glennaycock

Thanks, Wiz. What I discovered after playing with it a bit is that the servo won't even turn the machine unless it's set to about half-speed. I can control it easily, but it doesn't have much torque. You recommend getting the 500GR?

I got a steal of a deal on a practically new, Japan-made Consew 206RB-5 with servo motor. Man, that is one bad mother! I'm impressed.

The guy with the Seiko was a flake. I found a practically new Consew 206RB, identical to the Seiko, here locally. Going to pick it up tonight. I may still order the GR500.

No, no...I'm not thinking about replacing the motor on the 301. That's just what I inherited from my grandmother, and it sews 3-4oz leather pretty well. I'm looking for an industrial model, like a Consew 206RB as you suggested. I'm pretty sure that I don't want a clutched motor, but I wanted to make sure that a servo motor would meet my needs. I'm working a local deal for a Japan-made Seiko walking foot, so hopefully that works out.

Howdy folks, A local company has several gaylords of 3-4oz upholstery leather scraps in a variety of colors that they want to get rid of (in bulk). A lot of it small but still useful. I frequently find pieces with several square feet and occasionally find half-to-whole hides with minor blemishes. I have been buying individual pieces from them for a few dollars. This leather is perfect for bags, motorcycle seats and accessories, etc. What's the going rate for this kind of bulk scrap leather? Would anyone be interested in buying by the pound?

Thanks, Wiz. Another question: There's a video from Sailrite comparing servo motors to their MC-SCR drive. They claim that when set on the lowest speed that servo motors have very little torque. I'm currently running a Singer 301. It generally does fine for two layers of leather, but when running over seams making 3 layers, it just needs a little more umph! How does the SewPro 500GR overcome the torque problem at slow speeds?

Wiz, Thanks for all the great information! I read your take on "industrial strength" junk on Ebay. I'm in the market for an entry level (inexpensive) industrial machine for leather upholstery and motorcycle seats. On Ebay, there is a bewildering variety of new, Chinese-made machines, all apparently produced in the same factory and branded as Juki, Feiyue, Consew, Sailrite, Yamata, Family, Morris, SEWLine -- even Pfaff and Singer. I've got my eye on the 8300/8500/8700-type models and the similar walking-foot models. I believe companies like Sailrite may import their machines and make improvements and/or at least test them thoroughly, based on their website and videos. I have read comments like "Juki, Pfaff, and Singer machines aren't what they used to be." Since it's inevitable that most manufacturing is moving to China these days, can I assume that these machines that look identical are identical? The material qualities could differ or the internals might be different. I'm very confident I could handle most mechanical issues, but I am hesitant to risk a large sum for an imported machine, particularly with high shipping charges, when I am unable to find any/positive reviews. I see posts for various machines locally on Craigslist, but I am concerned about their age/condition/history for the price. Should I try to find an older Japan-made model or new(er) Chinese model for same money? Your guidance is greatly appreciated.

Both sewing machines carried by Harbor Freight are made by Feiyue, a popular Chinese company. They are sold under various names, including Chicago Electric, Yamata, and possibly Sailrite. At $299 (3914) and $599 (92966), they seem like a great deal. Most power tools sold by HF are junk, but there are a few rare treasures. You can get replacement parts from one of the above mentioned dealers. I am considering the 3914 for stitching leather motorcycle seat covers, but since both of these are clutch machines, I'm not sure I could handle either. I may buy a Singer CG-590 instead for about the same price.