rodeoman7 Report post Posted March 26, 2012 Hello, I was wondering if you knew much about a Rex 26-188 sewing machine? I have found one that I can possibly buy and wanted to know how good these machines usually are and how much leather I should be able to sew through. The machine was taken in and had another motor put on and pulley system that slows the machine down and really delivers some great power. Right now the owner has been using a #22 needle with a smaller thread, so I am wondering if this machine will have any problems with a #207 thread. Also, the walking foot on the machine has teeth so I am wondering if there is a smooth foot available for this machine? Just trying to learn a little bit more about the machine before I decide to purchase it. I have seen the machine in person and have attached a picture of the machine. Thanks for your time Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Wizcrafts Report post Posted March 26, 2012 I like that huge flywheel on the back of the machine. Coupled with the speed reducer, it should be able to sew through sole leather. Unless the walking foot mechanism has been modified, the maximum clearance under the foot when sewing is 3/8 inch. You can probably get away with #207 on top and #138 in the bobbin, using a #23 needle. For 207 in the bobbin, try a #24 needle. It all depends on how strong the top tensioner beehive spring is. It's too bad about the teeth on the presser feet. Check with Toledo Industrial Sewing Machines to see if smooth feet even exist for it. I've never seen any. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
CowboyBob Report post Posted March 26, 2012 Hello, If you need smooth feet you'll have to grind the teeth off(I've done this quite a few times for these machines) as you can't buy em. Bob Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rodeoman7 Report post Posted March 26, 2012 I like that huge flywheel on the back of the machine. Coupled with the speed reducer, it should be able to sew through sole leather. Unless the walking foot mechanism has been modified, the maximum clearance under the foot when sewing is 3/8 inch. You can probably get away with #207 on top and #138 in the bobbin, using a #23 needle. For 207 in the bobbin, try a #24 needle. It all depends on how strong the top tensioner beehive spring is. It's too bad about the teeth on the presser feet. Check with Toledo Industrial Sewing Machines to see if smooth feet even exist for it. I've never seen any. Thanks for the insight. How would someone go about modifying the walking foot mechanism? Hello, If you need smooth feet you'll have to grind the teeth off(I've done this quite a few times for these machines) as you can't buy em. Bob Bob, Thanks for the input. I was thinking that was going to be my only option after looking around for sometime last night. Are there any machines that are compatible with this one that may work? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
