So I have been cleaning it off and boy howdy is it filthy! I cleaned the first three layers off with vinegar. tomorrow I am using some citrus cleaner and then soap and water before I sand the finish off and refinish it. We discovered that it has a short (fixable) and it will require the installation of it's own outlet as it draws 240 volts and the current outlet only offers 120. I am thrilled nonetheless!
you are lucky no one converted it to 120 as most industrial machine are 240 and have alot of power it is always sad when they get changed and loose some of their strength.
Tasha! It's beautiful, is the motor separate? If it is just keep your eyes peeled for a 120 volt motor. I have an industrial sewing machine and it has a separate motor and can run on 120,but could be changed out to run on 220 if need be. A re-built is about $50, but you might get lucky! KarenP