Don't know what to do-Help
 

So, here's my dilemma. I recently purchased a 15-91 which was in almost perfect shape in a cabinet. I took it to a sewing 'mechanic' to give it the once over, including 'lube and oil'. He replaced the old bobbin case stating it was worn and wasn't getting good tension. Once I got it home I had to adjust the upper thread tension slightly. I was able to piece a small quilt but it became apparent there were hidden issues when I began free-motion quilting. At times the upper thread would get caught around the bobbin case. I've taken it back 3 times to have it adjusted or to see if the experts could figure out the problem. They checked for burrs and couldn't find any. The final thing they did was to replace the tension spring. What is really puzzling me, it doesn't seem to happen on a consistent basis. I've changed the thread, needle, put in a larger needle, used different bobbins, threaded, rethreaded, adjusted the thread and bobbin tension. It seems to happen when stitching for slightly longer than piecing blocks and not only when free-motion quilting. I have my fingers crossed hoping someone here has a idea what it could be.

Maybe the guy put in the wrong bobbin case, If there were no issues before I think I would ask for the original case back, then see if that is the problem. someone created some work for themselves, I think.

I'm in the Sacramento area. If you are close by I'd be happy to check it out for you.

Cathy

I hope you find out what the problem is. They are just the best machines, I have two of them and I love them both.

I really like this one. If I can't get it solved I will certainly look to purchase another one. The stitching is good and I really like free-motion quilting with it. I have a fancy machine but I prefer the 15-91 especially for all aspects of quilting. What's really funny, when I go back to the fancy one I'm always reaching for the presser foot lifter arm and my scissors to cut the thread. Of course I don't have the arm as the foot raises and lowers automatically and I have a thread cutter button.

Helives, you need to go see Cathy, Mizkaki, she is in Orangevale. Cathy is the one who hosts our TOGA's here. She is very knowledgeable about all vintage machines. I would not take your 15 back to the shop that has been looking at it - it sounds to me like they are just taking stabs in the dark hoping they get it fixed. I have a 15-88 treadle that I love. Those 15's are engineered perfectly. You shouldn't be having so many problems unless something is wrong with the machine. I'd get some new or a bunch of old class 15 bobbins. You say the shop threw out the old bobbin case and put in a new bobbin case? I'd try a different bobbin case - maybe, that new bobbin case is not completely round. Some of the 'new' bobbin cases are really cheap and not good cases. There are better quality bobbin cases. Also, try a new bobbin. Class 15 bobbins are very common and easy to find. It sounds like a bobbin issue, or the case is not round. You have to be careful when buying a new bobbin case, the really cheap ones are not the way to go. I found that out when getting a new bobbin case for a vintage Pfaff - the bobbin sticking at times suggests a bobbin issue or a bad bobbin case. Again, get some new class 15 bobbins and try that first. Cathy will have a bobbin case you could also try to see if infact it is the new bobbin case you have that is causing the problems. She is extremely reasonable and will usually look at your machine right there with you!

Nancy

I have order a new bobbin case from Sew-Classic so hopefully it is or will be in good one. I was using a variety of the older bobbins that came with the machine. I will purchase new plastic bobbins today at my local big box store. I appreciate you recommendation about taking it to Cathy. Once I change out the case and bobbin I'll see if making the trip to Sac.

heliveswwjd,

Skip the plastic bobbins at the box store and order some correct metal Class 15 bobbins from Sew-Classic. The 15-91 was designed for metal bobbins. Good ones like S-C sells work beautifully. The metal and / or plastic ones from the box stores are hit or miss and don't always work properly.

Joe

Yup, what Joe said about the plastic bobbins in a vintage machine...

Sorry but I can't help but wonder if the repairman wasn't sure how to do timing. He tried what he thought was a short cut, changing out the bobbin case and charging you for it. He can also get good $$ for the original bobbin case as it is "vintage". I'm not sure he is really reliable. Unless you have worked with him before and know him to be honest and trustworthy, I would take it to Cathy as Bojangles suggested. And yes what Joe said about plastic bobbins holds true. 15-91's were made before the plastic era began to boom. Mine skips like crazy with a plastic bobbin-- ask me how I know!!