Looking At A Union Contract Machine

[Nessmuk1]

Going to look at Union Contract sewing machine, able to an inch of leather.

It is a three phase, 220V powered machine, not worried about that, I can handle a motor swap.

Came from an awning and canvas factory, then to a home where they did harness work.

I have to ask about bobbins, needles, etc. Anyone know anything about this machine to help me decide on it?

Edited January 9, 2015 by Nessmuk1

[Constabulary]

Going to look at Union Contract sewing machine, able to an inch of leather. I have to ask about bobbins, needles, etc. Anyone know anything about this machine to help me decide on it?

You mean this machine can sew 1" thick leather? I´m sure it can´t!

To me it looks like a needle feed machine and I would assume it can sew maybe 1/4" of leather or less.

Seems the entire top thread tension unit is missing. Pretty poor condition - how much do you have to pay for it?

[CowboyBob]

Constabulary is right there is no way it will even come close to sewing 1" thick.The brand is Union Special,it looks like it might be a needlefeed machine,try searching for union special model# 61200,61300,61400,61900,63400,63900 it's one of these models.There should be a plate on the back with the model# on it.It should sew 1/4" ok.

[Nessmuk1]

Thank you both, saved me a couple bills!

[Singermania]

The boys are correct, I have one of these, some people call them saddlestitch machines, can't imagine why... Yes you'd be lucky to get a quarter inch out of it.

I think the person giving you the info is confusing a Union Special with a Union Lockstitch. The US will go 3/4".