absolutely smoke those hides , they are probably alum tanned , the smoke will onlyl help them should they get wet, I soak my hides and stretch them on plywood to get the wrinkles out
I too have a 29-4 in excellent condition, its never been stored , has never been out of service. I need the flat spring on the rocker arm (thread end) that helps tighten the stitch, could you put me in contact with your guy Bob for parts
I totally agree my first machine was a 29-4 Ive made a lot of money with that old 40 dollar machine, I still use it daily. I wouldnt be without mine I sew patches on vests jackets boots shoes etc make small leather goods on it its just a great old machine
I bought a 5 dollar pr of thongs traced the outline and foung the 3 basicc strap holes then did my own thing once you know these basics the rest is easy I used very small clinching tacks to secure the straps to the sole in addition to BARGE when nailed from under neath only the tips of the clinch shows