I'm Going To Scrap My Machine Soon

[venator]

Minimum size for 207 thread it #24 needle

Could well be the issue. However why wasn't in an issue before using the 207 thread?

[Uwe]

Since I have an iPhone 4 and clearly too much time on my hands (or procrastinating things I should be doing instead). I made a little video snippet using my iPhone 4 and recorded a making-of for your entertainment and education, haha. You don't want to hold the phone while you sew. My high-tech setup includes scotch tape dispenser and a AAA battery to adjust the angle of the phone. Touch and hold the part of the screen you want to be in focus until the focus lock and AE lock message appears. Then start recording, then start sewing.

Actually, it would be interesting to see your machine turn without a thread and without the drive belt connected. It should turn by handwheel quite easily and not snag or bind at any time during a full cycle.

It's easy to miss a bind if the motor just powers past it. If you turn by hand it will be very obvious if there is resistance at some point due to parts touching or rubbing.

Making-of how-to video is here: https://youtu.be/twl_V_vlq2Q

iPhone 4 close-up is here: http://youtu.be/S0YaHrA0aqQ

[SARK9]

Hi Uwe-

In the video you posted....the latch opener on that machine looks like it needs adjusting....proving that a video DOES help diagnose this sort of issue!

-DC

[Uwe]

I've seen a few needle/thread charts and they don't always agree. There's a number of factors that determine if a needle/thread combo will work or not. The chart at Toledo Ind. Sewing Machine's website indicates you might be okay with a 207/23 combination: http://www.tolindsewmach.com/thread-chart.html

But if using a 24 needle solves the problem, you're golden!

Alas, I also once had an issue with the hole in the inner sewing presser foot getting too small for a particular needle/thread combo, causing the thread to fray. Changing out the presser foot for one with a slightly bigger hole fixed that problem. Another time I had a brand new presser foot and it had some rough edges at the bottom, again causing the thread to fray and break at times. Smoothing the bottom of the presser foot with very fine sand paper solved that problem.

I'd also recommend pulling the thread loose at the top tension and alternating this with pulling out the material, at the end of a seam. If you inadvertently bend the needle just a little by pulling hard, it may cause trouble. Proper spacing between needle and hook is often about the thickness of one sheet of paper, and any excessive bending of the needle will surely mess that spacing up.

(Almost) Last point is to hold both loose threads firmly for the first few stitches. It makes it less likely that loose thread underneath the material will cause trouble a few stitches into the seam.

Now I'll go and look up what a latch opener is and what adjustment my machine may need, haha.

[texback]

Only thing I can tell you is if you don't use a large enough needle to accommodate the size thread you are using you will have problems.....ie ugly stitches, thread breakage, etc. Just because you can fit a thread thru the eye of the needle doesn't mean it's the right size needle. At least this has been my experience. If you were using a smaller thread before then you have your answer. You might try 138 in the bobbin to see if this fixes the problem or go with a larger needle. Either or both are cheap alternatives compared to getting a tech to check it out. Like Wiz said, I would try to eliminate every simple possibility.

[leatherisfun]

The thing is that those charts were created from the experience of those who came before us and is a good guide to go by. I'm a believer because I had issues with needle/thread combination until I followed it. That isn't to say that there aren't times when you can get away with breaking the rules. However going by the chart is a great way of eliminating one avenue, making it easier to solve the problem at hand.

I have done this, turn the needle the wrong way, not install the foot all the way up the shaft and then I was wondering why . Little things that might not be associated with your issue but something to consider nonetheless.

[venator]

Well I will go buy some larger needles in the next few days, it's a shame that all the sewing stores are open 0900-1800 and I work 0900-1700 and it's at least an hour drive after work so I can't ever get to the damn things. Plus I'm currently working 7 days a week so I can't even make saturdays. Bah so frustrating.

[SARK9]

>>Now I'll go and look up what a latch opener is and what adjustment my machine may need, haha.<<,

Errr... bobbin case opening lever.

Error Level: Brain shorthand.

-DC

[TinkerTailor]

One other thing to do before opening the wAllet is use a dental mirror and flashlight to look for threads and bits of fabric jammed up under there. It's amazing the havoc one inch of thread can create if it's in the wrong place. Look for gunk stick in the tensioners too. Maybe a deep clean is all it needs

[venator]

So I just wanted to thnk everyone for the opinions, suggestions, help, and support, you folks are fantastic.

I picked up some size 24 needles today, non-leather but titanium. The breakage is way way way down. Now the thread breaks maybe every 5th time I reverse. Much better.

Showing the video to their tech/mechanic he thinks it's an issue with the timing on the machine. Thoughts?