just a bit spendy aren't they?

No kidding. Prices like these make sewing with these old machines an expensive proposition.

Joe

I think my 319W has been altered because I removed the needle for the first time and it compares to a 15X1 exactly. Also, it looks like the 15X1 that is in Cathy's post above dated 05/04/2013.

I put in a fresh 15X1 today and sewed a few blocks for the next TOGA since I have put this machine into a treadle base. It is sewing fine. There are no marks on the bobbin case. The decorative stitches worked great when I tested them out when I first got my machine.

My question is: Should I get this machine re-timed so that it uses the intended 206X13 needles or continue to enjoy it using the standard and plentiful 15X1's?

(PS: THANKS Cathy! I did a Google looking for "difference between 15X1 and 206X13 and this post came up with your pictures which is EXACTLY what I was looking for!)

If it works...

It ain't broke, so don't fix it. In reality the eye of the 206x13 and the 15x1 is in the same place. The 206x13s are shorter from the eye to the point.

Jeo

My experience has been that the stitch quality of altered machines is extremely poor but recently I've heard of modifying the bobbin case so that a 15x1 needle doesn't hit.
I wouldn't use one that's been had the hook timing altered because of the rubbish stitches. Instead, time it properly and get the bobbin case modified (or buy a modified one) so that 15x1 needles doesn't have a catastrophic collision.

If your stitches are ok chances are someone has modified the bobbin case already. The one I tried was just really bad. Not on top but underneath. Usual tension issues: Loose underneath.

A bit of a revival of the thread, but I too use DBx1 needles in several 306Ks and have never had a problem. I find Organ works great, and they have a complete range. Most importantly, the DBx1s sew a much better stitch than a 15x1

I have several 206, 306, and 319 machines. Love them except for the fact that the needle plate on them are large
and the bobbins are hard to get at. I only use 206x13 needles. Don't like altering the machines. The other needles
could work at low speeds but hit at high speeds. One hit and you have a dull needle at best.

If I need 16 and 18 needles I just use a different type of machine. Like a 15-91. That is the beauty of having a large
collection.

You can't twist words around like that an get away with it ;- ) The zigzaggers for 15s are terrible, why bother with a 306 at all if it's for straight stitch. The 15s were made to take up to size #21, even #22 needles, Singer still made them at the time. They are lovely machines, but not for zigzag. The 130 might be a better machine, it takes 15x1 needles, so Bernina 117. The old Elna Supermatics take large size needles too, regular 15x1. Unless there is a way bout the needle for the 306 and 319 they will always be a bit cumbersome.