Ferdinand #9 and "Classic" Harness Stitcher

[@joealderete2470]

Wow..awsome machine.

[@cs-rj8ru]

I used to have one of these and I liked it. Very robust easy to use machine. No reverse. That's not a big deal most of the time though. Would buy one again if they were ever to be made.

[@king55453]

I need it!!!

[@ybryant]

Greatmachine...how much area these machines?

[@ytcases]

The last price I saw was $6,000 for a new Classis machine in 2013

[@shawbaynes6484]

ymulgrew

[@reneewilkerson6608]

where can I purchase needles for a classic?

[@ytcases]

[e-mail]

[@reubenvargas2824]

casemaker

[@reubenvargas2824]

casemaker

[@rysammy]

One of the features that make a true harness stitch is a posative thread locking system, which this machine does not have. I also worry about needle flex while feeding since there is no needle guide system. The Singer 97-10 has a needle guides top and bottom.

[@cs-rj8ru]

I think a thread brake is a plus, but not really a mark of a harness stitcher. What makes a true harness stitcher is both a hook and awl, allowing for the use of linen. I have a pair of Champion Harness Stitcher heads and one is set up without a thread brake and uses tensioners instead. It's clearly a factory assembled setup and seems to work just fine. (It's not just a takeoff of parts from the narrow throat). I had a classic once and the tensioner was not an issue. It did have lots of needle flex. if you use a 328 needle it really improves this problem. Lack of a needle guide was one of the things I didn't like on the Classic. I broke more needles on the Classic than any other machine, Including my Adler 205-64. (The 205-64 uses 328 needles). I use a Randall Harness Stitcher 3 days a week and ironically I've only broke 2 needles in 20 years. I literally wear out the awls before anything breaks. Wear out as in wearing thin. I resharpen them on a stone from time to time

[@king55453]

I need it!!!