Garter Carriage
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Overview[edit]
The Brother Garter Carriage (also known as a G-Carriage, Omni Carriage, or Chariot-G) is an advanced accessory for Brother knitting machines that automates the creation of garter stitch fabric. Unlike the main carriage, which typically only knits in one direction or creates stockinette, the Garter Carriage is designed to knit and purl stitches in the same row, producing true garter stitch automatically. This accessory operates independently once programmed and plugged in, significantly expanding the capabilities of compatible machines[1].
Models[edit]
Brother produced several models of the Garter Carriage, primarily for standard gauge machines:
The KG-95 is noted as the latest model released by Brother. The KG-93 and KG-95 models are functionally identical, though the KG-95 manual provides more detailed instructions for use with electronic knitting machines. KG-95 carriages were released for both Western and Japanese markets, with some units featuring only Japanese writing[1].
Features and Capabilities[edit]
The Brother Garter Carriage offers several advantages for machine knitters:
- Automates the creation of garter stitch by knitting and purling in the same row[1].
- Can be adapted for two-color knitting or plating techniques[1].
- Capable of knitting yarns slightly thicker than what the standard gauge machine's main carriage might typically handle[1].
- Includes automatic cast-on and cast-off options[1].
Compatibility[edit]
Brother Garter Carriages are designed for use with standard gauge knitting machines[1].
- They are compatible with almost all electronic Brother and Knitking knitting machines, with the notable exception of the Brother KH-910[1].
- They also work with certain punchcard knitting machines, specifically models KH864 and above[1].
- Machines equipped with built-in garter carriage rails are generally compatible, even if not explicitly listed as an automatic option for that model (e.g., some Brother KH-860 machines)[1].
- These carriages do not fit earlier models of punchcard knitting machines[1].
Operation and Maintenance[edit]
Garter carriages are known to be temperamental and require diligent maintenance to function correctly[1].
- Regular cleaning after each use is essential.
- Proper oiling is crucial for smooth operation.
- Careful yarn selection is necessary to prevent issues[1].
Cast-On Procedure (KG-88)[edit]
To perform a cast-on with the Brother KG-88 garter carriage[2]:
- Hang the cast-on comb approximately 5 cm below the needles.
- Hang a stitch on the gate peg by pulling the yarn.
- Pick up the under stitches of both end stitches and hang them onto the gate pegs.
- Ensure the yarn is threaded through the yarn guide and claw weights are attached.
- Set the card lock lever at the "V" mark.
- Place the G-Carriage on the right-hand side before starting.
Accessories and Parts[edit]
Various parts and accessories are available for Brother Garter Carriages[3]:
- Power Supply: The AG-89 power supply is commonly used, even for the KG-95 model. Specific power supplies for Brother KH930/930e machines can also be used with KG-95 carriages[1].
- Garter Carriage Needles: Specialized needles are required for the G-Carriage.
- Turn Around Cams: These are compatible with all standard gauge beds and all G-Carriage models from KH-830 through KH-970.
- Motor: Part #XE4418101 is the main motor for KG-88, KG-89, KG-93, and KG-95 models.
- Tension Unit Mast Cap: A component of the yarn tensioning system.
- Racks: Sets of three racks are available.
- Main Control Board: The electronic control unit for the carriage.
- KnitLeader Trippers: Tripper 'A' and Tripper 'B' are used with the KnitLeader accessory.
- Row Counter Tripper: Used for automatic row counting.
- Hinged Lower Cover: A protective component for the carriage.