Hand wheel swap Adler sewing machine

[Uwe]

In my book the proper way to solve this issue would be installing a servo motor with needle position sensor. You may never have to touch the hand wheel again.

 

Aside from that option, the hand wheel on this DA 669 is designed a little different than standard balance wheels on many vintage machine. The  hand wheel is separate from the pulley and it’s just a piece of plastic that’s attached to the pulley via the three screws you see. 

 

You can probably make your own, larger version with simple tools like a reciprocating saw and a hand drill. Or ask a friend who has wood lathe skills or a 3D printer, or something along those lines. 

A plain round piece of wood with a hole in the middle and three mounting holes would probably work just fine. Use longer screws to attach it if need be. 

 

Edited September 1, 2023 by Uwe

[Uwe]

As for hand knobs I really like the one I used to replace the missing one on my Adler 30. It works great, looks kinda pretty and was easy to adapt for my installation. I got mine on Amazon for $15 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07P6ZRVY2)

[shoepatcher]

if you install a needle positioner, you will need to order a plug from DA to mount the synchronizer on.  I have the part # if you need it.

glenn

[Historicalbeltworks]

Needle position will probably work. Thanks guys. I am probably going to sell the 669, and just go to a  cobra class 4P.  I’m really overworking the 669 anyway it can handle 10-12oz fine, but I’m really pushing it if I get to like 16.  It seems like over the last couple of years. I’ve been using thicker and thicker material, so I really need to upgrade my machinery. But in the meantime, since that’s not gonna happen tomorrow, I’ll work on the needle positioning for the machine. I really appreciate all the feedback and help.

[shoepatcher]

You will not have any trouble selling the 669.  The demand is high for that machine especially used.

Glenn