airthug84

Ok, been doing more research... here is what the industry expert is using for this same application: Juki 563 w/either 92 or 138 thread Consew 733R w/"5-chord" thread Part of my dilemma has been that I'm trying to find ONE machine to do what everyone else seems to do with two... The absolute minimum thread size I need to use for the structural components is 207. Most places are saying that if I need one all-around machine, high-lift walking foot, that can use 207 thread, then the Juki 1508NH is what I crave. Other than that, I'm hearing I'd be better off with two machines. While 2 machines would be ideal, I don't think I have the budget at this time... I'm looking at between 2-3k for a new 1508NH w/motor, table, etc, which is still high for what I have budgeted. Used class7 machines seem to start about there, and it would be really impractical to sew the smaller stuff on a big machine, so that won't work for me... a local shop here has the 1508NH machine with a heavy duty table and a 3/4 horse servo motor... That's definitely where I'm leaning. If business is good and later down the road I can afford a class 7 monster and run "5-chord", all the better... but for now, all of my research has pointed me toward the 1508NH. When I say thick work, I probably mean 1/2" to 3/4", layers of 600 denier cloth, 1/4" foam, 3,4,5 layers of webbing, and sometimes some 'ballistic' pack cloth. I'll also be sewing velcro, zippers, things like that... but that's not the thick stuff... And I definitely need a flatbed machine... Does anyone have any experience with the Juki 1508NH... particularly if you've used it with 207 thread??? -Ryan

Thanks TwinOaks! I'm going to check out some local shops here in Salt Lake, then I'll call Bob as you suggested.... and I'll keep an eye on this thread to see if others have ideas about what I should look for... Thanks again!

Hello all, I'm new to this forum, but let me say how impressed I have been with the amount of knowledge and info available here... thanks to everyone that's contributed! I'm in the market for a heavy-duty machine... problem is, I'm not really sure models I should be considering. I will be making safety harnesses, sewing through fairly thick work consisting of foam, layers of webbing, etc. Walking foot mandatory. Pretty high lift foot would be really useful, and a large bobbin would be nice but isn't mandatory. Reverse IS mandatory. I also require a machine that can use 207 thread. I have some experience on a Juki LU-563, but am told it will not sew 207 thread? I could also use a higher lifting foot than the 563, although I was able to squeeze stuff under there with some effort. I did some shopping and was told with certainty (by a salesman mind you) that the Juki 1508NH was THE machine for me... but at ~$2400, it's a bit out of my range. I've also been told not to buy new? Any advice on some models to consider would be GREATLY appreciated!!! Or if you have a 1508NH (used), or something appropriate for my needs, that you'd be willing to part with???? I'm located in Utah, but am willing to travel for the right machine. Thanks so much for your help.... -Ryan