I just got my new (to me) Gem Featherweight. There seems to be some play in the hinged door with a blade installed. Should the door rattle when there is a blade installed? If not, what can I adjust to eliminate the rattle? Thanks!
No, there shouldn't be at all, especially not with a blade loaded and closed up. Perhaps the door was torqued in the past. First thing I'd check is to see if the hinges on the sides might be tightened inward a bit. Other than that, no idea.
Had a featherweight that rattled. It was still secure, but I think it was the mechanism that you have to push to open up the plate to insert the blade. Still worked fine, but nonetheless a little disconcerting especially if you just received it. I would say that if the blade is still held firm and secure, you should be alright with it. If not, I would guess that the spring mechanism has been weakened from years of use.
