Thread Lubricating Cup for Singer 111w155 . What is it?

[LMP]

Hi all.

I'm new to my Singer 111w155. In reading the manual which is for models 152-155, it describes normal threading for just models 152-154, and then there is a separate page showing the threading for the 155 model, which includes a thread lubricating cup that sits on top of the machine (see attachment). My machine doesn't have it, and from all my searches online, I don't see any other 155s that have it. Just curious, what is it, and does anyone know why the manual describe it as part of the 155 (not optional), yet all the 111w155s I see, don't have it either. Thanks!

[kgg]

1 hour ago, LMP said:

Just curious, what is it, and does anyone know why the manual describe it as part of the 155 (not optional), yet all the 111w155s I see, don't have it either. Thanks!

With today's modern bonded threads overheating of thread isn't as common a problem like it once was. Back in the 1940's the machine used cotton or nylon thread and it wasn't until the mid 1950's bonded polyester was used. Threads that were dry or fiberious or unbonded would overheat, then fray which lead to threads breaking under tension and speed particularly in a factory environment. The pad in the thread pot would lube the thread as it past under the oiled pad. The pad would provide just enough oil to reduce the friction as the thread made it's way to the eye of the needle from the spool of thread. That little bit of oil then reduced friction which reduced heat which reduced thread breaks then in turn gave consistent stitches, reduced down time and a better product. 

kgg

Edited yesterday at 03:15 AM by kgg

[TomE]

I've added a thread lube pot for sewing Biothane on my 441-type machine.  The lubrication helps pull up the knots.  Biothane is PVC coated nylon webbing that generates considerable friction on the needle.  I don't use lube for sewing leather.  Plastic add-on lube pots and thread lube are available from sewing supply stores.

[LMP]

10 hours ago, kgg said:

With today's modern bonded threads overheating of thread isn't as common a problem like it once was. Back in the 1940's the machine used cotton or nylon thread and it wasn't until the mid 1950's bonded polyester was used. Threads that were dry or fiberious or unbonded would overheat, then fray which lead to threads breaking under tension and speed particularly in a factory environment. The pad in the thread pot would lube the thread as it past under the oiled pad. The pad would provide just enough oil to reduce the friction as the thread made it's way to the eye of the needle from the spool of thread. That little bit of oil then reduced friction which reduced heat which reduced thread breaks then in turn gave consistent stitches, reduced down time and a better product. 

kgg

Thank you! That is very helpful. I do have some thread that is 100% cotton. Should I worry using it with this machine? Thanks again. Your response was very informative.

1 hour ago, TomE said:

I've added a thread lube pot for sewing Biothane on my 441-type machine.  The lubrication helps pull up the knots.  Biothane is PVC coated nylon webbing that generates considerable friction on the needle.  I don't use lube for sewing leather.  Plastic add-on lube pots and thread lube are available from sewing supply stores.

Thank you. This is very informative. 

[CowboyBob]

@LMP The cotton thread doesn't have a very long shelf life B4 it starts to weaken & start breaking when sewing,but Yes you can try it & the lube would help as long as it is rotten.