I have an old black electric sewing machine in wooden cabinet with the brandname UNIVERSAL (made in Japan). I do not know how old it is but would like to know how to find a manual for it and also an estimate of the value. I have been unable to find any info on this brand anywhere. Please help

Have you tried the following search? UNIVERSAL Sewing Machine Instruction Manual - Google Search (http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&safe=off&q=UNIVERSAL+Sewing+Machine+Instruction+Manual) You might find some information helpful to you on the search.

I don't know about the value of it.

Japanese sewing machines used a lot of diiferent American names. The JA number under the machine is the real thing to tell who made it. There is a Yahoo group vintagejapanesesewing machines that have information, generic manuals and great people who may be able to help you.

As far as value, Japanese machines are solid, well built machines. Unfortunately, they do not hold their value and collectors usually rate them at about $25 or lower depending on condition and what is included. There are other buyers looking for an inexpensive, decent machine that may pay a little more. (their child is starting to sew, they want to learn to sew without a large, expensive investment in the beginning, etc... )