It’s time to clean and oil my sewing machine (for the first time), and one of the screws that holds down the bobbin plate is stuck-stuck-stuck. I’ve tried putting a drop of machine oil on it. Does anybody have any great ideas for getting it loose?
Try putting a proper sized scewdriver into the slot and sharply rapping down on the top of the handle. Just don’t use too heavy a hammer as too much force could damage the screw and/or the screwdriver. A thinner oil might work better, like WD40, or other “penetrating” oil. If that doesn’t work, you might try holding the tip of a soldering iron on the screw, to heat it, and then immediately try unscrewing it. A proper sized screwdriver is essential to avoid damaging the screw. Also be patient w/ the oil, it may take quite some time and several applications to work.
Just to piggyback A.R. Cane a bit — you could also try a penetrating spray. For example, I’ve used (and had good luck with) Liquid Wrench. You just spray it on and give it a little time to work its way down and around the screw. After a few minutes, you should be able to unscrew the screw.
When you reinsert the screws you might put a bit of beeswax, candle wax or soap from a dry bar (not liquid) on the threads to ensure they won’t stick next time.
“Liquid Wrench” is exactly the type of light oil I was referring to. If you have a source of compressed air, maybe the canned type, you might want to blow any debris out of the screw holes before reassembly.
Harumph. I’m surprised that nobody has made the obvious joke yet.
So am I.
Thanks for tips; will try. What sucks is that, because the bobbin plate is right under the sewing head, I cannot get any kind of real screwdriver in there. I can only use the little turn-key thing that came with the machine.
Are you sure that this screw is supposed to be removed? Some parts of these machines are not “user servicable” and the screw may have Lock Tite holding it in place.
Just a WAG from prior experience.
I’m absolutely sure. The manual only describes two kinds of user-performed maintenance: changing the light bulb, and cleaning/oiling under the bobbin plate. I gots to get the screw loose!
I’m not sure I know exactly what your turn-key looks like, so forgive me if you’ve already thought of this or it’s not physically possible. But, have you tried using a pair of pliers to grab the turn-key in order to get some leverage. You just have to be extremely careful to keep the turnkey firmly in the screw so as not to strip the screwhead.
With all due respect to the prior posters, may I suggest that you have to know when to hold em and know when to fold em.
I would suggest that you take it to the shop.
If you continue attempting to remove the screw and damage the slot, you will turn a minor problem into a major hassle.
YMMV and just my $0.02
Would an ofset screwdiver work. It might give you the ability to sharply tap on the screw head, as I suggested above, plus better leverage. Here’s a pic, but you can buy one locally:
http://www.hobbytool.com/browseproducts/2-pc.-Offset-Screwdriver-Set.HTML
$20, same as in town? :dubious:
They make right angle screw drivers and also offset rachet screwdrivers. You can find variants of the example listed above in a variety of stores. This gives you the ability to apply a lot of tork and also to use the correct size screwdriver bit. I’ve seen them priced from $3 to $12. Print out a copy of the link and use it to describe what you’re looking for when shopping. Buy the cheapest one you can find. There’s no difference in quality given the nature of the tool. Start looking at Odd Lots/Big Lots, Peb Boys. The one listed above is usually the cheapest and most versatile. One side accepts standard torx bits and the other side acts as a 1/4 inch socket wrench (the thumbwheel comes off). Some sets only have the screw driver bits while others include the sockets (good for future use).
When using penetrating oil you might want to apply it and wait up to 24 hrs for it to work (applying small amounts during that time).
Other examples of offset rachet screwdrivers (not as good as style listed above)
Stanley Tools version (not as versatile and overpriced)
Ace Hardware version (Similar to Stanley version that uses double ended bits)
Sears Craftsman
Good luck
I gave up and took it to the shop. The local shop doesn’t charge anything, if the labor comes out to less than $50–so let’s hope it does.
Filthy mind.
The obvious joke is that we were all under the impression that Sattua already HAD a screw loose. 
When you get it back you can remove the screws and oil them with 3in1 oil. That will keep it out of the shop in the future.
I really hate to disagree w/ you, especially considering your screen name, but 3 in one has a petroleum base and will dry out, over time, and cause the screws to stick. Much better to use wax or soap. “Never Seize” would be good, but it seems impractical for the small amount that would be needed in this situation. 
I thought the obvious joke was : “Listen to Rush Limbaugh”
A proper screwdriver is a must. So often the wrong driver will turn a screw to mush and then you have a devil of a time. I assume you’ve tried the one in a thousand chance that the screw is left-threaded?
If you have followed all of the previous suggestion the interior of the bobbin area is swimming in all kinds of oils. Dry it up with paper towel or tissue.
You did raise amd remove the presser foot first?
At this point the screw head should be unobstructed.
IF the slot has not been damaged insert a close fitting screw driver and TAP it with a small 2 oz. hammer while applying a torque or twist to the screw driver. Use a third hand (of a helper).
When all else fails take it to the company store. Usually they will be helpful and charge only for parts for something simple like a stuck screw.
I was going to say ask my wife, worked for me.