Aykut

Thanks a million Bob!..that's exactly what i needed.All the best.

Thanks Wiz for the reply...will try what you suggested now..so the positioning of the main rod that's screwed under the table is ok?..i was thinking maybe i attached it too far right from the roller..i tried couple of different ways but couldn't get the presser feet go up at all with the knee lift,it's getting so frustrating,i had a walking foot machine before but not used to this style of knee lift..is there any chance any manual out there with a proper image for this type of knee lift mechanism or even a close up image? I just want to make this right..getting the highest lift from the machine is very important for the type of job that i'll be doing.Once again thanks for your help.

Hi,just got a new Highlead 618, set up the table and motor but can't figure out the knee lifter installation,..manual does not explain much,couldn't find any info/pictures online how to properly set up a knee lift mechanism for these type of machines..been trying for couple of hours with no luck..i added some pictures,not sure if i attached it too far from the upper roller shaft or the curved pin is in a wrong position/angle,just seems too complicated for someone new to these machines without any guides.. if there's anyone with a similar set up i would appreciate a close up picture that shows it clearly or any info would be great so i can see exactly how to do this properly..I know the oil pan has to be installed and the curved pin will stick out from the rectangular opening but i took out to when trying..Thank you

Thanks again...

Ian Thanks for the reply...I saw the pants you made one of your early topics...they look awesome!...what kind of leather and thread did you use for those?..Are there any sub $400-500 machines you could recommend new or vintage...Thanks man!

Looks great!

Hi...I've been reading the forums for a while and need some advice on how to make my own leather jackets,vests,pants, etc.. Here's the story: I collect and sell vintage clothing(mostly vintage leather jackets,pants,boots,belts) I'm also a musician and love the 60s - 70s era rock music which is very related to what i wanna do...it's been a while i've been thinking about making my own 70s inspired jackets and pants...One of my biggest influence is East West Musical instruments company from San Francisco...they are known for making the best rocker jackets from the 70s with great fit and amazing hand painted ,detailed applique art.About 2 months ago i bought a cheap old Kenmore and started experimenting with my ideas, recently i'm getting ok results( I had no sewing machine experience before)..I'm using thick denim fabric right now..After days of experimantation i made my first jacket and it turned out pretty cool i think with my limited knowledge. My 4 questions are: 1.What would be the best beginner leather sewing machine for me?..From what i've read I need a walking foot machine, right?my budget is about $450-500...I was thinking about getting the Yamata or Feiyue FS288 from Unbeatableprice(about $300) and get the monster wheel from Sailrite( i read about this machine in the forums here)..I need to go as slow as i can for some small applique work on some jackets.. 2.What kind of leather to use?...I do not want to use very light leather..i want the jackets to be somehow heavy but also comfortable... kinda like the old leather motorcycle or flight jackets with the grain surface...What thickness and temper of leather would be good?Buffalo or cowhide? 3.What type of thread and needles?again think of the well made vintage motorcycle jackets. 4.If you know any links or forums that would be good for me to check out about leather clothing. Thank you so much for your time and help. Aykut I added the photo of my denim jacket and some leather cuffs i've made along with an example of the East West jacket(with the skull and blood) i dream of making.