Sewing machine "Chaika-3": description and operating instructions

There is a sewing machine in almost every second house. In this article we will talk about the Seagull-3, a Soviet-made model that still remains popular.

"Chaika-3" refers to mechanical class of sewing machines.

The advantages of this model include:

• structural reliability;
• high quality materials used in the production and, as a result, the durability of the device;
• the ability to sew thick and coarse textiles;
• ease of use;
• ease of maintenance.

Only a couple of points can be considered disadvantages:

• the model is outdated, there are no modern "bells and whistles" and additional functions;
• the need to adjust, "tune" the machine for you and your needs.

Of course, an instruction manual is usually included with the product upon purchase. But what if you inherited the machine or as a gift from your relatives? If so, a brief summary of how to handle this model will help you.

So, let's figure out what can and cannot be done while working at the "Chaika-3".

First of all it is necessary to properly care for the sewing machine - regularly clean and lubricate the mechanism, avoiding excessive contamination and thickening of the grease. The minimum interval between maintenance procedures is 6 months.

One of the important points in the procedure for lubricating the internal mechanism of the "Seagull" is that all moving parts must be filled with oil. It is in these places that a destructive friction force arises, which gradually wears out the mechanism and leads to breakdowns. Therefore, do not overlook minor and insignificant, in your opinion, articulations of details.

And also when lubricating it is important to observe the measure - usually a couple of drops of oil are enough for one small unit. It is especially important not to overdo it with grease in the area where the needles are attached - excess grease will contaminate the fabric when sewing.

In addition, it is important to choose the right needle for sewing different fabrics. There are specific sewing needle numbers for each type of textile material:

• No. 70 - thin, delicate fabrics (cambric, silk);
• No. 80 - slightly denser (satin, chintz, poplin and the like);
• No. 90 - coarse calico, flannel, cotton and woolen (thin) materials;
• No. 100 - suit and woolen fabrics of regular thickness;
• No. 110 - denim and non-woven fabrics, wool fabrics of increased thickness.

A separate item in the user manual is the threading point.

Threading the upper thread is fairly easy. It is necessary to place the spool on the upper holder-rod and, taking the end of the thread, carefully pass it through the tensioning mechanism, consisting of a compensating spring loop and a round lock, and then insert it into the eye of the needle.

Before threading the bobbin case, lift the needle up by turning the handwheel and lock it in this position. Move aside the shuttle cover plate. Pull out the bobbin case. Place a bobbin of thread inside it. Pull the end of the thread out: place it under the spring plate and out through the groove. Check the thread - it should pull out fairly easily with barely noticeable effort. Then, the bobbin case must be reinstalled until it clicks. If, when installing the cap, a clicking sound is not heard when the latch is activated, this means that the cap has not been locked, and when the handwheel is turned, it will also turn and may break the upper needle.

Despite the fact that the "Seagull" can not be attributed to modern models, users are mostly happy with this machine... First of all, the durability and reliability of the structure, ease of operation and maintenance are noted. This sewing machine is one of those that, as they say, "made for centuries." After all, even those released from the factory during the Soviet Union still work pretty well and require only minor repairs and adjustments.

Of course, it does not have newfangled functions, but it is comfortable, functional and reliable, it even sews thick fabrics. Among the shortcomings, some users note only a certain capriciousness of the model, which, according to the assurances of experts, disappears as the person and the machine are “rubbed in”.

Let's summarize. If you were presented with "Chaika-3", do not rush to be upset, just try it in practice, and believe me - you are unlikely to be disappointed.

How to work with the "Chaika-3" typewriter, see below.