.
Ensure the bobbin is correctly inserted and that there is no lint or debris in the bobbin case area. Check the bobbin tension and make sure the bobbin is wound evenly. Clean and reassemble the bobbin area if necessary.