Saints Walking Foot Sewing Machine

[nigelmercier]

This is a follow up to my purchase of the Saints Walking Foot Sewing Machine:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/290933989143
http://www.sewing4everyone.com/saintswalkingfoot.htm

This machine looks very much like the Sailrite LSZ-1 Euro and my initial impressions were good, apart from the poor quality wooden base. Further investigation however made me think otherwise. A lot of the issues are shown in this video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVctef6IRlo&list=PL8F30F1F0E629B315&index=17

However, the main issue is the reason I sent it back, and received a full refund today. This is the email exchange:

" ... I plugged it in and pressed the foot pedal. On releasing the foot pedal, the top sprung open, and the spring flew out. I looked inside... THERE ARE LIVE TERMINALS AT 230V INSIDE THIS METAL CASE, AND IT IS NOT EARTHED! IN FACT NONE OF THE MACHINE IS EARTHED! This is clearly not fit to be sold, in fact I think it is illegal to do so. Please arrange collection and a full refund."

"Hi Nigel, Very sorry about this problem, all our Saint's sewing machines are actually earthed but it seems the manufacturer has made an error with this machine. I will get the machine collected from you... If you like I can send a replacement machine, this will be earthed and a part refund for the problem. Or you can have the full refund. Let me know what is best for you, I'm happy to help best I can."

Another problem was highlighted by the foot pedal coming open; the speed control is done via switches (not electronic), and can only run at two speeds, with limited torque at the low speed.

 

[prv]

That's pretty poor.

With my best PBO hat on, I would note that it appears to have an external motor strapped to the back and driving the main wheel by belt, as is quite common in sewing machines. Why they persist in this victorian arrangement I do not know, but it does mean that the entire electrics (with the possible exception of any light) are completely interchangeable without touching the machine itself. A new motor and pedal could be obtained from eBay or a sewing supplier and swapped over pretty easily. Understandable that you don't want to bother with that on a machine bought new, but it's an option for others perhaps.

Pete

 

[Rigger Mortice]

Pity, but the supplier has done the honourable thing.

I take it that you didn't get to try the machine out?

 

[sailorman]

Trading Standards

 

[nigelmercier]

Pity, but the supplier has done the honourable thing.
I take it that you didn't get to try the machine out?

Yes, the seller was very good about it, as you can see above.

Didn't try it for real, but I'm now waiting for my Sailrite LSZ-1 to arrive. I've had a quote to re-upholster the saloon: £3000. I think the machine will pay for itself. All I need to do is decide on a fabric.

I don't want to report them to Trading Standards, as they are now aware of the problem and will get it fixed. The machine itself is probably OK, although the finish of the components could be better.

If anyone has bought one, first of all check it has a 3-core power lead. Then check that the metal parts are earthed, if not, contact the seller - probably best via their web site.

 

[neil_s]

I just checked my old Jones. No - no earth connection! The motor appears to be fully insulated, but there are mains wires passing through the cast iron body to the light.

 

[Blueboatman]

Nigel, it was worth a punt and I am glad you got your test run and money back
I am absolutely delighted with my Sailrite. The zigzag one right?
IMO it is worth getting em to 'load it' with the goodies pack and monster flywheel for handcranking etc. If you are dealing with Solent sewing services, they do great demos, have everything in stock and a very efficient friendly lady on the phone,..the considerable-ish cost will soon be forgotten, like all kit that Just Works.
I have done loads of stuff ( and a few favours). I also bought some really posh scissors from them which are THe Dogs, AND a electric cutter which seals the Sunbrella or sailcloth as you cut it. Go on, you know you want to...

Quite a few stormy days with the radio on and the Sailrite on the saloon table with a cuppa and visitors..One of my better purchases..

Yes, the seller was very good about it, as you can see above.

Didn't try it for real, but I'm now waiting for my Sailrite LSZ-1 to arrive. I've had a quote to re-upholster the saloon: £3000. I think the machine will pay for itself. All I need to do is decide on a fabric.

I don't want to report them to Trading Standards, as they are now aware of the problem and will get it fixed. The machine itself is probably OK, although the finish of the components could be better.

If anyone has bought one, first of all check it has a 3-core power lead. Then check that the metal parts are earthed, if not, contact the seller - probably best via their web site.

 

[nigelmercier]

AND a electric cutter which seals the Sunbrella or sailcloth as you cut it. Go on, you know you want to...

I'm holding off on the hot knife until I'm sure what fabric I'm buying, but yes, I want one.