Tacsew T111-155 Needles?

[Gregg From Keystone Sewing]

Suzelle,

I'm only giving the systems, by the book, 'from the factory' specs. Pfaff would never from the factory send any 145, 545, or 1245 with a 135X17 system needle; only either 134-35, or a 190 system, depending on model or subclass.

Now, is this the 1st time I've ever heard of someone using a 135X17 in a Pfaff machine? No, it's not. But I would have to say, if I sent out a Pfaff new or reconditioned with a 135X17 needle, I would have a hard time explaining. It's kind of putting the wrong size tires on a car, but the car will still drive anyway. Doesn't make it right, but if it works for your, that's all that matters. You and many others may have been sewing on a 145 with 135X17 needles for 20 years with no problems, so doing things by the book so to speak is not always important.

That said, if I wanted to get a Pfaff machine back in order, and I was learning to make adjustments by using thier books, you can believe I would want the correct needle system; it's one less variable I have to worry about or compensate for.

[suzelle]

Gregg,

Good info here, it is clear now. Thank you for explaining further. My Pfaff 545 is new to me, so I am learning all about it. I've been confused about why I got both the 190 system needles and the 135x17 needles with my machine. But previous owner passed away, so that answer wasn't given. However, a friend who owns a Pfaff 545 (standard lift) told me that although my machine was the High Lift, it would use the same needles he was using.

To get the right answer I had to call a couple sewing machine shops and was told that the machine could be adjusted for either. Got some feedback on forums too and seems it is true. Thank you for confirming that yourself, it does help.

I wanted to use 135x17 needles, as I am finding the longer needles to deflect and break more often. But as you mentioned, this can cause more "variables" and I have enough to learn and worry about already.

So, now I'm really wondering if this machine is for me. I'll work it out and make a decision to get it running right and use it, or trade it for something that makes more sense for what we need a machine for right now. Right now, we just need to sew the edges of vinyl banners with a machine that won't have an issue sewing them. I'm thinking that perhaps this Pfaff 545-High Lift is way too much machine for the job.

Thanks again!

Suz

[rfkoen]

Finally realized the machine did need 135X17 needles, and the leather needles I thought were that size were actually shorter. Once I got the leather needles in a 135X17 size it is sewing like a champ. Thanks to everyone for the help!