Please observe the following when using your Sailrite sewing machine
• Do not operate in conditions where you or the
machine are or may become wet.
• Operate the machine on a rm, level surface
where there is adequate room for safe
operation.
• Observe caution when placing your hands
or other parts of your body or clothing near
any moving parts including but not limited to
the following: the walking foot, the needle,
the drive belt, the balance wheel and any of
its parts.
• Do not run the machine without its covers.
• Do not stop the movement of the balance
wheel with your hands.
• Use caution in tilting the machine backwards
in its table and in lowering it back into the
table.
• Use proper lifting techniques when moving
the machine.
• Do not drop the machine.
• Always use the proper voltage required for
the motor and light.
• Wear protective eyewear when sewing.
• Wear shoes when operating the foot
pedal.
• Provide supervision when allowing others to
use the machine—particularly children and
those who are unfamiliar with the machine’s
operation.
• Do not use around ammable materials.
• Use both hands to feed and guide the
material while the belt and balance wheel
are in motion.
• Maintain a safe distance from the belt and
balance wheel when the machine is in motion.
• The operator’s hand should not be near the
wheel pinch point (where moving parts may
cause harm to the user) except to raise and
lower the needle, and only when the motor is
disengaged.
WARNING: Some products may be fabricated from materials which may contain chemicals
known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
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Page 5
SAILRITE FABRICATOR SET-UP
Our expert Sailrite technicians have checked and adjusted every component of this machine. It has
been sewn off and all accessories have been prepared for easy installation. With this guidebook,
you should be able to maintain and adjust your own machine. Please do not make substantial
adjustments to machine settings unless in consultation with Sailrite.
1
Unpacking the Sailrite Fabricator
To remove the casting from the box, it is best
to have help. While one person holds the box
down on the oor, the other should reach under
the arm of the machine and lift straight up. Set
the machine on a solid surface or oor.
Tip: Place a newspaper or old towel down rst
to absorb any oil and protect the surface.
Inspecting the Machine
Before use, thoroughly inspect the machine. It
will arrive threaded with a fabric sample under
the presser feet. To remove the fabric, untie the
A
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 2
thread from the top of the machine and lift the
presser feet with the hand lever (A). Make sure
the needle is up, out of the fabric and pull the
sample and all thread free from the top of the
machine. Cut the bobbin thread and let it lay
loose. See page 41 for complete steps.
Page 6
Power Stand Assembly
1. Find parts A, B, C and D. Stand both k-legs
upright and bolt the back support bar (E) to
the bottom hole at the back of the table legs
(Figure 2).
2. Find parts F, G and H. Flip the legs
upside-down and place the treadle mount
bar (I) at the back of the forward most slots
(Figure 3). Bolt the treadle mount bar to the bottom surface of each crossbar of the k-legs
(Figure 4).
B
E
I
FRONT
2
3
A
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C
D
4
GFH
Page 7
3. Place the top of the table on the oor with
the laminate surface down. Place on a soft
surface to avoid scratching the tabletop.
Squarely line up the table legs as shown
(Figure 5). Be sure that the legs are facing
the correct direction. Reference the cutout
shape in the tabletop to aid in placement.
4. Use a pencil to mark screw locations for
attaching the K-leg frame to the tabletop
(Figure 6). Use a 5/32" drill bit and drill
about 1/2" into the tabletop. Do not drill
completely through.
5. Bolt the frame to the bottom of the tabletop
using the enclosed hex head lag screws (J),
locking washer (L) and washer (M) to lock at
each position (Figure 7).
J
5
1.5"
0.5"
6
7
KL
M
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 4
Page 8
Installing the Drawer
The drawer mounts to the forward, left,
underside of the table when the stand is upright.
To install the drawer, locate the rough position
(Figure 8) and put the drawer rails and the
drawer in position. The drawer should pull open
from the front of the table (Figure 9) and when
pushed in, it will hit a stop. Secure the rails to the
underside of the table with the included screws
(K) on page 4 (Figure 10).
Tip: Do not over tighten the screws or they will
prevent the drawer from sliding freely.
Drawer Location
FRONT
8
9
FRONT
10
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Page 9
Installing Rubber Foot Pads
Stretch the K-Leg foot pads onto the rectangular
metal feet of the table legs (Figure 11).
Flip the table upright.
If the height needs adjusted, move the bolts up
or down in the leg slots and holes then lock in
place (Figure 12). Be sure to adjust the height
before placing the sewing machine casting in
the tabletop.
Be sure all nuts and bolts are tight.
11
12
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 6
Page 10
Installing the Treadle
The treadle is typically installed near the center
of the treadle mount bar, but it can be set to the
user’s preference anywhere on the bar.
After determining placement and taking note of
desired location of the treadle, ip the table onto
its back side (Figure 13).
The two end pivots (A) t into the sides of the
treadle pedal and are then bolted to the mount
bar with 4 bolts to hold it in position (Figure
13-14).
The rubber pad will be face up and the side with
the bolt holes will be to the back of the table
(away from the machine operator). These holes
will be used to attach the treadle to the motor.
Tip: Install the pivots rst but do not tighten
completely. Then place the treadle in position
between the pivots and tighten bolts. Flip the
table upright and check to make sure the treadle
moves freely after the bolts are tightened.
BEFORE CONTINUING: See “Attaching
a Pulley” and “Installing the Workhorse
Servo Motor” in the Workhorse Servo Motor
Instructions.
13
14
A
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Page 11
Installing the Linkage Bar
Bolt the L-bracket (B) to the holes on the back
of the treadle so that its shorter leg is sticking
out toward the back of the table pointing toward
the Workhorse motor. (Figure 15). The short leg
should be roughly vertical to the motor operation
lever (C).
Bolt the linkage bar (D) to the outer most hole of
the motor operation lever on the Workhorse and
the L-bracket (Figure 16).
By increasing or decreasing the overlap of the
linkage bar, different treadle pedal angles can
be achieved. Use a size 14mm wrench to set
the angle to your preference (Figure 17).
15
B
16
C
D
17
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 8
Page 12
Oil Pan and Machine Installation
Locate the two back corner cushions (A), the
two front corner cushions (B) and the two hinge
cushions with chrome hinges (C).
Take out the cast aluminum oil tray (D) and slide
the four corner cushions onto each respective
corner ange (Figure 18-19).
With the table upright, tilt the tray into the
tabletop cutout so that all four corner cushions
drop down into the ledges. The edge of the oil
tray with the crescent cutout should be facing
the left side of the table, away from the belt slot.
(Figure 19).
A
C
D
B
18
19
AA
BB
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Page 13
Push the machine Support Pin (E) into the hole
in the tabletop nearest the carriage bolts holding
the motor. The t may be tight so just push until
snug (Figure 20).
Insert the tapered end of the knee lift post
connector (F) into the raised hole in the bottom
of the oil tray (G) (Figure 21).
Find the magnet for the oil tray (H) and place it
in the bottom of the oil tray (Figure 21).
Next, take the rubber pads off of the chrome
hinges (C) and place them into their respective
tabletop cavities (I). Insert the two chrome
hinges into the two holes located on the back
side of the sewing machine (J).
With help, lift and lower the sewing machine into
the tabletop so that the chrome hinges t into
the rubber pads (Figure 22).
20
E
21
F
G
H
22
J
I
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 10
Page 14
Check Motor Rotation
The machine’s motor shaft should rotate
counterclockwise when viewed from the motor
shaft end. Plug in the motor, switch the power
on and press down on the foot treadle to conrm
operation now.
If motor rotation is not counterclockwise, please
refer to “Changing Motor Rotation” in the
Workhorse Installation Instructions.
23
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Page 15
Securing the Stitch PRO
Balance Wheel
Remove the Posi-Pin (wrapped in plastic) from
the Posi-Pin Wheel Bushing on the upper shaft
of the sewing machine.
Remove the three screws (A) for the belt cover
installation (Figure 24). Position the C-shaped
belt guard and reinstall the screws making sure
washers are positioned as shims behind the
guard to keep it from being bent out of shape
(Figure 25).
Unscrew the reverse-threaded Posi-Pin Nut
(B). Slide the Stitch PRO Balance Wheel onto
the Posi-Pin Wheel Bushing (C), making sure
it does not interfere with the belt cover. If the
wheel hits the belt cover, reposition the washers
placed under the C-shaped belt guard or move
the bushing out further by loosening the set
screws in the bushing.
Thread the reverse-threaded nut back onto
the bushing and tighten by hand. Rotate the
balance wheel until the hole in the balance
wheel is aligned with one of the four bushing
holes. Push the Posi-Pin (D) through the holes
to lock the balance wheel to the bushing (it will
spring back slightly). Rotation of the balance
wheel will now cause the machine to function
(Figure 26).
24
A
25
C
B
26
D
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 12
Page 16
Belt Adjustment for the
Workhorse Servo Motor
Before installing the drive belt, loosen the hex
head set screw (A) with a 5/32" Allen wrench
to allow the Workhorse Servo Motor to freely
pivot (Figure 27). This will prevent the belt from
stretching or breaking while being installed.
With the machine tilted back, slip the drive
belt over the balance wheel track and guide
it onto the motor pulley then carefully lower
the machine into the cutout while judging belt
tension (Figure 28). If the tension needs to be
adjusted, follow the directions below:
Pivot the motor back to tighten the belt and
forward to loosen it. Proper adjustment of the belt
results in 3/8" of slack when pressed by nger at
its center. Retighten set screw (A). The Linkage
Bar may also need to be readjusted (page 8).
Once installed, the belt should not touch the
table and should be centered on the track of
both the balance wheel and motor pulley. Adjust
the positioning of the motor left and right by
loosening and sliding the bolts within the slots of
the motor bracket.
Once the motor is in the correct position and
all bolts are tightened, remove the belt so the
pulley bracket can be installed.
BEFORE CONTINUING: See “Installing the
Pulley Cover” in the Workhorse instructions.
27
A
28
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Page 17
Attaching the Balance
Wheel Belt Cover
Locate the remaining portion of the belt cover
(Figure 29). It has a keyway (B) that locks onto
post (C) of the C-shaped belt guard that was
secured to the machine earlier (Figure 30).
Connect the covers and remove the remaining
screw in the machine casting (D) which is below
the Stitch PRO Balance Wheel. Reinstall this
screw through the slot at the bottom of the belt
cover (Figure 31). Position the screw in the slot
to provide proper belt clearance (typically all the
way to the right end of the slot) (E).
29
B
E
30
C
31
D
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 14
Page 18
Attaching the Bobbin Winder
Now screw the bobbin winder to the tabletop. The
large wheel of the winder should be about 1/8"
forward of the belt (no contact) (Figure 32) and
in line with the belt. The long edge of the bobbin
winder should be parallel to the belt slot in the
table (Figure 33). Mark the location in each of
the slots where the screws will be positioned.
Remove the bobbin winder and using a 5/32"
drill bit, create pilot holes about 3/8" deep. Place
the bobbin winder so the slots are positioned
over the pilot holes. Mount the bobbin winder to
the tabletop with the two screws (A) positioned
in the bobbin winder slots.
Note: The bobbin winder should be disengaged
before installation.
Pressing the thumb pad (B) will move the wheel
into the belt in order to wind bobbins. The
thumb pad is on a hinged bracket so that when
thread has lled the bobbin, the mechanism will
disengage the wheel from the belt.
32
33
A
34
B
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Page 19
Mounting the Flex20 LED Light:
To attach the Flex20 LED light, place the light in
your desired location on the machine and plug it
into a wall socket (Figure 35).
Optional: Attach the included plastic clips to the
back of the sewing machine and use the zip ties
to hold the cord.
To attach the light to the front face of the
machine (C), use the adhesive pad included
with the Flex20 light.
Mounting the Thread Stand:
Assemble the thread stand as shown
(Figure 36). Secure it to the tabletop with
included hardware.
35
C
36
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 16
Page 20
Installing the Knee Lift Assembly
To install the knee lift lever (A) to the oil tray,
slide the tting onto the shaft which sticks out of
the front of the oil tray (B). Position the bar so
that the bend is facing toward the needle of the
sewing machine and so the knee pad is easily
engaged when sitting in front of the machine
(Figure 37).
To lift the presser foot of the sewing machine,
push the knee pad to the right and the foot will
rise. Remove pressure and the foot will fall again.
The two set screws (C) found on the bottom of
the oil pan determine how high the foot will lift
and how much play there is in the knee lift lever
when the presser foot is down. (Figure 38).
These settings can be adjusted to suit the user’s
preference. The screw on the right, closest to
the belt, will inuence how high the foot will
raise. Loosen the nut and lower the set screw.
Push the knee lift lever until the foot is near the
max height possible. Tighten the set screw until
it touches the oil tray. Tighten the nut to hold its
location.
To remove undesired slack in the knee lift lever,
adjust the left set screw, closest to the needle.
Loosen the nut and push the knee lift lever until
just before it engages the foot. Leave about one
inch of play then tighten the set screw until it
touches the oil tray. Tighten the nut to hold its
location.
37
B
A
38
C
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Page 21
Check the Machine for Operation:
Plug the motor in and ip the power switch on the motor front. Verify that there is no thread going
through the needle’s eye and that the fabric sample is removed from under the foot. Make sure the
presser foot is up and push down slowly on the top of the foot pedal to operate the machine. Use your
heel to push the bottom of the pedal and the machine will stop. Turn the motor off.
See “Operation” in the Workhorse guidebook for more information and how to set the motor speed.
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook| 18
Page 22
Auto Lubrication
Fill the oil tray with the oil found in the sewing machine box. Try to keep the oil level between the
highest and lowest markings on the oil pan (Figure 39).
When it becomes necessary to change the oil, unscrew plug (A), wipe the dirty oil and the dust from
the oil drip pan, replace the plug and add fresh oil. Use any high quality, clear sewing machine oil.
39
LowestHighest
19 | Sailrite.com
A
Page 23
Controlling the amount of oil distributed to
the entire machine:
The oil pump setting when you receive the
machine is typically correct. If the machine is
not getting enough oil, tilt the machine back and
locate the sump (B). To increase oil ow, close
the clearance of the adjusting plate (C) over
the oil hole (D) to increase vacuum pressure
(Figure 40).
Controlling the amount of oil distributed to
the rotating hook:
The amount of oil getting to the hook can be
adjusted by turning screw (E). Turn it clockwise
to increase oiling or counterclockwise to
decrease oiling. The range of adjustment is
about ve turns (Figure 41).
Note: If oil is splashing up through the needle
plate when sewing, decrease the oil ow to the
hook by turning the screw (E) counterclockwise.
40
C
D
B
41
E
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 20
Page 24
Manual Oiling
Remove the rubber plugs on top of the machine
head (A & B) and put a small amount of oil
in hole (A); then, lift the presser foot and
run the machine at a moderate speed for a
few seconds. (B) is an access hole to get to
an internal oil port hole about 1" inside the
machine. Occasional manual oiling of the hook
and internal moving parts is recommended even
for auto-lubricating sewing machines. Put a drop
of oil on anything that looks like a gear, cam or
slide (Figure 42-43).
Note: Once oiled, sew a scrap piece of material
to make sure all excess oil is worked out of
the machine so it does not leak onto your next
project.
43
42
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B
A
Page 25
43
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook| 22
Page 26
44
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Page 27
Using the Fabricator
Now that your machine is all set
up, it’s time to start sewing!
This next section will explain setting up the machine to
sew including how to wind bobbins, thread the machine
and adjust the tension.
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 24
Page 28
COORDINATING THE NEEDLE, THREAD AND MATERIAL
The Sailrite Fabricator uses system 135 x 17 and 135 x 16 needles. Needle size depends on thread
size and the fabric weight. Sewing heavy material with a small needle may result in needle breakage,
skipped stitches or thread breaks, and too large of a needle may produce large holes that make
tension adjustment sensitive and seams may leak. To select needle and thread combinations, see our
recommendations on page 26.
454647
B
C
A
E
D
Installing Needles
Turn the balance wheel to lift the needle bar to
its highest point. Loosen the needle set screw
(A) and remove the old needle.
Needles have two distinct sides (Figures 45-
46). One side has a long channel or groove (B)
(locate this groove with your ngernail if you
cannot see it) and the other side has a scarf (D)
i.e., a carved out area just above the needle
eye (C).
When inserting a new needle, make sure that
25 | Sailrite.com
the needle groove (B) is facing left when the
operator is seated in front of machine (Figure
46) and that the needle shank is all the way up
before tightening the set screw (Figure 47).
Tip: To make sure your needle is inserted far
enough, you can look through the sighting hole
(E) near the bottom of the needle bar. Lower
the needle bar to its lowest position to have a
better view. The top of the needle should be
fully visible in the sighting hole and pushed all
the way to the top.
Page 29
Thread Recommendations
Polyester
Polyester is the most common choice for
outdoor applications. Perfect for sail and canvas
work, polyester thread has high strength and
stretch control, stability in sunlight (UVR) and
resistance to needle heat, abrasion, saltwater
and mildew.
Nylon
Nylon threads have excellent elasticity, which
makes them the perfect choice for upholstery
projects. When you sit on a seat, you want the
thread to be able to give and rebound under your
weight. Nylon is excellent for indoor upholstery,
PTFE/Fluoropolymer
PTFE and uoropolymer threads (Prolen
& Tenara) come with a lifetime guarantee.
These are the best threads to use for outdoor
applications where your projects will see
frequent, intense sun or other weather
extremes. These threads are unaffected by
exposure to UV rays, cleaning agents, pollution,
saltwater, air, rain and snow.
Monolament
Monolament thread is a clear, strong nylon
thread that blends in with fabrics. It is often used
in upholstery because of its clear color.
automotive upholstery, luggage and more.
STD.GOV.TEXTENSILE (LBS)NEEDLE SIZEFABRIC WEIGHT
General PurposeN/AN/AN/A#10 or #12< 6 oz
V-30AA304.5#12 or #14< 1.5 oz.
V-46B457.1#14 or #16< 3 oz.
V-69E7010.6#16 or #183 - 6 oz. & Sunbrella
V-92F9014.2#18 or #206 - 10 oz. & Sunbrella
V-138FF13521.2#20 or #22> 10 oz.
Prolen/Tenara (V-92)N/AN/A6.7 - 7.9 / 8 - 10#14 or #163 - 20 oz. & Sunbrella
Heavy Tenara (V-138)N/AN/A15 - 20#19 or #20> 15 oz.
This chart offers needle and thread size recommendations for sewing standard, woven fabrics. Needle and thread recommendations for
sewing specialty fabrics are available online in our Thread & Needle Recommendation Guide, downloadable from every fabric detail page.
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 26
Page 30
PREPARING TO SEW
Place a cone of thread on the thread stand,
leading the thread up to the guide above
the thread cone as shown (Figure 48). The
following steps will show you how to wind a
bobbin, put the bobbin in the bobbin case and
thread the machine.
48
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Page 31
How to Wind a Bobbin
1. Push the bobbin on the bobbin winder spindle
as far as it will go (Figure 49).
2. Pass the thread from the thread stand to the
back end of the bobbin winder. Pull the thread
through the hole near the thread tensioner (A)
and then behind and under pulling the thread
between the discs of the tensioner (Figure 50).
3. Bring the thread forward to the bobbin and
push the thread tail through one of the holes in
the bobbin from the inside. Pull the tail out about
two inches (Figure 51).
49
50
A
51
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 28
Page 32
4. Push the bobbin winder lever (A) forward to
move the wheel against the drive belt of the
sewing machine (Figure 52).
5. Disengage the Posi-Pin clutch system to
allow for bobbin winding without running the
machine. Pull the pin out of the balance wheel
and place it in the center hole, as shown, to
store (Figure 53).
Note: Bobbins can also be wound while sewing.
6. Hold the thread tail and power the machine
to start winding the bobbin. Cut the tail ush
with the edge of the bobbin after about twenty
rotations (Figure 54) and then continue under
power until the bobbin is full. If adjustments
are necessary, see “Bobbin Thread Winding
Adjustment” on page 30.
7. To re-engage the clutch:
• Push the Posi-Pin gently into the hole in
the balance wheel.
• Rotate the balance wheel while lightly
pushing on the Posi-Pin until you feel it
connect with any of the 4 bushings holes.
• Push the Pin all the way in and release.
52
A
53
54
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Page 33
Bobbin Thread Winding Adjustment
If the wound bobbin thread is not tight, adjust
the thread tension by turning the tension stud
thumb nut of the bobbin winder (A). If the wound
bobbin is not even, loosen screw (B) and move
tension bracket (C) to the right when the bobbin
is not lling enough on the right or move it to the
left when the bobbin is not lling enough on the
left. An even ll is desired (Figure 56). Once it is
lling properly tighten screw (B).
Do not overll the bobbin as the thread may
jamb in the bobbin case. Fill it to about 80% of
bobbin’s outside diameter. Use the stop latch
screw (D) to control the ll. Rotate the screw
clockwise to increase the amount of thread on
the bobbin and counterclockwise to decrease
the amount of thread.
Note: The metal nger (E) can be bent by hand
if more adjustment is required.
A
B
C
E
D
55
56
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 30
Page 34
Removing and Installing
the Bobbin Case
1. Rotate the balance wheel so that the needle
is just about to enter the feed dog.
2. To remove the bobbin case, lift the spring
loaded lever (A) and pull the bobbin case out.
(Figure 57). Release the lever and the bobbin
will fall out.
3. To install the bobbin case, lift and hold the
spring loaded lever and push the case onto the
axle of the shuttle assembly. The position of
the bobbin case should be installed as shown,
noting the directional position of lever (A)
(Figure 58).
A
Images taken with machine tilted back
57
A
58
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Page 35
How to Thread the Bobbin
Insert the wound bobbin into the bobbin case
(Figure 59).
The thread tail should remain outside of the
case and be passed through the slot in the side
of the case (Figure 60).
Pull the thread under the tension spring
(Figure 61).
As you are holding the case with a view of the
bobbin, the bobbin should turn clockwise when
pulling on the thread tail (Figure 62). If it is not,
take the bobbin out and ip it over.
Now refer back to “Removing and Installing the
Bobbin Case” page 31 to put the bobbin case
back in the machine.
62
59
60
61
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 32
Page 36
Threading the Sewing Machine
1. Raise the needle bar to its highest position by
rotating the balance wheel.
2. Thread comes off the top of the cone to the
thread stand arm (A).
3. Pass the thread toward you through the far
right hole of the three hole thread guide (B); then,
up over the top and through the leftmost hole.
4. Pass the thread through the top hole of
guide (C), bring thread around to the front, then
through the bottom hole of guide (C).
5. Pull the thread over the top of and between
the tension disks (D), then down through (E).
6. Pass the thread around and between the
tension disks (F), in a clockwise motion being
sure the thread goes all the way to the core post.
7. Pass the thread up through the thread take
up spring (G).
8. Pass the thread under the thread guide (H).
9. Lead the thread upward through the
elongated thread nger (I) and then through the
take-up arm (J) from right to left.
10. Lead the thread down through thread nger
(K) then (L) and then through the needle bar
thread guide (M) from front to back.
11. Pass the thread from left to right through the
eye of the needle (N) and draw the thread about
4 inches through the needle eye.
C
D
J
K
H
L
M
N
E
I
G
F
M
N
33 | Sailrite.com
Page 37
B
63
A
I
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook| 34
Page 38
Pulling Up the Bobbin Thread
To pull up the bobbin thread, make sure the
presser feet are up, grasp the end of the needle
thread (A) then rotate the top of the balance
wheel toward you to lower the needle. Continue
to rotate the wheel until the needle is once again
in its highest position. Pull on the needle thread
(A) and the bobbin thread (B) will be drawn up
through the needle plate (Figure 64).
Use a small instrument (seam ripper,
screwdriver, pencil etc.) to slide under the feet
and pull both threads outward (Figure 65). The
needle thread (A) should be through the inner
presser foot when completed.
64
A
B
65
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Page 39
SEWING WITH THE SAILRITE FABRICATOR
Starting to Sew
1. Use the hand lever (C) or knee lift (page
17) to raise the presser feet. Then place the
material to be sewn under the feet and use the
hand lever/knee lift to lower it onto the material.
2. The threads from the needle and bobbin
should be behind the feet as you start to sew.
Hold them down with your nger.
3. Press the motor pedal to begin sewing. After
the rst couple stitches are made, you may let
go of the thread ends. (If the thread ends are
not held down for the rst few stitches, they may
get tangled.)
Always turn the balance wheel of the machine
toward you to reduce the possibility of a thread
jam in the lower mechanism.
Never operate the machine (when threaded)
without material under the presser foot.
66
C
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 36
Page 40
Setting the Stitch Length and Operating in Reverse
The stitch length regulating dial (A) indicates the stitch length in millimeters. Lift the presser feet and
press the tab labeled “PUSH” to unlock the dial. Rotate the dial within its range of 0mm and 8mm to
your desired stitch length.
Do not force the dial beyond the ends of the range.
To sew in reverse, press lever (B) down fully. Forward movement is automatically restored when lever
(B) is released. It is best to initiate reverse when the machine is in motion, but you may also manually
rotate the balance wheel so the needle is either in its highest or lowest position before pressing the
reverse lever and starting to sew.
67
A
B
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Page 41
Adjusting the Pressure
of the Presser Feet
Different materials require different presser
foot pressure in order to feed properly. Heavy
materials require more foot pressure and light
materials sometimes pucker with too much foot
pressure. To increase foot pressure, loosen
the two lock nuts (C) and turn the pressure
regulating thumb screws (D) clockwise as
shown (Figure 68).
To reduce pressure, loosen the two lock nuts
(C) and turn the two pressure regulating thumb
screws (D) counterclockwise as shown (Figure
69).
After adjustment, tighten the lock nuts. The two
screws should always be maintained at roughly
the same height.
D D
C
D
C
68
D
69
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 38
Page 42
Adjusting Upper
Tension Assemblies
Tension adjustment refers to the combination of
tension on both the upper thread and the bobbin
thread.
The tension knobs can be turned clockwise or
counterclockwise in order to compress/release
a spring that squeezes the two disks together
increasing/decreasing tension. The pretensioner
(A) should be used when minor adjustments are
required. All other adjustments should be made
with the main tension assembly (B).
A good starting tension point for sewing heavy
canvas is when the outside surface of the
tension nut (C) is ush with the end of the post
(D) it is threaded on.
When the presser foot is lifted, the upper
tension disks are separated. This releases the
top thread tension so fabric can be removed
from under the machine foot without ghting
thread tension.
DO NOT lift the presser foot when the main
tension knob (C) is less than a 1/2 turn from
maximum (turned snugly clockwise).
If upper tension is tightened all the way down,
raising the presser foot may bend the lever
inside the machine that separates the disks,
preventing the disks from opening correctly.
70
A
B
D
C
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Page 43
Adjusting Bobbin Thread Tension
71
The correct combination of thread tension
(Figure 71) results in a stitch that looks identical
on both sides of the material (i.e., the knots of
the stitches are pulled into the fabric and are no
more visible on the top than on the bottom).
When stitch tension is a problem, it is usually a
consequence of too much or too little tension on
the upper thread.
Tension changes to the bobbin thread should
only be made when upper tension changes
alone do not solve stitch tension problem. In
general, bobbin tension requires just about a
two-ounce drag on the thread (similar to what
you feel when pulling dental oss off a spool).
Note: Always set the machine with too little
tension rst and then slowly increase the upper
tension to the point that the knots just disappear
on the bottom side of the fabric.
E
F
Knots pulled to top:
1. Decrease upper tension (E)
2. Increase bobbin case tension (F)
Knots centered — Perfect Stitch
G
H
Knots visible on bottom:
1. Increase upper tension (G)
2. Decrease bobbin case tension (H)
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 40
Page 44
Removing Material from Under the Presser Feet
1. Stop the machine with the needle at its upward-most position.
2. Lift the hand lever to raise the presser foot or use the knee lift.
3. Pull the material straight back to remove it from under the foot.
Note: It is sometimes helpful to rock the balance wheel forward and back to free the thread from the
tension assembly.
Sewing in Light to Moderate Weight Fabrics
1. Be sure to use an appropriate thread. Nylon thread is often preferred for interior upholstery.
2. Select an appropriately sized needle, i.e. match the fabric and thread weight to the needle size.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. See page 26 for needle and thread recommendations.
3. Decrease pressure on the feet. In heavy fabrics, more pressure aids in feeding. In lighter fabrics,
too much foot pressure may pucker the fabric. See Figure 68-69 for the location of the thumb screws
to adjust the foot pressure.
4. Decrease the upper thread tension. Too much upper thread tension will cause puckering of the
fabric. It may be necessary to increase pressure on the bobbin case spring when using light weight
thread. The bobbin spring will not clamp down on the smaller diameter thread like it does on heavier
thread. See page 39 & 40 for tension adjustment.
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Page 45
Fabricator Maintenance
After years of use, industrial sewing
machines usually require a few adjustments.
This section explains in detail how to make the adjustments
most often made by sewing machine mechanics on
industrial machines. This knowledge empowers you to be
able to maintain the Fabricator yourself.
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 42
Page 46
Feed Dog Height Adjustment
The feed dog should be 0.8-1.2mm above the
surface of the needle plate when at the top of its
travel. If this needs adjusted, tilt the machine so
it is hinged back in the table and loosen screw
(A) to adjust the feed dog height as needed
(Figure 72).
Normally, the feed dog should be completely
level, but in some instances, setting one
end higher than the other may help x some
common problems.
Setting the front of the feed dog in the lowest
position may prevent puckering and reduce
skipping of stitches. Setting the front in the
highest position may prevent material from
sliding and can reduce breakage of the bobbin
thread. When sewing conditions require tilting
the feed dog one way or the other, use the
following procedures:
Loosen screw (B) and press against the slot of
the eccentric shaft (C) with a screwdriver to turn
the shaft left or right (Figure 73). Tighten screw
(B) when the feed dog is tilted as desired.
There is a small, black mark (D) on the eccentric
shaft. Use this mark to determine the desired tilt
of the feed dog (Figure 74).
A
D
C
In line with
screw (B)
Above
screw (B)
Below
screw (B)
Note: These drawings are exaggerated.
Feed dog tilt is far less noticeable
B
72
73
74
Standard
Front lowest
Front highest
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Page 47
Setting the Feed Dog Position
When the stitch length regulator is set at its
maximum length (8mm), rotate the balance
wheel so that the feed dog is as far forward as
possible. The front end of feed dog should be
very close to the front needle plate opening.
The distance between the two should be about
1.5mm (Figure 75).
If it needs adjustment, tilt the machine so it is
hinged back in the table and loosen screws (E)
(Figure 76). Then, move the feed dog support
(F) up or down which will move the feed dog
forward or back within the needle plate opening.
After proper adjustment, tighten screws (E).
Note About Adjustments:
Any adjustments made in this section (p. 44-49) will alter subsequent settings. Once a change
has been made, all adjustments on the following pages need to be made to ensure proper
timing. For example, if a change is made on page 45, changes outlined on pages 46-49 must be
done to maintain proper timing.
1.5mm
F
E
75
76
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 44
Page 48
Adjusting Needle Position &
Clearance Between Presser Feet
To prevent the inner presser foot from striking
the outer presser foot at the end of feeding, the
needle should be positioned in the center of the
feed dog hole. Rotate the balance wheel so the
inner presser foot is at its furthest back position,
toward the outer presser foot (Figure 77). The
two presser feet should not touch. Now rotate
the balance wheel so the feed dog is as far
forward as possible (away from outer presser
foot). The needle should be centered in the feed
dog hole.
If it needs adjustment, loosen the screw for the
motion shaft crank (Figure 78) and notice that
the needle moves near the back of the feed dog
hole. Grabbing the needle bar and inner presser
foot, hold them in a position so that needle is
in the center of the feed dog hole (Figure 79).
Tighten the screw (Figure 78) when positioned
properly. Make a full rotation of the balance
wheel and conrm the inner and outer presser
feet still don’t touch (Figure 77).
77
78
79
If adjustment is made, please refer to the
“Note About Adjustments” on page 44.
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Page 49
Timing Between the Needle & the Rotating Hook
When timing the Sailrite Fabricator, it is important that the needle bar height is correct. Anytime the
needle bar height is changed, it is critical that the timing be checked and, if necessary, reset to ensure
the proper operation of your machine.
To set the needle bar height on the Sailrite Fabricator:
1. Make sure a #20 needle is installed.
2. Set the stitch length indicator to its lowest
setting by pressing the “PUSH” tab and rotating
the knob clockwise toward 1mm stitch length.
Note: the reverse lever will not move up or down
after this is done.
3. Remove the faceplate found on the left side
of the machine (Figure 80). The 2 screws that
secure the faceplate to the machine are found in
the recessed holes at the top of the faceplate (A).
4. Rotate the balance wheel until the needle is at
the bottom of its stroke.
5. Tilt the machine back and loosen the needle
bar clamp (B) (Figure 81) and adjust the height of
the needle bar so that the top of the bobbin is at
the center of the eye of the needle (Figure 82).
Note: when adjusting the height of the needle bar
take care to not rotate the needle bar.
6. Tighten the needle bar clamp (B) securely.
7. Re-install the faceplate.
80
A
B
If adjustment is made, please refer to the “Note About Adjustments” on page 44.
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 46
81
82
Page 50
To set the machine’s timing:
1. Tilt the machine back and remove the slide
plate by sliding it all the way to the left until it
comes off of the machine (Figure 83).
2. Raise the presser feet and rotate the balance
wheel until the needle is at the highest position.
Remove the needle plate and the feed dog;
each is held in place by two screws (Figure 84).
3. Ensure that the stitch length indicator is set
to its lowest setting by pressing the “PUSH” tab
and rotating the knob clockwise toward the 1mm
stitch length (Figure 85).
FEED DOG SCREWS
NEEDLE PLATE SCREWS
83
84
85
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Page 51
4. Rotate the balance wheel until the needle is
at the bottom of its stroke.
5. Continue to rotate the balance wheel until the
needle comes up 2.5mm from its lowest setting
(Figure 88).
To do this, rotate the balance wheel so that the
needle is at it’s lowest position. Make a mark on
a paper 2.5mm from the edge. Hold the paper
up to where the needle bar meets the machine
casting and make a mark on the bar at the
2.5mm location (Figure 86).
Rotate the balance wheel until the mark lines up
with the machine casting (Figure 87).
86
87
MARK
88
2.5mm
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 48
Page 52
6. The point of the hook should be lined up with
the vertical centerline of the needle (Figure 89)
and a very small gap of about 0.5mm should
exist between the needle and the hook (Figure
90).
7. To adjust, rotate the balance wheel and
loosen each of the 3 screws (A) holding the
hook in place (Figure 91). Repeat steps 4 and
5 and set the hook so that the requirements in
step 6 are met.
8. Tighten each of the 3 screws (A) holding
the hook in place. Take care not to disturb the
positioning of the hook. Go back and ensure
each of these 3 screws are secure to ensure
that the timing does not slip during machine
usage.
9. Re-install the feed dog and needle plate
taking care to center (left/right) the feed dog in
the needle plate.
Note: Loosen the most convenient screw to
access last when in the step 6 position. This
one screw can be adjusted alone as timing is
ne tuned. Be certain to tighten all three screws
when the timing is perfect.
89
NEEDLE
HOOK
90
GAP
91
A
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Page 53
Adjusting the Presser Foot Lift
The relationship of the two feet affects the ability
of the machine to transition from thin to thick
materials. If a foot is getting stuck on the fabric,
adjustment may be necessary. Having the
outside presser foot set at the recommended
maximum height will improve feeding of varied
thickness fabric assemblies.
Generally, for sewing heavy and medium weight
fabrics, the outside presser foot height should
be about 4mm and the height of the inside
presser foot should be at about 2mm.
When the outside presser foot height is
increased, the inside foot lift will decrease
proportionately. Decreasing the height of the
outside presser foot will increase the height of
the inner foot and smooth the sewing/feeding
operation.
To adjust the relationship between the two feet,
lower the presser feet and rotate the balance
wheel until the outside presser foot is in the
upmost position. Next, loosen the screw for the
crank (B) (there are 2 cranks about 4" apart
and either one will make the adjustment). After
loosening the screw, grab the outer presser foot
and manually move it up or down as desired
(set between 2mm and 4mm above the needle
plate). Tighten the screw when done.
92
B
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 50
Page 54
Adjusting the Vertical Lift
of the Outer Presser Foot
93
Sailrite sets the outer presser foot at the
maximum height. DO NOT further increase foot
height or the machine will jam during operation.
The amount of lift of the outer presser foot is
increased or decreased with pivot slide (A).
When moved up, the range of movement
of the presser foot is increased (lifts higher)
allowing the machine to better feed applications
with thickness transitions. Sliding the pivot
down lowers the lift height and makes feeding
smoother, which will help when sewing delicate
fabrics.
Adjustment of the outer presser foot vertical lift
with the pivot slide (A) will not affect the inside
presser foot lift.
Sailrite does not recommend making this
adjustment. If you believe this setting needs
to be altered on your machine, please call
and speak with a technician before making
any changes.
A
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Page 55
Adjusting Feed Timing of the Needle
Bar, Presser Foot and Feed Dog
1. Raise the presser foot and set the stitch
length regulator to maximum (8mm). Turn the
balance wheel to lower the needle into the hole
of the feed dog and check to see if the needle
is centered in the hole at the feed dog’s forward
most position (B).
Note: If the needle if not centered in the Feed
Dog hole (B), see page 45.
2. Keep turning the balance wheel until a
full rotation is achieved. If the needle is still
centered in the feed dog hole (B) throughout
the movement, then the mechanism is timed
properly. If it ends up in position (C), this
indicates that the feed amount of the needle bar
and presser foot is larger than that of the feed
dog. To correct this, you will need to reduce
distance (D). Use a wrench and loosen the nut.
Slide the nut and its connected pivot block up.
If the timing is off and the needle ends up at
position (E), then the feed amount of the needle
bar and presser foot is smaller than that of the
feed dog. In this case, enlarge distance (D) as
explained above but slide the nut down. Make
adjustments until the needle arrives at (B) (the
center of the feed dog hole at the end of the
rotation).
94
C
B
E
STITCH LENGTH
B
NEEDLE
95
D
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 52
Page 56
Stitch Length Adjustment
Between Forward and Reverse
Set the machine to the longest stitch length
possible (8mm) and tilt the machine so it is
hinged back in the table.
Loosen screw (A) and (B), located on the shaft
below the oil sump, and take out link pin (C)
(Figure 96).
This will allow the length regulator (D) to pivot
down (Figure 97) so that the slotted cam (E)
can be accessed through the link pin hole (F).
Loosen screw (G) to adjust the cam (E) with a
small, standard screwdriver (H) (Figure 98).
Note: Hold the reverse lever down for better
access to cam (E)
Turn the slotted cam clockwise to shorten the
forward stitch length and lengthen the reverse
stitch length. Turn the cam counterclockwise to
lengthen the forward stitch length and shorten
the reverse stitch length.
Reassemble the pivot by replacing the link pin
(C) through the length regulator (D) and link (F)
as it was before making the adjustment. The
at on the link pin shaft should face screw (A).
Retighten all screws.
Note: Do not rotate the balance wheel while
disassembled as it will disrupt the timing of the
machine.
96
A
B
F
D
H
E
G
C
97
98
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Page 57
Adjusting the Thread Take-Up Spring
The normal sewing range of the thread take-up
spring is 7/32" to 1/2". When sewing light weight
materials with a short stitch length, decrease
the spring tension and increase the travel of the
spring to as much as 1/2". For sewing heavy
weight materials, increase the spring tension
and shorten its travel to as little as 7/32".
To adjust the travel of the thread take-up
spring: Loosen set screw (I) and turn the
complete tension assembly clockwise to
increase the spring range (up to 1/2") or turn it
counterclockwise to decrease the spring range
(down to 7/32") (Figure 99).
7/32"
to 1/2"
99
I
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 54
Page 58
To adjust the thread take-up spring tension:
Lower the presser feet to relieve pressure on the
tension assembly. Loosen the tension stud set
screw (A), turn tension stud (B) clockwise with a
screwdriver (C) inserted in the split shaft end to
provide more spring tension, or counterclockwise
to decrease tension. After adjustment, tighten
the tension stud set screw (A) while pushing the
tension stud in so that it is seated fully as it was
before loosening (Figure 100).
Note: To make this adjustment it is often
necessary to remove the whole tension
assembly from the machine to gain access to
screw (A). Remove by loosening set screw (I)
(page 54) then pull out the assembly. Make
sure to notice the insertion depth of the tension
assembly core before doing this. When done,
the core should be reset to the same depth.
To set spring tension as it was originally
set by Sailrite: Loosen set screw (A) rst and
then turn the tension stud (B) counterclockwise
to reduce the tension of thread take-up spring
(D) to zero. From here, turn the tension stud
(B) clockwise until the spring (D) just comes
into contact with the end of the slot on the
thread take-up spring regulator. Then, further
turn tension stud (B) clockwise by 3/8". After
adjustment, tighten tension stud set screw (A).
The thread take-up spring was properly adjusted
before the machine was shipped. Readjustment
is needed only in the case of sewing special
materials or thread.
100
D
73
C
A
B
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Page 59
TROUBLESHOOTING
Skipped Stitches
If your machine is skipping stitches the hook
is not catching the thread consistently. This
is usually because either the thread is not
being held down by the fabric as the needle is
withdrawn which does not allow for the loop of
thread to be formed for the hook as it passes
the needle, or the hook may not be passing the
needle at the proper time. It may be passing
the needle before a loop is formed or, at the
opposite extreme, after the thread has been
pulled upward out of the path of the hook.
Four Ways to Eliminate Skipped Stitches
1) CHANGE THE NEEDLE: The rst thing to
do is simply change the needle. A bent needle
will cause skipped stitches because the loop is
not where the hook expects it to be. The needle
could also have become covered with adhesive
if you are using basting tape or sewing insignia
cloth. In either case, the new needle will resolve
these problems.
Also, make sure that the needle is in correctly
(page 25), and check the upper thread path
(page 33). The thread should pass from left to
right through the needle eye.
2) ADJUST THE FOOT PRESSURE: Next,
check for adequate foot pressure. Heavy,
closely-woven materials like sailcloth and
canvas can make the withdrawal of the needle
from the fabric difcult. If the presser foot is
lifting as the needle comes out of the cloth, the
effect is the same as if the needle were not
going far enough into the cloth. The loop that it
forms will be too small. To solve this problem,
more downward pressure must be placed on the
feet (page 38).
3) RESET THE NEEDLE BAR HEIGHT: If
skipped stitches continue to be a problem,
the machine has most likely gone out of time.
Check the height of the needle bar as described
in “Timing Between the Needle and the Rotating
Hook” on page 46.
4) CHECK THE TIMING: If the needle bar
height is set properly and poor stitching still
results, check the timing or the positioning of
the hook. See “To set the machine’s timing” on
page 47.
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 56
Page 60
Lack of Stitch Tension
Refer to the section titled “Adjusting Upper
Tension Assemblies” and “Adjusting Bobbin
Thread Tension” on pages 39-40. If adjustments
still do not result in proper thread tension,
move to the next larger needle and adjust the
elongated thread guide (A) position as shown
(Figure 101).
101
A
102
MaterialThread Guide Position
Light (less tension)
Medium
Heavy (more tension)
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Page 61
Fabricator Schematics
Understand the ins and outs of the Fabricator with
complete parts and systems schematics.
Sailrite Fabricator Guidebook | 58
Page 62
9
3
20
2
3
1
6
22
21
18
19
4
28
12
15
14
30
5
5
26
2
29
8
5
16
7
27
33
32
18
34
17
25
3
23
13
10
11
31
24
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Page 63
Machine Arm and Bed
No. Name Part#
1. Face Plate ...............................................35T4-402a
SHUTTLEFull Rotary, Gear Driven, Large Style M Bobbin
LUBRICATIONAuto Lubrication
WEIGHT 79 lbs.
BED SIZE18.75" X 7"
UNDERARM SPACE10.25" X 5"
BUILT-IN KNEE LIFTYes
The sewing machine casting does not have an internal motor. It is powered by Sailrite’s exclusive
Workhorse Servo motor using Sailrite’s patented Posi-Pin system (Pat. #7438009) and Stitch PRO
Balance Wheel.