Brother JX2517
The Brother JX2517 was a lightweight, entry-level mechanical machine sold primarily at big-box stores in the mid-2010s, often for less than $100. It features 17 built-in stitches (mostly length/width variations), an LED work light, and uses a convenient drop-in Class 15 bobbin.
The bobbin area of the Brother JX2517 is covered by a plastic and metal throat plate, the bobbin case is plastic with metal tension springs, and the hook carrier and hook are made of hard plastic.
Inside the plastic shell
The machine has a metal skeleton, and the drive train is a mix of metal and plastic parts. The machine does use a timing belt that drives both the hook and feed dogs. The motor is marked 110-120V~ 60Hz 60W 0.55A 6000rpm.
Tensioner
The client had mentioned the need to set the tension higher than expected to achieve a good blind stitch. I adjusted the bobbin tension, but it still required an upper tension of 7 or 8. After finding the tensioner wasn’t zeroed properly (0-3 had no tension), I pulled the tensioner to see if I could make adjustments. The short answer is no, you can’t adjust the zero on this tensioner.
I didn’t take the tensioner apart since I could see the discs were clean and rust free without doing so. I did find one video of someone taking a similar tensioner apart and as far as I can tell it’s accurate, but I didn’t actually try, so proceed at your own risk.
Test stitch
Top – Black
Bottom – Red
Specifications
| Brand | Brother |
| Model | JX2517 |
| Made In | Vietnam |
| Years Produced | Approximately 2013-2020 |
| Hook Type | Rotary |
| Bobbin | Class 15 |
| Bobbin Case | Internal plastic |
| Needle System | 15×1 |
| Foot Type | Low Shank |
| Construction | Metal and Plastic |
| Construction Drivetrain | Metal and Plastic |
