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Recently I responded to a post: Singer 16-88 Sewing Machine Started by SueGy, Feb 11 2015 02:53 PM At the time, I had just taken possession, by way of donation, the above machine make and model. I was attempting to glean information regarding this machine when I found the above post. I discovered that there were perhaps four posts on this forum that made some mention of the machine. I feel that the Singer 16 88 machine deserves a bit more exposure then it has at present. The machine that I have had the pleasure of resurrecting, was born in 1910. It's last owner/user had a sail boat business, and of course used the machine in that capacity. Upon receiving it, I found that it needed a new check spring. The needle plate, and hook had needle marks that prevented thread from passing over the bobbin. In addition the needle to hook timing was improperly set. These problems were easily remedied, and with a new needle 160x23, threaded with #138 thread recommended for this machine by Bob Kovar. I also disassembled the clutch for cleaning. It is mated to a two speed reduction pulley. The clutch is composed of rubber friction disk which mates to a very coarse metal disk to engage the motor output to the machine. The sewing table is manufactured by Beswick mfg. circa 1900. After replacing belts, wiring, and general cleanup on the table, I removed all the machine parts that I could, and placed them in a Sonic cleaner to get rid of the 105 year fabric and oil build up. The only components that worked perfectly were the bobbin winding assembly. I repainted this and also the bed of the Singer 16-88. I would also like to say that putting this machine back into service was very simple. This machine is very easy to work on because of it's design. The average domestic machine is by far more complex. The Singer Class 16 uses a Class 15 (oscillating) Japanese hook, bobbin case, and bobbin. These parts are available everywhere on the planet. Bob Kovar of (Toledo Industrial Sewing Machine) informed me that this machine will sew approx. 20 oz leather. I believe his estimate to be pretty close. The motor mounted onto the Beswick table is of the same vintage, and could use an upgrade. The antique Adams alternating current motor labors at 1/4" thickness of veg tan. If and when I do this upgrade, I will be replacing the drive system with a servo motor. Any suggestions for the servo for this table configuration would be appreciated. After reassembly and adjusting, I was able to successfully sew together two pieces of 7-8 oz. leather as seen in the pics. According to the Singer manual, this machine is capable of 1400 Stitches per Minute in it's present configuration, which is perfect for canvas and sail cloth. My next boat cover will be a breeze. Thanks to Bob Kovar for supplying a check spring, thread, needles, and belts, I am able to enjoy this wonderful pastime without having to stitch everything by hand. I love the look of saddle stitching and the size of the thread, but the punishment on my old hands is the motivation for now using a machine. As you can see in the pictures, the machine stitches are consistent and by my measurement, adjustable from 6-10 SPI. I prefer 6 SPI for most of my leather projects. In addition, I don't seem to have a problem with the presser feet marking the leather. The effect is barely visible on the top stitch. I haven't made any belts with this machine, but it's perfect for this leather thickness for a belt or dog collar. It moves quickly, but with a little practice, and short bursts, it's something that can be managed with the clutch motor setup. I highly recommend this old work horse. If you have any questions regarding the repair of this machine and associated components, perhaps I can answer some of them for you.