Thread Tension And Stirrup Plate

[MadMorbius]

Hey all, on to the next chapter of the "Rob sets up his expensive machine" saga. I just installed the stirrup plate for the Techsew 5100, and I can't seem to get the tension set right. No matter how much I tighten the top tension, I still have loops on the bottom. I dread adjusting the bobbin tension but am I correct in assuming the next step here is to loosen it up?

I'm sort of concerned at the amount of adjustment required to dial this in...and hoping I'll be able to use it for multiple purposes once I get i set up and not have to switch the plates out too frequently (feed dog removal, bobbin and thread adjustments....ugh).

Thanks - Rob

Edited November 23, 2013 by MadMorbius

[Geneva]

If you still have loops after tightening the top as far as it will go you need to tighten the bottom tension not loosen it. Tighten the shuttle spring tension 1/4 to 1/2 turn and check stitching for loops.

[CowboyBob]

When you have a problem like this,you might want to double check your needle threading before you start in adjusting alot.Once in a while I've had people forgoet to go around the 2nd tension 1 & 1/2x & that will do it.Or the thread migt of jumped out of the top tension.

[MadMorbius]

I'll check but I believe it's threaded properly. The only reason I made any adjustments is due to the installation of the stirrup plate.

[Wizcrafts]

The stirrup late raises the point of the the work, but not exactly in a linear fashion. The real difference in the thickness of the plate itself. If the original plate is 3/32" and the stirrup is 5/32", loosen the bobbin tension, or tighten the overall top tension to raise the knots. OR, increase the needle by one size. A bigger hole allows the knots to float higher.

[MadMorbius]

The bottom thread is basically straight along the bottom of the work, not tucked up into the work at all. I have one response that suggest tightening bobin tension, another that suggests loosening. Looks like either way I'm mucking with it. Will report back.

[Wizcrafts]

Would you please post a close up photo of the thread on the bottom, with the stirrup plate installed?

Additionally, please post a photo showing how you have threaded the top thread. Take it head on, from the left side of the machine, where the disks can be seen.

Also, state the thread sizes and needle size.

[MadMorbius]

Hi Wiz, thanks. I'm using 207 thread with a 180 needle I think, I can't remember for sure but will verify shortly (once I can find my magnifying glass). I don't have anything smaller or bigger in the color I'm working with but if required I can fill a bobbin with 138 with another color to test the smaller thread on the bottom option.

Pics will be up shortly. Very much appreciate your assistance.

[Wizcrafts]

Using #138 in the bobbin would confirm or deny the need for a larger needle, depending on the outcome. If #138 bottom thread gets properly pulled into the holes, you needed to move up 1 needle size.

Note: this only applies to other leather that has the same density on the bottom. If you change to a softer bottom layer, the existing needle may suffice.

FYI: I usually use a #180/24 needle with 207/207, on my CB4500. I sometimes even go down to a #23 if the work is only 7-8 ounces thick and bridle leather soft.

I use my stirrup and holster plates on a regular basis and only have to either loosen the bobbin, or tighten the top tension to compensate.

[MadMorbius]

HI Wiz, hoping these photos are sufficient.

Here's the view from the right side of the machine:

Here's the back, looking at the tension disks:

Here's the underside of a piece of 10oz leather I use to test with:

I confirmed the needle size is 180.

EDIT - FYI noticed the thread was off the side tension disk when I took this shot...fixed that and testing now.

Edited November 24, 2013 by MadMorbius