Needles and bobbins for Singer 51w28

[Lostranger]

I bought this old post bed machine several months ago, and I’m ready to make it useful. Thought I saw a digital manual for it on this site, but I can’t find it now.

i need to know what needles and bobbins to buy. I’m building a new tabletop for a K-leg frame and using a brushless, servo motor. Also planning to install a speed reducer, but I’m finding opinions the reducer is not necessary with a brushless servo. I’d love to know what you think.

This machine will play a prominent role in our shoe repair business. I’m making a few shoes and boots for immediate family. I’m looking forward to having a functional post bed machine.

Any help is greatly appreciated.

James in NC

[FDC]

Hi James,

We are on a similar adventure as I'm almost finished restoring a 51W56 Singer post bed! The machine has been torn down, repainted and put back together and the table and stand are made. I am going with a servo motor as well. This machine handles DB x 1 needles which go up to 110/18 and have a 1.63 mm shank. I have machined a custom needle bar for my machine that will take 135 system needles and get me up to 125/20 using a 2.00 mm shank. I too want to use this machine to make my own footwear!

Singer 51W56 Parts Manual Condensed.pdf 51W Manual.pdf

[dikman]

I can't help with the needles but regarding a speed reducer it all depends how slow you want to sew. Most of the digital servos aren't slow enough for many of us, plus they lose a bit of torque when you use them at their slowest speed. I have servos on my machines and I've fitted home-made reducers as well (I like the control it gives me to reduce the chance of an errant stitch/needle hole!).

[Constabulary]

There is an earlier type 51w based on Wheeler & Wilson and a later type 51w and the two types are using different needle bars and are mechanically different too. So it depends on what you have. I assume you have the earlier type 51w.

This thread my help:

https://leatherworker.net/forum/topic/96574-singer-51w56-needle-bar-conversion/

Some years ago I have restored an early type 51w and converted its needle bar and I still have the machine.

https://leatherworker.net/forum/topic/86292-singer-51w-sv-2-post-bed-machine-restoration/

 

Edited June 2 by Constabulary

[Lostranger]

I appreciate all the great information. I believe this machine is the earlier version. I will try to get photos up today.

i have a machinist friend who could make the needle bar conversion. Perhaps that would be a good idea. 

I’ve decided to install a speed reducer. I’m starting the project by making a butcher block top for an old k-leg table that I have. I bought this stitcher as head only.

[Lostranger]

On 5/30/2025 at 6:11 PM, Lostranger said:

Can anyone provide info that might help my machinist make a new needle bar?

[Constabulary]

1 hour ago, Lostranger said:

Can anyone provide info that might help my machinist make a new needle bar?

Have you read the above linked threads? You do not necessarily have to machine needle bars.

If you have the 2nd type 51w (you have not posted pictures yet - I´m not sure if there was a 28 subclass in the early and late 51w model line) the NB diameter is 6.35mm / 1/4" so you can use a Singer 111w needle bar (for triple feed machines) and shorten it as needed and you can use 135x17 or 135x17 needles. 111w NB just cost a few bucks - sample:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/162129813710

If you have the 1st type 51w (the one I have - see above thread I have linked) you can use a 111w needle feed NB (Singer # 240020) which has ~8.74mm diameter.  But then you have to alter the lower bushing (add a longer one) or add a bushing at the top (that what I did).

This may help you or not. Just meant as alternatives to a custom made needle bar. 😉

 

BTW:

This is so far the closest manual for the 1st 51w I could find (see attachment)

The 2nd type manual is already linked above.

This is the bobbin for your machine if it still has the OEM hook

https://www.ebay.com/itm/162656003877

If the needle bar "challenge" is not what you want then your machine ex factory is using needle system 128x2 / 128x3 (short needle with thin shaft)

sample:

https://www.universalsewing.com/sewing-needles?needle-system=128x20

 

 

Singer 51w100 and 52w100 - instructions for using and adjusting(1).pdf

Edited June 9 by Constabulary

[Lostranger]

Love this forum. Thanks, Constanulary. I ordered one of those needle bars. It may be the trick. I have a couple of 111w based machines, and I stock a variety of 135 needles.

I’m confident that my machine is the older model. Not had time to drag it out for photos. I’m busy fixing shoes this morning.

Thanks for all the help.

James the Cobbler