Buying Guide
Needle Selection and Care
What actually identifies a needle, and the handling habits that decide how long a set lasts.
Gauge alone does not identify a needle
Two machines of the same gauge from different builders can take different needles, because butt height and position have to match the cam track. Machine builder and model come before gauge in any needle enquiry.
What to quote when ordering
The reference on the old needle box, machine builder and model, gauge, and the position, cylinder or dial. A photo of the old needle beside a ruler showing the butt clearly resolves most remaining doubt.
Handling
Keep needles in their boxes until they go into the machine. Needles tipped loose into a tray get bent latches, and a bent latch is the most common cause of dropped stitches on a newly needled machine.
Storage
Dry and lightly oiled. Corrosion on a hook or a latch marks the yarn and will not polish out.
Full change against single replacement
Replace single needles to keep a machine running to the end of a shift. Plan full changes on a cycle, because a machine running a mix of new and long worn needles puts that difference into the fabric.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should the cylinder be cleaned at a needle change?
Yes. Fly and old oil pack into the tricks and stop the new needles from moving freely. Use a cleaner made for the machine gauge.
How long does a needle set last?
It depends on speed, yarn, lubrication and lint control, so mills set the interval from their own record of stops and second quality.
Apply This to Your Machine
Send the machine builder, model, diameter and gauge and we will tell you which parts to order.
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