Hi, JessH,
I have read posts about your machine and search for the correct needles. Interestingly, I am trying to do much the same as you and have a similar, but not identical ancient walking foot singer industrial machine (31K47) that also takes 16x63 16x113 needles, and I am curious as to if you resolved your problem getting the appropriate leather point needles for your machine. I also saw your note on slowing the machine down. I did this by changing the motor to a servo motor. Since then I have used the machine to make several under-bonnet blankets for classic cars.