Need Help Identifying This Machine

[JRodz]

I need help identifying this machine. I was told it was a Singer 11W155, but the pictures I have seen of 11W series do not have the lever in the front. All parts are stamped with "Symanco USA" so I don't think it is a knock off. Any help would be appreciated.

Also, this probably needs to be a seperate post but I would like to hear some imput on whether a speed reducer and servo motor would work well with this machine to get it to where I can use it on small projects. Right now it's got more pick up than my old Chevy truck and it has a built 350. Too difficult to use with the clutch motor since I am not experienced in sewing.

[Wizcrafts]

That is a Singer 111w155 walking foot machine. It is probably 50 to 60 years old. If it is in good working condition (not too much slack, well oiled, no junk in bobbin case, no stripped parts), it should be able to sew up to 5/16" of medium temper leather, or a pair of jeans, or sailcloth. The maximum thread size is typically #138, sewn using a #22 needle. The needle system is 135x17, or 135x16 (leather). Get a servo motor from Raphael Sewing/Techsew, in Montreal, and you'll be good to go. Better yet, take it to them and have them go over it and adjust and oil it for you, replacing any really worn parts. If you take the table with they can install the servo motor for you.

If you want to do all this yourself, you are on your own.

[JRodz]

Thanks Wiz,

I got it from a friend who used it for awnings. I got it for $200 and picked it up directly from the shop where it was serviced, the invoice for the service was $75, so I guess I really only paid $125 for it. All the gears look new with no wear and everything is tight and smooth with no slack or slop. When I spoke to the technician, he said he could probably get me about $450 to $500 for it so I was pretty sure I got a good deal on it. He hooked me up with 4 packs of needles and 20 bobbins too.

I will get a hold of Raphael on the servo motor, but being Southern California the freight may be a bit much. I will probably try Cobra Steve, Artisan, or any others recommended on this forum that are close by. Thanks again for the info.

[bruce johnson]

Jose,

If you are in that area, another source that doesn't get much press is Melanie Machine in Vernon. Pretty much a candy store of machines, and I sure have had good experiences getting advice and a machine from him.

[JRodz]

Thanks Bruce, I'll give them a call.

[Wizcrafts]

Thanks Wiz,

SNIP

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I will get a hold of Raphael on the servo motor, but being Southern California the freight may be a bit much. I will probably try Cobra Steve, Artisan, or any others recommended on this forum that are close by. Thanks again for the info.

My bad! I confused you with someone in Montreal to whom I had just replied a few minutes earlier. There is a really great servo motor available from Toledo Industrial sewing machines (866-362-7397). It is a SewPro 500GR. It has built in 3:1 gear reduction and a 2" output pulley. They cost around $176 shipped and bot in place of the original clutch motor. Order a 2" shorter v-belt with it. I bought one and can't find any fault with it.

[Gregg From Keystone Sewing]

Machine is NOT a 111W155; this model never had a reverse/back tack.

It's a 111W156, quite a rare bird not many people know about, seen here; Singer 111W156

[JRodz]

Thanks Gregg, I new there had to be more to this story since it never matched any pictures of any Singer 111W??? I had ever seen.

[Gregg From Keystone Sewing]

Thanks Gregg, I new there had to be more to this story since it never matched any pictures of any Singer 111W??? I had ever seen.

Nice, glad to help. It's certainly a rare model, not many are even aware this model was even made.