Need Help! Can't Solve Cowboy Stitching Issue...

[NoPleather]

Well Tinker, I have heard nothing back from Bob, even asked for a local contact with no luck hoping I could get some counsel.

I do recall Bob mentioning he had picked-up some bad thread and just maybe I bought it. I can state that when I changed the thread the problem has disappeared. The problem is it's a funky color. I changed it out to see if it would make a difference. Apparently the thread is getting all spindled and tangled too. Using this other thread has at least eliminated the problem. So, if you have any suggestion for a thread supplier, please pass along. I'm still having the Asian Contingency out to the house for grins.

There are some pretty nice videos on youboob for an identical machine, but different name that runs through a step-by-step bobbin cleaning, adjustment etc operation that was easy to follow. My machine was spotless, screws appeared to be in order etc.

[Red Cent]

I seem to have had the same problem some time back. Dirt Clod suggested I go to polyester and use 277/207 on the top/bottom. Solved the problem. I have a Cobra 4 and I can tell you it ain't threaded as suggested from the factory. The CB4500 is the same machine as the Cobra 4. My C4 does not have the post on top to wind the thread. Steve said they decided they didn't need it. I have said it before; there are 937 ways to thread these machines correctly.

The statement that the path of the thread should be inspected is a wise one. Wiz preaches that one.

I had a spindle of thread that would catch as it unwound. It would cause a skipped stitch. I could not detect the hang up when it happened. I could see the skipped stitch as it occurred. One time I happened to see the string jerk out of the corner of my eye. Repositioned the spindle and guess what-it worked. Steve and Bob know a whole bunch. But they have learned by experience also. Stuff happens.

Good luck.

[NoPleather]

Yes, that is the other machine. I have counted no less than 5 ways to thread, and I chuckle until my machine goes wonky on me.

Interesting idea; 277/207. Hell, I'll try anything a this point. My white thread is fraying and spindling and even busted a needle off by throwing off the rithym of the needle speering the tip off into my thumb. I pulled it out with little fan-fare other than a burning pain. Never forget how dangerous these machines can be and wear eye protection--I always do.

Any suggestions as to where I can get some good thread?

[NoPleather]

Sewing machine repair guy stopped by on his way to a client's house, and took a quick look at my machine and immediately stated the thread was of very poor quality; inconsistent and fraying (white), the black was far too stiff but should sew better than the white. He suggested throwing them both away and getting better thread before trying to make any adjustments to the machine. He plans to drop by on Friday to work the mechanics out with better thread. Any attempt at making any lasting adjustments with poor thread is a waste of time, in his opinion. Interestingly, the white thread looks better (when it works) than the black thread. But I've had problems with both. I'll update all on Friday or Saturday before rendering a final diagnosis.

[YinTx]

One of my machines appears to be doing a very similar thing, and I'd been beating my head against a brick wall trying to iron it out before I finally gave up many months back. So, I have been following this conversation diligently hoping that I could get a nugget to solve the issue. Please keep us up to date with the details and your solution, I really appreciate you putting the effort into sharing with us.

YinTx

[silverbullet]

It almost to me looks like the thread is thinner where it's pulling thru, which it could be a tension issue , ck the lubrication in the machine too. If something's not moving smooth it could cause problems. Just my thoughts

[NoPleather]

Update: The Asian group ended up going to Vietnam for the week so I missed them.

However, Bob gave me the name of a local gentleman, Alexander, in the Dallas/Fort Worth area that took a look at the machine for me and spent a good amount of time working on it, and changing the routing of the thread and sanding the foot where the thread goes through. But in the end, he suggested I throw the thread away and left me a new spool. My thread had fuzzy areas on ocassion and you can't stop during a project and solve it. Needless to say, I am extremely grateful to Bob and Alexander.

These machines might be made of steel and weigh a ton, but they are VERY sensitive. The threading of the machine is completely different than anything I have seen, and the thread is a very nice smooth consistency. While Alexader stitched just about every thickness you can imagine, I have not had time to put the machine through its paces yet. But Alexander's work was top-notch. In fact, that guy is a scientist when it comes to these machines. Shout out to Alexander in Dallas. Hell of a guy. Thank you.

I'll post back shortly with comments and pictures.

[l2bravo]

Nopleather, yes you can mix smaller thread sizes on the bobbin. The other day I got a bunch of new thread in. Stupid me, I ordered 346, but forgot 277 in the same color, but did get 205. I run a Cowboy 3200. So I ran 205/346, on a 15-18 oz. oil tanned bag. It laid beautifully, and knots were perfect.

Glad to hear you narrowed your problem.

[Darren Brosowski]

It is amazing how much the thread can influence a machine.

[J Hayes]

I had problems with the thread dropping off the spool and snagging on the base of the holder, read somewhere here to put a ladies nylon stocking on the spool to solve it