Hi folks.  Can anybody tell me what the correct needle length is for  
the 29k machines? 
I'm yet another of those nutcases battling a 29k.  It's a 29k60  
long arm patcher.  It's a beautiful machine and I stubbornly believe 
in its potential.   Based on many factors I think it needs TLC, but 
is far from knackered. 
When I first got it I went to a local upholstery shop to get the 
correct thread and needles.  The people were nice but their English 
was a little sketchy.  After all my diagnosis I've discovered that 
I have needles in the wrong system.  I believe they are too long  
by a small amount.  They sold me needles for walking-foot upholstery 
machines, but these are, I've now surmised, a slightly different  
length than 29k system needles. 
I'm pretty handy and I would like to cut down one of my needles 
to determine if the needle length is the source of the problem.  I 
measured the needles I have with a dial caliper.  They are in 
the 1.720" range. 
I've learned a great deal from posts here about the 29k machines, 
so thanks to all who share their knowledge here.