Using A Thread Thicker Than The Machine Is Rated For

[reddevil76]

Ok, suppose a machine is rated for V92. But the factory says it can do V138.

Now, suppose I try to use it with V207 top and bobbin, assuming I managed to fit in a needle that suits this size thread, what would happen?

Worst case scenario, the machine burst into flames?

[CowboyBob]

Be sure to wear a flame retardent suit when trying this!!

No,the larger thread could jam it up.

Bob

[Art]

Realize that machines are rated for a particular production speed like 3000spm (stitches per minute), which is actually slow by some of today's standards. To get these speeds and keep the machines from coming apart, they use the lightest weight materials that will do the job. Now if you add a heavier weight thread, you will have to use heavier tensions to pull the thread up, and the bearings and thread arm aren't designed for it, not at speed anyway.

For our particular passions, where we are sewing slow, there is a little less of a problem, BUT, tension doesn't change much due to speed so you are still wearing the machine.

I guess what I am saying is that it might work fine for slow speed, try it, but eventually, the wear will happen.

When you get a jam, you can hurt the machine with small thread, you WILL hurt the machine with big thread, make sure you have a well operating safety clutch, even then no guarantees.

Art

Ok, suppose a machine is rated for V92. But the factory says it can do V138.

Now, suppose I try to use it with V207 top and bobbin, assuming I managed to fit in a needle that suits this size thread, what would happen?

Worst case scenario, the machine burst into flames?

[reddevil76]

Ah ok, so it will damage the machine.

Thank you all.

[Anne Bonnys Locker]

One of the big problems is that we use bonded nylon thread which is coarse, abrasive and strong. A heavier thread in core spun poly would not do as much damage but would not suit the work.

[Trox]

No flames, but the bigger needle can hit the hook. Check the distance from the needle to the hook. You can adjust the machine to use a bigger needle; setting a bigger distance between the needle and the hook. Example; the machine is adjusted with a Nm 140 needle and the distance should be 0.2 mm. Use that bigger Nm 180 needle instead, and set the distance to 0.2 mm. Adjusting the needle guard if necessary (if it is a vertical hook) (Doing so you will have issues sewing with the smaller needles; thinner needle = bigger distance. It will have trouble picking up the bobbin thread).

You must also check if the hole in the needle plate and feed dog is big Enoch, The needle must have room to bend a bit.

It is smart to have the safety clutch working as mention by Art. Remember to Increase the foot pressure, to keep the material in place. A bigger needle needs more force to penetrate and equal opposite pressure (down force) on the sewing foot.

I do not know your Imperial thread sizes, but going up only one or two sizes, the tension will normally be strong Enoch.

However, you cannot go in high speed.

You will also have issues as small bobbin, holding only two meters of bobbin thread, sewing feet’s with to small needle holes etc.

You just have to try, it sometimes work fine. But do not expect any refund or warranties if you break your new machine.

Trox

Ok, suppose a machine is rated for V92. But the factory says it can do V138.

Now, suppose I try to use it with V207 top and bobbin, assuming I managed to fit in a needle that suits this size thread, what would happen?

Worst case scenario, the machine burst into flames?

[reddevil76]

Thanks all, I asking because Sailrite's Ultrafeed is rated to go up to V92, but their VP Matt Grant says I can still sew with V138.. just wondering what will happen...

Trox, thanks for the detailed reply.

[Trox]

I do not know the Sailrate; I was talking about industrial sewing machines in general. Where you often have the same machine head with different ratings and feeds. A bit overbuilt, made for continuous factory use and lasting a lifetime. I understand the Sailrate is an all-metal construction; however, it is not built for production. I think it was made for repairing sails onboard yachts. Made small and portable, for use when you need it in a yacht.

It is not an industrial sewing machine, in the literal meaning of the word. I would not push my luck with that machine. It looks like they already have taken out all the performance it is good for. It is not like it is a Cadillac 500 Cid engine with only 190 hp, more like a Citroen 2CV triple turbo on steroids. Just my impression of it, I do not know the machine.

Trox

Thanks all, I asking because Sailrite's Ultrafeed is rated to go up to V92, but their VP Matt Grant says I can still sew with V138.. just wondering what will happen...

Trox, thanks for the detailed reply.

[ouchmyfinger]

i almost bought a machine one time that a guy said would handle the thread, lol. people will say anything to sell you i swear....anyways i tried it and there was not enough space for the bobbin loop thread and needle and other thread to come through the hole in the plate. i could barely get the bobbin thread through the hole, that may be an issue as well.