Are you looking for simple solutions to sewing machine timing problem? Perhaps your sewing machine isn’t working properly, and you suspect a sewing machine timing issue. After all, this is the most common cause of a sewing machine malfunction in practically all models.
We’ll look at how to diagnose hook timing issues in this article. We’ll also look into procedures on how to fix sewing machine timing problem.
But first…
What is the Mechanism behind Sewing Machine Timing?
The relationship between the needle eye and hook tip is referred to as sewing machine timing or hook timing. Depending on the model of sewing machine, the timing mechanism may differ slightly. However, practically all sewing machines follow this basic principle.
Your needle moves up and down continuously while you use your sewing machine. As it rises, a loop forms between the fabric and the needle eye. To make a stitch, your hook tip should go through this loop.
You’ll even obtain stitches in your clothes if the timing is precise. Any faults with the needle eye, hook tip, or both, on the other hand, can throw the machine’s usual operations off and produce sewing machine timing errors.
Rotation of Hooks
Hook rotation is crucial for proper hook timing. When your needle is ascending, you must decide which way your hook rotates.
The majority of oscillating hooks rotate clockwise. As a result, you should move the needle to the extreme right. Other hooks may rotate in the opposite direction. The needle position should be moved to the extreme left in this scenario.
When we get to the actual time diagnosis section, you’ll appreciate hook rotation even more.
Sewing Machine Timing Problem Diagnosis
Let’s perform a needle and hook tip timing test:
1. Remove the needle plate, bobbin case, and base cover(s) from the machine. Maintain the threading of the needle.
2. Turn the hand wheel slowly. Check to see if your shuttle hook catches the thread easily. If the shuttle hook does not catch your thread smoothly, there is a timing issue.
3. Check the hook rotation direction and how your hook passes through the needle’s eye. To do so, slowly crank the hand wheel until the needle is at its lowest point. Then, by about 3/32 of an inch, elevate it (approximately 2.4 mm). For more precision, use a ruler or tape measure.
4. Maintain that position and look to see if the hook landed right above the eye. If the following occurs:
- The hook enters the needle eye from below or through it.
- When the eye meets the hook’s radius, the hook extends more than 2.2mm above the needle eye.
Now let’s get into the centerpiece of this article!
Step by Step Procedure on how to Fix Sewing Machine Timing Problem
1. Gather the necessary items, such as:
- Bright light or flashlight
- Screwdrivers with little flatheads
- Sewing machine oil
- Tape measure or ruler
2. Switch your machine to straight stitch mode. Make sure your needle is in the middle of the switch plate hole, where it can descend to the center.
3. Remove the needle bar cover, bobbin, base cover, and switch plate.
4. Set your needle bar’s height. You can loosen your needle bar by consulting your machine’s manual. Loosen the needle bar and slide it up or down to the appropriate height marks.
5. Turn the hand wheel until the needle reaches its lowest point if your needle bar does not have height marks. Then, from the lowest position, elevate the needle 2.4mm. Make the appropriate needle bar adjustments so that the needle’s eye is 2.4mm below the hook point.
6. Turn the hand wheel slowly until the needle returns to its lowest point. Then, 2.2mm above its lowest point, lift it slightly again. Determine the exact height with your ruler or tape measure.
7. Loosen the pulleys or belt gear. This is where your flathead screwdriver comes in handy.
8. Turn your hook in the same direction as the machine when it’s running. Carry out this task by hand. Keep in mind that the needle and top shaft should remain stationary.
9. Keep an eye on the movement of the hook as you turn it by hand. As soon as the hook point is directly behind your needle, tighten all the gears.
10. Repeat the timing exercise. Keep in mind that the bobbin area must remain accessible. Also, if you remove the thread while working on the timing, thread your needle again. Check if the shuttle hook now catches the thread smoothly every time you turn the hand wheel. If so, your sewing machine’s time has been corrected!
11. While not all of the covers have been replaced, clean the exposed elements of your sewing machine. After that, lubricate any parts that require it using sewing machine oil. These parts should be found in your user manual.
12. Replace the covers and tighten all screws to reassemble your machine. Also, return the switch plate.
13. After reassembling your sewing machine, sew a piece of cloth to test the timing. There should be no skipped stitches or needles that are damaged.
Is Your Sewing Machine Timing Still Off?
Here’s what you should do if your sewing machine’s timing problem persists after you’ve followed all of the above steps. Wouldn’t you feel disappointed after wasting so much time?
Redo the procedure carefully: when raising your needle from its lowest position to a 2.4mm height, be sure that the height is exact. This way, you can re-adjust the hook to the needle with confidence, increasing your chances of fixing your machine’s timing properly.
However, if the problem persists despite your best efforts to fix the timing, consider taking your sewing machine to a professional.
And that’s how to fix your sewing machine timing problem!
The procedure may appear complex and perplexing at first, but it is actually fairly simple. You simply need to pay attention to needle shaft height precision to efficiently re-time your sewing machine on your own.
