PFAFF 138 - Puzzled by double needle holder and compatible needle systems

[EMI]

On 11/4/2020 at 9:05 AM, EMI said:

So I've ordered some 1738/287/ DBx1 needles to give it a try and see. Their 1.62mm shank might fit properly in the holder's mounting holes. I will revert with the results in due time

Update on the saga of PFAFF's double needle holder needle system.

I've tried a few Groz Beckert DBx1/1738/16x257/287WH and DLx1 (same basic dimensions but with shorter shank) needles but none of them found possible to be clamped in the needle holder. It turned out that their shank diameter (measured at 1.55mm) is too small for the clamping range of this holder.

[EMI]

 

After my unsuccessful attempt to fit DBx1/1738/16x257/287WH needles I’ve tried once more the DBX5-134 needles. 
Their 2mm nominal diameter shank (actual measured diam. of Schmetz needle 1.94mm) is a very tight fit in holder’s holes, impossible to be inserted by hand and feasible only with a pair of pliers, but it worked.
I centered the right needle for single needle sewing. Twin needles may be set up to 6mm apart (i.e. machine’s zig-zag width range). 

Upon fine tuning of hook timing tests in both single and twin needle modes were done with satisfactory results.

[EszterB]

Good morning All!

I know it hasn't been much activity on this thread for a while, but I found it very detailed and interesting topic, especially since I am struggling with my Pfaff 38 and the very same dilemma... I love the pictures too!

 

My 1928 Pfaff 38 came with a single regular domestic flat shank needle clamped in the middle slot. There wasn't any indication on the machine or in the drawer about the correct needles. I found a couple of manuals online in French and German. 

130 needle system is recommended in the manual (can't remember seeing 130b, I'll have to double check it) when in double needle mode, the max needle space is 4.5mm on my machine.

My trouble is, that the needle clamp screws are really worn, and although I found replacement screws that supposed to be the same the new ones doesn't fit.

I was thinking about changing the whole needle clamp unit to a single one from a Pfaff 34... I was wondering if the double clamp from the 138 would fit my 38?

The  needle clamp screws on my machine go in diagonally and not straight, other than that looks pretty much the same.

https://imgur.com/a/YzrfnnB

 

Eszter

[DrmCa]

Would buying a thread gauge and caliper be an option? That way you could find out the thread pattern and look to obtain the correct screws from alternative channels.

[EMI]

On 2/6/2022 at 11:20 AM, EszterB said:

Good morning All!

I know it hasn't been much activity on this thread for a while, but I found it very detailed and interesting topic, especially since I am struggling with my Pfaff 38 and the very same dilemma... I love the pictures too!

 

My 1928 Pfaff 38 came with a single regular domestic flat shank needle clamped in the middle slot. There wasn't any indication on the machine or in the drawer about the correct needles. I found a couple of manuals online in French and German. 

130 needle system is recommended in the manual (can't remember seeing 130b, I'll have to double check it) when in double needle mode, the max needle space is 4.5mm on my machine.

My trouble is, that the needle clamp screws are really worn, and although I found replacement screws that supposed to be the same the new ones doesn't fit.

I was thinking about changing the whole needle clamp unit to a single one from a Pfaff 34... I was wondering if the double clamp from the 138 would fit my 38?

The  needle clamp screws on my machine go in diagonally and not straight, other than that looks pretty much the same.

https://imgur.com/a/YzrfnnB

 

Eszter

It's a lovely machine and the twin needle holder gives you more configuration options than the single one. It doesn't worth the trouble to have it replaced for the sake of a couple worn screws ( especially since there is no guarantee that a second hand replacement part wouldn't have worn screws too).

My advice is to measure with a caliper the external diameter and the length of your screws and get new matching ones.

I've also replaced mine the same way. They were metric with M3 thread and tried different types (with hex socket and torx heads)

[EMI]

Details of the M3 types of screws I found compatible with my machine (I had to file a bit the heads as they were a bit larger in diameter than the holder's recessed hole).

[DrmCa]

They are used on scope rings. Can get them cheap on Aliexpress.

I used to get them locally but the fastener chain instituted $25 min order so they no longer get my business, unfortunately.

[EMI]

Right. I've also got them from Aliexpress for around $2 a bag of 50 pcs. Even the locally available ones are made in china.

Edited February 12, 2022 by EMI

[sewfix]

I am searching for a manual or copy for Pfaff 130 115 B Machine.

Finding both the leatherworker forum posts and especially this thread very useful.  I do want a sewing machine not a decorative object and would prefer to stick to the original needle bar and needle holder, in any case finding a normal Pfaff 130 needle bar as a replacement in 2024 Germany is probably only possible with willingness to tear a working good machine apart. 

Seems the 134 R series needle might be my best bet, probably with further adjustments. but still wondering if any newer information or tips are available.

 

[Constabulary]

Have you checked in this Forum: https://www.naehmaschinentechnik-forum.de/