Ford Blitz Restoration/Rebuild

[Private_collector]

After a number of unforeseen delays, I finally had the chance to setup the sewing machine for my canvas work. Not having any operator or maintenance manual to work from, issues were expected. I was not disappointed. The new bar went in and was set up quite quickly, but because the needle went into the bar slightly shallower, it hit on the bobbin thread case. Another slight adjustment to bar height overcome that, and I made them miss each other by less than a 1mm at closest point of movement. That problem fixed! Next issue was the threading path of the, er, thread. Some trial and error here, because i had forgotten my instructions, AND didn't take a photo of the original path of cotton which the previous owner had kindly left in place for me to see. Some time later, I rediscovered how it should go, and took a photo (also made notes).

The thread I had bought was almost impossible to break with my hands, but incorrect upper thread tension adjustments managed to achieve that nicely. Sometimes it didn't break cleanly. In those instances, partial breakage resulted in a strand of thread getting to the canvas, and most of the thread backing up before entering the needle eye. Getting the adjustment correct solved that problem completely. Fortunately I didn't have to mess with bobbin thread tension / setup at all!
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The above photos are my test piece. It is the corner strengthening triangle from a canvas tarpaulin that was given to me by another MLU friend. Thanks Andy! The raggedy hole is where an eyelet used to be. My sewing is sound, but straight lines and presentation still elude me entirely!

Machine still runs too fast for my liking, despite changing motor pulley to smallest available. My clutch control is in embryonic stage, so no help there. When I can afford it, I intend to get a digital motor. Then I can dial the exact speed I want.