Reads sewing machine and V138 thread with size 20 needles

[sarabande]

Before I rush out and buy some V138 thread and size 20 needles, does anyone know if the Reads is tough enough please ?

I have some jacklines to replace so beefy HD polyester or dyneema tape needs to be sewn.

Otherwise is V92 a strong enough thread ?

 

[doug748]

I have found that the heavier the thread the more problems you tend to have so I would not be tempted to try very heavy threads. Sailrite have a good page on this - they mention V138 in passing but, to my mind, it's not suited to domestic portable machines, I have a Reads myself.

Having said that, webbing sews very well, I think you will be ok with V69.

.

 

[AngusMcDoon]

I've not tried a Reads, but I have a Sailrite, and it only just copes with V138 and makes a hash of it too often to be satisfactory. Another problem with that thickness thread is that the bobbin doesn't hold much length and you run out frequently.

 

[sarabande]

Now that is extremely useful, Angus. If your Sailrite can't cope, then I am sure the Reads will also find it difficult if not impossible.

Apart from that, how do you get on with the Sailrite (generally) please

 

[Daverw]

The biggest issue with V138 is you need larger bobbins that are standard with industrial machines, other wise you may get it to sew but you don’t get very far before you run out, even with 26mm bobbins that mine has still a pain. Had 30mm on last machine and far better

 

[savageseadog]

Size 20 needle is too small for V138

 

[Rappey]

I used webbing with V96 to make a mast ladder . I used dark blue thread on white webbing. If it starts to fray it will be easy to see, well that's my theory and it's working so far

 

[AngusMcDoon]

Apart from that, how do you get on with the Sailrite (generally) please

When it works well, it's great. When it goes out of tune, which it does after a while of thumping through tough stuff, it's off to a professional for a service and a fettle. You don't want to carry it too far - it's a lump.