V-20 Enclosure

[inaforty]

Thanks Destroyer!

I really enjoying doing this type of work. The correct sewing machine and having it set up correctly is half the battle I'm still learning stuff about how to make things easier and short cuts etc. I'm still learning stuff at my day job and I've been doing that job for almost 40 years.... go figure HA!

[Redloon]

What type of sewing machine is that in the picture?

I've been looking at some old Singer upholstery sewing machines on e-bay because I'd like to be able to do my own boat cushions and covers.

[inaforty]

The sewing machine is a custom 18" long arm machine by Sailrite set up with a MC-SCR power system. The 18" under the arm makes working with clear vinyl panels so much easier. There are many people that sell them. You can get cheap china made units or better units made in Japan like this 18" machine.
Reliable is one producer as is Juki and others.

This machine will punch through most anything. Also it will sew a 138 thread and PTFE lifetime thread.
I also have an LTZ Sailrite machine. The Sailrite machine aren't cheap but there isn't any issues with getting it set up to sew regarding timing and thread tension etc.
I have an old Singer sitting in a shed in AZ that my in-laws are holding for me but the shipping and getting it set is $$$.
Maybe someday I'll get it home here on the east coast.

[Slightly_Twisted]

I'm guess you would be a good person to ask. If the zippers on a encloser are starting to break and it's really stiff to zip can they be replaced, and how hard is it?
I know 0 about sewing and process!

[inaforty]

The zippers sure can be replaced. I do it all the time. It's not hard but you need a machine capable of sewing through many layers of fabric. Also you need to mark the start and ending point etc.

[Redloon]

inaforty - thanks for the information on the sewing machine brand.

Sweet Mary! I just went to the Sailrite website and they aren't cheap. $3500 to $5000 for what looks like a comparable model to what you mentioned.

[inaforty]

Yep,
The good machines aren't cheap. You can do a lot of stuff with the smaller machine but it's more work and you will likely get skipped stitches and damage/scratch clear vinyl due to no working space. Some of the bigger panels are just not possible due to limited under arm space on a smaller machine.

The materials aren't cheap either. I just started using life time thread. An 8oz cone of thread (about the size of a good coffee cup) is $129.
The 12oz Stamoid used on many of the bigger sport fishers is $30 a yard!

I stay busy sewing due to the fact that it's not my full time job.
I don't have to charge for all the overhead (heat,building,healthcare,retirement,etc).