Above 1200 Sq/FT Zeph's Quasi WWII Era Shop

[fourbyford]

There are 2 different types of industrial machines. One type is a fairly heavy-built machine, powered by a clutch motor (fairly common on all industrial machines) but designed for high speed sewing. These machines were used mainly in garment factories. You don't want this type.
The other type is a walking foot machine... hopefully with at least 1/2" clearance under the foot... the more the better. These machines are about as strong as they get and will sew multiple layers of heavy canvas or leather. These machines also commonly use clutch motors but, hopefully the motor is a 1725 rpm version. When sewing the heavy stuff, its beneficial to be able to sew 1 stitch at a time. The 1725 rpm motors are better suited to this use.

If she has a walking foot machine, it would probably be hard to go wrong. You could buy it, complete your projects, and then sell it... would probably get all your money back. The cool thing with buying that one (if it's a walking foot) is that she could school you a bit on the machine...

Hope you find something!

...D

 

[fourbyford]

Post not needed


...D

 

[fourbyford]

Ditto

 

[zepher11]

Good news. I spoke with the women I know that has the industrial sewing machine. She would sell, but says it would be too much for what I wated to do now...learn. She would take $1,000.

However, she said she could probably help and asked for photos of the seat covers. I sent here some photos. She said "Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy." Well, easy for her to say.

Anyway, I ordered some different canvas, but now I'm thinking I may have ordered too little. I ordered eight yards. 60" wide canvas. Was thinking one yard per cushion. The largest cushion is 44" x 24". Then have the small jump seat and the two seats with the 32" x 24" bottoms and 32" x 20" seat backs.

I have other canvas that I could use if I run short. Could always do the driver's seat in a different canvas.

Found a slew of photos of a canvas seat job in a Carryall. I'll have to post some later.

 

[zepher11]

Here are some photos of Carryall canvas seats. It's interesting that it looks like the canvas is pinched and then sewed along all of the edges. Almost appears that the canvas isn't cut at the seams...just pinched and sewn. Maybe it's an optical conclusion? Maybe just another technique?

Interesting. Not sure we could duplicate that pinch. One can see it better in the last two photos:

 

[fourbyford]

That is great news!

I assume her machine is a walking foot? If the machine is complete... set up with a table and motor, $1k is pretty much a steal. Usually, for industrial walking foot machines, people are asking $1k just for the machine... motor and table are extra.

It's really cool that she is willing to help with the upholstery job! I'm sure her labor rate will be MUCH less than the upholstery shop would charge. Maybe she would let you look over her shoulder a bit as she does the work? Even watching for an hour or so, you would get the basic idea... then, if you do decide to buy that (or another) machine later, you could be up and running pretty easily.

Canvas shortage... as long as the color and texture of the different fabrics are a close match... shouldn't be a problem. If there is a noticeable difference, it might be worth ordering another couple, three yards. As with most things, the labor is the issue... cost of materials is usually a minor consideration.

I'm thinking she should be able to replicate the seams in the pic if you like that style. It does have a more "finished" look to it.

As you know, from watching the Sailrite vid, you sew things together by placing "right sides" together, then sewing the seam from the back side. We essentially construct a cover "inside out". They created that seam by cutting the fabric larger than the cushion and then folding over probably 1/2" - 3/4" all around the top piece, creating a finished hem... the edge of which is visible in the pic. Think of the folded hem at the bottom of a "T" shirt. Then, they took the fabric strip that covers the edges of the cushion and sewed it so that, when turned right side out, the hemmed edge of the top piece is visible. Pretty straight forward.

Anyways, it sounds like you have the upholstery job under control... very cool!

Another step closer to completion!

 

[zepher11]

Moving on with working on the front doors of the Carryall. They are pretty beat, so need some fairly extensive bodywork. First, they were really dented and the metal was stretched fairly good. Figured I would torch them and hammer and dolly the molecules to the center in hopes the oil canning would tighten up and cease.

It was so hot out that I used some ice to keep the water cool:

Well, it appeared to work, but still have a lot of body work to do:

Just a smidge of body filler:

Shot a little Red Oxide to seal every thing up:

Then a little of the 2X primer:

Now the work begins:

I sanded and sanded and then shot some more 2X on the doors:

Finally ready to go for an attempt at final OD:

Not happy with the OD. Had a couple of runs. It was cooler today. Only 99 degrees, but still the paint drys before it hits the door sometimes. I'll sand them down...again...and shoot them in the early morning when it's really cool like 85 degrees.

Also took a break and installed the floor mat for the cab:

Then painted up the rear chains and latches and installed the leather covers:

 

[zepher11]

That is great news!

I assume her machine is a walking foot? If the machine is complete... set up with a table and motor, $1k is pretty much a steal. Usually, for industrial walking foot machines, people are asking $1k just for the machine... motor and table are extra.

It's really cool that she is willing to help with the upholstery job! I'm sure her labor rate will be MUCH less than the upholstery shop would charge. Maybe she would let you look over her shoulder a bit as she does the work? Even watching for an hour or so, you would get the basic idea... then, if you do decide to buy that (or another) machine later, you could be up and running pretty easily.

Canvas shortage... as long as the color and texture of the different fabrics are a close match... shouldn't be a problem. If there is a noticeable difference, it might be worth ordering another couple, three yards. As with most things, the labor is the issue... cost of materials is usually a minor consideration.

I'm thinking she should be able to replicate the seams in the pic if you like that style. It does have a more "finished" look to it.

As you know, from watching the Sailrite vid, you sew things together by placing "right sides" together, then sewing the seam from the back side. We essentially construct a cover "inside out". They created that seam by cutting the fabric larger than the cushion and then folding over probably 1/2" - 3/4" all around the top piece, creating a finished hem... the edge of which is visible in the pic. Think of the folded hem at the bottom of a "T" shirt. Then, they took the fabric strip that covers the edges of the cushion and sewed it so that, when turned right side out, the hemmed edge of the top piece is visible. Pretty straight forward.

Anyways, it sounds like you have the upholstery job under control... very cool!

Another step closer to completion!

Not sure if it's a waling foot, but believe so. I'll hopefully will get a little schooling in with her.

Yeah, I really like the look of those seats I posted above. Not sure if we can reproduce something like that.

I went to the local lumber store for two sheets of plywood. Wow...two 3/4" sheets of CDX was $74. I remember the days before Katrina when plywood was reasonable. Shot up after that and never came down. Kinda like freight and UPS charges that went up due to the spike in fuel. Never when down...I think shipping is still going up...when the fuel price was cut in half.

Anyway, I have the plywood and I ordered the foam. So, I now have $858 in the seats so far and I haven't even started yet.

 

[BUGTHUG]

ouch

 

[mybigwarwagon]

I will send you my Suburban and you can practice redoing the interior on it. LOL.

I can't wait to see the finished product.

 

[zepher11]

I will send you my Suburban and you can practice redoing the interior on it. LOL.

I can't wait to see the finished product.

haha....that's a big project too. Here's a 1935 Chevrolet Suburban that I wouldn't mind working on:

 

[mybigwarwagon]

haha....that's a big project too. Here's a 1935 Chevrolet Suburban that I wouldn't mind working on:

Is the pic not working, or is my internet being stupid.

My trucks have the common GM problem of lousy leather. I don't know where they started sourcing it from in the 90s, but I think it might be roadkill.

 

[mybigwarwagon]

haha....that's a big project too. Here's a 1935 Chevrolet Suburban that I wouldn't mind working on:

Is the pic not working, or is my internet being stupid.

My trucks have the common GM problem of lousy leather. I don't know where they started sourcing it from in the 90s, but I think it might be roadkill.

 

[Grizz1963]

What awesome work.

A friend was painting last year and had the same problem with it drying before hitting the target.

Looks good, and really like the interior.

 

[zepher11]

Is the pic not working, or is my internet being stupid.

My trucks have the common GM problem of lousy leather. I don't know where they started sourcing it from in the 90s, but I think it might be roadkill.

Weird. The photo was there last evening when I posted. Now completely gone. I'll take a look at it after work this evening. Photo was on my PC at home.

Yeah, I'm sure they are always looking for the cheapest leather available. Just get it out the door then past the warranty and we're good!

What awesome work.

A friend was painting last year and had the same problem with it drying before hitting the target.

Looks good, and really like the interior.

I know on the paint drying fast. I just need to get up earlier. However, at 4:45 am when I worked out in the garage this morning it was already 83 degrees.

Looks like no painting for our Labor Day Holiday weekend for me. Seems like the temperatures always spike on my days off Saturday, Sunday and now Monday next week:

Lets see if this photo works:

Thanks Grizz!

 

[fourbyford]

Nice work on the doors and floors! Everything is coming along nicely!

The price of lumber is getting insane. When I first got back to Wyoming, I complained about having to pay $16+ a sheet for OSB, a week or so later, it went to nearly $20. I've had to change my plans on a building project there. Had intended to install roof purlins on a post frame building... followed by OSB sheathing, then the metal roof. Looking at the price of materials, I'm going to forego the OSB. I'm thinking, at these prices, just the purlins will cost more than the entire (sub) roof would've at "normal" pricing.

I hear ya on the heat... the weather here (Idaho) this past week has been very pleasant. A serious warm-up is on the way...

I just stumbled on a You Tube vid...
The style of upholstery you like is called a
"flat felled seam"
If you have a minute, its worth a look.
Not only can you see exactly how the seam is constructed, there are close-ups of how the walking foot machine works... the machines he's using apparently don't have a "reverse" and you can see how he manually creates a lock stitch at the beginning and end of each seam. This vid might be helpful for your friend if she's not familiar with this style of seam.

Anyways, thanks for posting up your progress... everything is looking great!


Not sure if this attachment will hyperlink... might have to search for it...


...D



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[shortykorte]

Wait, the SUV goes back to the 30’s? LOL


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[zepher11]

Nice work on the doors and floors! Everything is coming along nicely!

The price of lumber is getting insane. When I first got back to Wyoming, I complained about having to pay $16+ a sheet for OSB, a week or so later, it went to nearly $20. I've had to change my plans on a building project there. Had intended to install roof purlins on a post frame building... followed by OSB sheathing, then the metal roof. Looking at the price of materials, I'm going to forego the OSB. I'm thinking, at these prices, just the purlins will cost more than the entire (sub) roof would've at "normal" pricing.

I hear ya on the heat... the weather here (Idaho) this past week has been very pleasant. A serious warm-up is on the way...

I just stumbled on a You Tube vid...
The style of upholstery you like is called a
"flat felled seam"
If you have a minute, its worth a look.
Not only can you see exactly how the seam is constructed, there are close-ups of how the walking foot machine works... the machines he's using apparently don't have a "reverse" and you can see how he manually creates a lock stitch at the beginning and end of each seam. This vid might be helpful for your friend if she's not familiar with this style of seam.

Anyways, thanks for posting up your progress... everything is looking great!


Not sure if this attachment will hyperlink... might have to search for it...


...D[/URL]

I found the video for the flat felled seam. He does make it look easy, and I see what the walking foot does. It appears to hold the fabric and keep it in line. I have no idea how everything is held together with the thread. I see the needle go through the fabric and I imagine some kind of magic goes on underneath that ties a know each time the needle goes through. Or maybe there are little guys in there doing it.

This has been a fairly warm summer this year. Seems like we have had days at or over a hundred degrees for months. Last year was a relatively cool summer. Just luck of the draw I guess. We'll survive. Rather have it 100 degrees than in the 20's and 30's all day, so can't complain really.

Wait, the SUV goes back to the 30’s? LOL

I know. I was kept calling my 1941 Carryall the first SUV, but Chevy beat them to it appears. Haven't seen any restored 1935 Chevy Suburban military vehicles. Would be cool.

 

[TylerRNEMT]

-Tyler

 

[TylerRNEMT]

I found the hearty WWII GI's that took on the task of field repairing a multibank engine. I wonder if they finally got it back in there? They must have had a repair truck pull it:

Moments like these are why I will ALWAYS stand for our National Anthem.

-Tyler

 

[fourbyford]

A second spool of thread (called a bobbin) is located under the base of the machine. A cylindrical device rotates beneath the base, timed with the action of the needle. As the needle pierces the fabric, pushing the thread below the base, the rotating cylinder grabs the thread from the bobbin (by means of a "hook") and loops it around the primary thread. As the needle comes out of the fabric, it pulls tension on the main thread, creating a stitch. The tension on the primary thread and on the bobbin need to be regulated so that the "loop" is centered between the layers of fabric.

It's hard for me to grasp that sewing machines have been around for well over 100 years. They've gotten fancier and more efficient but the basic concept hasn't changed.

That Suburban is waaaay cool. I'm with you... I'd be happy to undertake a resto on one of those!

...D

 

[zepher11]

Moments like these are why I will ALWAYS stand for our National Anthem.

-Tyler

Amen brother...

A second spool of thread (called a bobbin) is located under the base of the machine. A cylindrical device rotates beneath the base, timed with the action of the needle. As the needle pierces the fabric, pushing the thread below the base, the rotating cylinder grabs the thread from the bobbin (by means of a "hook") and loops it around the primary thread. As the needle comes out of the fabric, it pulls tension on the main thread, creating a stitch. The tension on the primary thread and on the bobbin need to be regulated so that the "loop" is centered between the layers of fabric.

It's hard for me to grasp that sewing machines have been around for well over 100 years. They've gotten fancier and more efficient but the basic concept hasn't changed.

That Suburban is waaaay cool. I'm with you... I'd be happy to undertake a resto on one of those!

...D

I have noticed that when completing a run on the machine, the operator pulls out the fabric and it appears there are two runs of thread. I surmise one of those is the bobbin thread. I have heard of bobbins, but for some reason have never really be exposed to a sewing machine. My mom, nor my wife sew...at all. I have always sewn my own items like patches and buttons by hand. A thimble is sure handy for that!

Thank you for the explaination on the operation. I'm really getting the bug to try one out. Can't find anything on Craigslist yet. Have seen industrial machines before on there, so a straight stitch with a walking foot will pop up eventually.

Yeah, I wonder how many military Suburbans were made back then? They must be pretty rare.

 

[zepher11]

Found a little history about the 1935 Suburban. Only five remain. Like the other Chevy's back in the day, the Suburban's body framework was wood which rotted fairly quickly in the weather once the roof rotted. We talked previousy why the cars of that era could not have a metal roof. Anyway, generally that's whey there are so many old Fords and not that many old Chevy's. Ford body frame work was metal. Good idea Henry!:

https://oldchevytrucks.com/blog/index.php/2012/10/the-first-1935-suburban/

 

[tym]

AI have always sewn my own items like patches and buttons by hand. A thimble is sure handy for that!

Same here. I have used a sewing awl, which lets you understand what the machine does automatically. The awl produces nice, even, machine-like stitches that are great for small repairs.

 

[zepher11]

Same here. I have used a sewing awl, which lets you understand what the machine does automatically. The awl produces nice, even, machine-like stitches that are great for small repairs.

Haven't used one of those either, but my wife would like a jacket with a bunch of my WWII patches sewn on. Trying to figure out how I could pull that off as a present. Been looking for someone to do it, but can't find anyone. Maybe the sewing awl would be the way to go.

Made a daring daytime dash to just above the SF Bay Area yesterday morning. Geez, the traffic down there is brutal. However, I guess it pays off to be nice.

A guy I know needed some parts for his half-ton project. I had them and removed them from a couple of my stashed trucks, and said I could bring them down to him. He has been working on a resto-mod? Or something like that on a half-ton Dodge WC. He's installed a Ford 4.9 liter inline six. Made his own bell housing as well as a lot ton of other mods. It's a WWII Dodge WC22 set on a M37 frame. The tires are massive. I wanted to check it out, so made the dash. It's a beast all right. Here's a couple of photo of it:

Anyway, he said it's his last project. He had been collecting Dodge WC parts and NOS parts for 50 years. He ended up giving me all of his Dodge WC parts collection. I can't even calculate what all of this is worth. Literally thousands of dollars if I had to buy it. Lots of seals and bearings as well as a ton of other NOS parts. Some rusty gold as well. A number of NOS gauges still in the sealed box. Now to organize with all of the other Dodge parts I have. Yes, I think this now pushes me into the super OD hoarder category for sure :

Also received the high density foam for the Carryall seat project. Hoping that the height is good. Need to mock up the driver's seat. All the WWII trucks were designed for 5'9" 150 lb soldiers. Me at 6'2" 178 lbs find them all a bit tight. Jeep especially, but my head tends to hit the roof on the closed cabs. My line of sight ends up being above the windshield opening. No fun ducking down to see whilst driving. Should be able to dial it in.

Happy Labor Day weekend everyone!

 

[tym]

^ Nice haul!



How's the wife's blood pressure?

 

[fourbyford]

Wow! You ended up with quite a stash! It's hard to believe the number of NOS parts there...
Now, you need more projects to use everything up???

...D

 

[gpw_42]

Zeph that's an amazing haul - I'm 10x jealous of your NOS goodies.

Your buddy in SF did an interesting resto mod...that's not my cup of tea, but probably a LOT more capable truck than a GI WC22. Other than the oddball tires it looks really well done.

I'll PM you about your wife's jacket sewing.

 

[bugnut]

Zeph what a great collection to receive! Love your work!

As for the sewing, a local upholsterer sews my name tags on my shirts. I glue them in place with fabric glue he stitches them on. He told me he does a lot of leather jacket badge sewing for motorcycle folks. He's relatively inexpensive.

 

[shortykorte]

The parts sure made for a worthwhile trip. Good looking truck.


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[black jack]

Very cool thread - there's more interesting stuff in here than most car forums I read.

 

[zepher11]

^ Nice haul!



How's the wife's blood pressure?

lol...she took it remarkably well. I think she's getting used to me dragging home the occasional truck and pile of parts.

Wow! You ended up with quite a stash! It's hard to believe the number of NOS parts there...
Now, you need more projects to use everything up???

...D

I think I have enough trucks and trailers to use up most of these parts. I'll need to make an inventory of all of the seals and bearings. Lots of transmission kits, seals and bearings. I certainly can use those for sure. A lot of the NOS stuff is starting to dry up, so nice to get a stash.

The parts sure made for a worthwhile trip. Good looking truck.


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Yeah, his truck is looking good. Looking forward to see it running!

 

[zepher11]

Zeph that's an amazing haul - I'm 10x jealous of your NOS goodies.

Your buddy in SF did an interesting resto mod...that's not my cup of tea, but probably a LOT more capable truck than a GI WC22. Other than the oddball tires it looks really well done.

I'll PM you about your wife's jacket sewing.

Yeah, not sure why the super large tires. I didn't get into that. So stoked to have the NOS items. I was just about to start looking for taillights, so nice to score some wrapped in Cosmoline.

Very cool thread - there's more interesting stuff in here than most car forums I read.

Happy you have enjoyed it!

 

[XJSuperman]

Its very common for a restomod to have large offroad tires installed on the military vehicles with the large wheelwell openings. Adds a modern flare the same as an engine swap. Interco Iroc tires aren't my favorite, but are nevertheless a very common choice, along with other Interco tires like the TSL and SS Bogger. The M37 and M715 are the usual go-to platforms for this though due to their drivetrains and durability. Maybe he plans to do a little mudding or offroading? Even if not, everybody loves a "monster truck" to some degree, whether in action or shined up at a show.

I don't post up a lot here Zeph but your project is really coming along. Im excited to see you make your seats and covers. Its outside of my skills but not my interests. You can add me to the list of jealous and drooling people admiring your haul of parts from your friend. The fact that you can use nearly all of it is exciting just in the fact that each part already has a potential home.

 

[zepher11]

Its very common for a restomod to have large offroad tires installed on the military vehicles with the large wheelwell openings. Adds a modern flare the same as an engine swap. Interco Iroc tires aren't my favorite, but are nevertheless a very common choice, along with other Interco tires like the TSL and SS Bogger. The M37 and M715 are the usual go-to platforms for this though due to their drivetrains and durability. Maybe he plans to do a little mudding or offroading? Even if not, everybody loves a "monster truck" to some degree, whether in action or shined up at a show.

I don't post up a lot here Zeph but your project is really coming along. Im excited to see you make your seats and covers. Its outside of my skills but not my interests. You can add me to the list of jealous and drooling people admiring your haul of parts from your friend. The fact that you can use nearly all of it is exciting just in the fact that each part already has a potential home.

Appreciate the kind comments. Yes, I'm Looking forward to getting the seats completed. Started looking at those yesterday. I need to start cutting the wood for the seat bottoms and the seat backs. Then I can get to working over the foam to get those ready. That should help in getting proper measurements.

I think on the restomod that he believes he may do some four wheeling, but I doubt it. I think it would hold up pretty well if he did so, however. He'll probably just cruise it around town and look cool doing so.

It is nice to have a nice inventory of Dodge WC parts. In fact, I think I really do need to make an inventory. I should get a cheap computer to keep in the garage and make up some type of inventory system. That way I wouldn't be buying the same part and then finding that I had it already.

Thanks for stopping by!

 

[BORING HOP YARD]

Hey Zeph, just checking in to see if your doing ok with the wildfires.
Its been a real two bad days in Oregon and Washington with the heat, the high winds and the driest time of the year. They have issued "Go now" orders about 3 miles to the south of me. The fire would have to jump a large area of plowed fields to get to me.
I have a heavy covering of ponderosa pine needles on the grounds from the 40 mph winds. Smoke was very bad in the Portland area Monday.

 

[zepher11]

Hey Zeph, just checking in to see if your doing ok with the wildfires.
Its been a real two bad days in Oregon and Washington with the heat, the high winds and the driest time of the year. They have issued "Go now" orders about 3 miles to the south of me. The fire would have to jump a large area of plowed fields to get to me.
I have a heavy covering of ponderosa pine needles on the grounds from the 40 mph winds. Smoke was very bad in the Portland area Monday.

Yes, we are hanging in there. Heavy thick smoke covering our area for about three weeks now. Over the weekend it was 111 to 114 degrees depending on which gauge one follows. I worked outside in the shop. Seemed warm, but not too bad.

At this time, there are no immediate threats. Had a fire break out yesterday about a half mile from my house with the winds blowing about 40 miles per hour. They jumped on it and knocked it out. My next door neighbors loaded their horses and packed everything and left. I was at work... Then another fire broke out in Cottonwood and burned a few things, but they stopped that before the town went up thankfully.

I see the fires south of Medford near Phoenix and Talent, and that Interstate 5 was closed down for quite a while.

Needles are not good, but same thing here. The wind is brutal and the leaves and needles are everywhere in my yard this morning when I was out there working out in the garage.

Well, stay safe up there! It's incredibly crazy out there with all the fires. I see another big one near Oroville that is eating up some more homes. Sad!

All this and fire season is just starting...

 

[shortykorte]

I knew El Dorado County sounded familiar. Hope they get things contained. A lot people live in that area.


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[zepher11]

I knew El Dorado County sounded familiar. Hope they get things contained. A lot people live in that area.


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Seems like the whole state is on fire...plus neighboring states. We're going on about a month now I think of being socked in with smoke. Here's a photo I shot outside my office two days ago. Wasn't bad air quality wise at that time. Some odd inversion was going on which was nice, but the unhealthy air quality is now back now:

This is a shot from my office this morning looking East:

Quite thick out there now. I think the closest fire is about 25-30 miles away, but they are all around us. Makes working out in the shop this weekend a little sketchy.

 

[shortykorte]

Reminds me when they would burn the rice fields outside of Beale.


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