Originally Posted by thepolyparrot
I'll bet the ball points are at least part of the problem. Maybe all of it. If you'll send me a message with your address in it, I'll be glad to send you a pack of Organ sharps - DB x 1's, size 80/12 so that you can try them.
Another problem with the industrial needles is that without a flat side, it's easier to "set" them wrong. I sometimes have to mess around with the position of the needle a bit before I can get it to make a proper loop. Pain in the neck. Good luck and I hope you can get 'er running! :)
The needle curve goes next to the shuttle - groove side out - you get to where you can do it after you break enough needles. Organ does make some good inexpensive needles.