Singer 51W56 needle bar conversion

[Constabulary]

I have used a needle bar of a 111w needle feed machine (see my post from Aug 27).

The 111 series had 2 different needle bars. One for triple feed machines (small diameter) one for needle feed machines (larger diameter).

Reg. the 51w - the early one (the one you and I have) needs the large diameter NB and the later 51w (the one eddo has) needs the small diameter NB.

Let me check if I can figure a bushing you could use.

EDIT:

Singer 111w foot bar bushing should fit the NB but I´m not sure if it is long enough so check with the dealer for measures.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/302295485545

EDIT II:

measure your NB again - mine is ~ 8.74mm

 

Edited September 13, 2021 by Constabulary

[Jholden0]

Thank you, I ordered the bushing after validation that it is correct.  Also, you are correct about the diameter of my needle bar.  Thank you again for your help.  I owe you.

[Btibbett]

I have a 51w56 and the string timing belt is next to impossible to locate a replacement part number 234-003. Does any one know if there is an Equivalent? Or a point in a different direction I have called everyone on google. At this point I’m considering sewing together 2 timing belts from the 306. And see if I can make a strong enough splice. I’m at wits end with this. 

[Constabulary]

Can´t really help but in case you find a neoprene / rubber timing belt with he right width tooth measures and tooth distance from another Singer machine you can try splicing the belt / making one out of two.

LW member @Thomo did this with a 307G2 timing belt which is obsolete too.

Just an idea - check this:

 

 

[whistlingrits]

On 9/10/2021 at 6:34 AM, eddo said:

Thanks all.. For my 51w56 the 111w needle bar arrived yesterday and fitted fine.. Didn't need to trim at all as the excess length fits inside the machine head. A 5 minute changeover. Hope the $11 Chinese bar holds up! Happy to post any pics if requested. 

Hey, did you have to do anything with hook timing and needle clearance? I just acquired a 51W55 machine and would like to modify it to fit other needles besides leather needles and when I asked my local sewing machine shop about it they mentioned that hook timing and needle clearance will come in to account. Did you just swap out the needle bar and it worked?

[Constabulary]

When the needle - hook timing was right at your machine and it worked properly with this setting and when your new needle bar is in you have to adjust the needle bar height. The procedure is mentioned in the manual on Page 14. Does not matter what needle system you are using, the procedure is the same.

 

51W51,W52,W53-Inst.pdf

Edited July 26, 2023 by Constabulary