Capable 138 thread sewing machine options?

[DieselTech]

Guys & gals what would be a good sewing machine to buy that is 138 thread capable? 

I was looking at the Artisan 797 or a Cowboy 797, maybe a weaver 303, or maybe the Sailite leatherwork machine. 

What sewing machine would be good for 138 thread & sewing wallets, card holders & other flat work? 

I'm looking for a smaller machine to compliment my Cobra Class 4 I'll be getting in March. 

Are there any cheaper sewing machine alternatives to the machines I mentioned above? 

Thanks any & all help greatly appreciated. 

[DieselTech]

Forgot to throw in the Consew 206 RB-5, Maybe this machine might fit the bill as well. 

[CowboyBob]

The 206 would be the best.

[DieselTech]

13 minutes ago, CowboyBob said:

The 206 would be the best.

That's the 1 I keep leaning towards. Is 138 thread size max thread size on a Consew 206 RB-5? 

Thanks for your input & knowledge.

[kgg]

1 hour ago, DieselTech said:

I was looking at the Artisan 797 or a Cowboy 797, maybe a weaver 303, or maybe the Sailite leatherwork machine. 

The Artisan 797, Cowboy 797, Weaver 303 appear to be very similar / clone of the Juki 1181N. The Sailrite Leatherworker is just a portable walking foot Sailrite LS painted green thrown into a small table with a very good servo motor. It is rated for 1/4 " thick (maybe) with V92 thread in a class 15 bobbin (very small). Depending what you want to sew and the thickness they maybe OK but I would consider all of them really better for fabric applications.

As has been suggested a Consew 206RB-5 would be a far better choice amongst the clones.

kgg

[Wizcrafts]

I sewed professionally on a Consew 206RB, making ballistic material blackout window blinds for schools. The machine takes a large M style bobbin and has no problem sewing with #138 thread. I also used  Nomex thread in that machine to repair some firefighter turnout gear. I normally kept it threaded with #69 bonded nylon for the thin blinds. But, it didn't hiccup with #138..

[DieselTech]

6 hours ago, Wizcrafts said:

I sewed professionally on a Consew 206RB, making ballistic material blackout window blinds for schools. The machine takes a large M style bobbin and has no problem sewing with #138 thread. I also used  Nomex thread in that machine to repair some firefighter turnout gear. I normally kept it threaded with #69 bonded nylon for the thin blinds. But, it didn't hiccup with #138..

 

6 hours ago, kgg said:

The Artisan 797, Cowboy 797, Weaver 303 appear to be very similar / clone of the Juki 1181N. The Sailrite Leatherworker is just a portable walking foot Sailrite LS painted green thrown into a small table with a very good servo motor. It is rated for 1/4 " thick (maybe) with V92 thread in a class 15 bobbin (very small). Depending what you want to sew and the thickness they maybe OK but I would consider all of them really better for fabric applications.

As has been suggested a Consew 206RB-5 would be a far better choice amongst the clones.

kgg

Thanks everyone. I appreciate your time and knowledge. It looks like a Consew 206 RB-5 will be my next major purchase. 

Thanks everyone. 

[ljk]

My 206rb is well worn and will sew 207.  I've had two dealers in the past have asked me to repair new 206rb5 because of thread jams.  Tight clearances.  I have never replaced a hook on 206rb's for almost 50 years.   Used may be good.

My as new 280l will sew 138 never tried 207 on that machine.

[DieselTech]

1 hour ago, ljk said:

My 206rb is well worn and will sew 207.  I've had two dealers in the past have asked me to repair new 206rb5 because of thread jams.  Tight clearances.  I have never replaced a hook on 206rb's for almost 50 years.   Used may be good.

My as new 280l will sew 138 never tried 207 on that machine.

I was wondering if the 206rb-5 would handle 207 thread. Basically if it's got some wear the 206rb might sew with a 207 thread is what you are saying. 

Thanks. I appreciate your input. 

[ljk]

On 206 rb5 I have tried valve grinding compound.  I have tried moving hook closer to needle and moving needle up and down helps some.  I bought a new 206 rb5 20 years ago no problem.  Next try Dremel buffing wheels worked great on clearing and buffing CLSP (chinese shoe patcher) hook, shuttle carrier. and shuttle.  These parts are heat treated but not buffed.

Adjusting  the needle positioner might be also needed