SARK9

Some random info I've gathered about this fabric-type machine as we move along. The 251-21, like the 281-21, is the short arm version of these commonplace machines, with an 8 inch clearance to the column and a table cutout of 15-1/4". My example does indeed use the 16X257 needle rather than the 88X9 listed by the ISMACS chart, but I was interested to learn that this *same* needle in sizes larger than #18 is designated the "16X95". I bought some #19 & #20 16X95 Schmetz needles to verify this. The max foot lift IS 9/32" rather than 3/8ths, and the max stitch length is 7 per inch. Several similar machines have 5-1/2 stitches per inch listed as an option so I'll be keeping an eye out for some likely relics to canibalize & see if there is some easy parts swapping to be done. My impression of this model is that is is a pretty rigid, sturdy, basic straight stitcher with some pretty significant dimensional limitations, but otherwise not too different from the 31-15 for use as a utility mule. Mine will hopefully be finding happiness as a dedicated tape binder for 2-6 layers of coated 1000D Cordura, and some quick trials have shown it is totally happy stitching/tensioning T-90 thread. If I had a single main complaint about this series of machine it would have to be that the bobbin size is absolutely miniscule for using anything heftier than T-45 thread. My stand came with a small clutch motor that someone had to adapt to the table, as it does not use the standard 3-hole bolt pattern, and I was surprised to discover I could actually CONTROL the clutch engagement and stitch as slow or as fast as I liked. Too bad the iron outboard races for the pulley unit are worn to a rattle fit that is beyond the ability of grease to amend. More discoveries as they occur! -DC

The Juki LU-563 should have reverse, plus the way larger *U* bobbin. The 225 is ....without reverse. I'd go with the 563 myself. -DC

Hi CD- I've mounted several shop-made reducers to similar machines with few issues. The troubles I've run into were simple location issues. With the large (8-9") driven pulley on the reducer, I have encountered some clearance issues with the larger diameter motor pulleys- the two will actually interfere when you locate the reducer mount so that its small pulley is aligned with the sewing machine pulley. You may need to switch out the motor pulley for a smaller one to gain some room closer to the motor for your mounts. The other issue is just to be able to shift the motor towards the "right" toward the nearer K-leg so that the motor pulley is aligned with the large driven pulley's offset. We have a chain of stores in my area called "Tractor Supply" that has a good selection of 3L belts in the usual size ranges... They usually have the smaller motor pulley you need as well...but not the 15mm bore type I need on servos. I have a picture of one of mine mounted under a Chandler CU-563 which is similar to your Consew.

Steve and Bob -Thank you both for your replies, and my appologies for taking this long to respond. Part of the conflicting info I've been a bit stumped by is this excerpt from the 251-21 PARTS manual- And some very different information from other sites such as ISMACS.

New guy to the forum here. I'm having a bit of a time finding much info about this particular machine...I am wanting to set this up as a dedicated binder for edging a couple of layers of 1000D Cordura, but I'm finding conflicting info as to even which needle system is correct for this variant. I did find a parts list specific to this machine, but no general operating manual with the specs. I was pretty much given the machine and stand with not so much as a spare bobbin, let alone the paperwork. Has anyone here used of of these and/or maybe seen a copy of the manual? Thanks! -DonC.