Here's a picture of a bobbin winder clutch. It's on the hand wheel of this old Kenmore. First, loosen the small screw on the center knob. You don't have to take it all the way out, just loosen it. Then twist the center knob to the left (righty-tighty, lefty-loosey) until it comes off. This is a picture of what you'll see under the knob. Can you see the metal ring that's sitting on the center shaft? Remove it.
You may need to take the top lid and/or the side panel off to allow the hand wheel to move in and out. If you're not sure you can get the belt back on correctly, you don't need to take the belt off, just loosen the outer panels so you can move the hand wheel on it's shaft, like this...
Can you see how the center shaft has moved back inside, as I push the handwheel out? Use some "solvent" (WD-40) to remove the old, gummy oil on the shaft. Squirt it inside the hole and work the handwheel around until the gum is dissolved. Then wipe out as much of the solvent as you can. If you have a can of air, you can blow it out -- we use an air compressor at the shop. Also use the solvent to wipe the old oil off of the metal ring and center knob.
Put 2 drops of oil on the shaft and put the machine back together.
The metal ring under the knob will have 2 or 3 raised nubs on the inside.
The raised side of the nubs should be facing outward. Put the ring in place, with the nubs in the slots on the shaft. (Take a closer look at the second picture above.) Then screw the center knob back on and tighten the little screw. You should be able to release and re-tighten the center knob. If not, remove the center knob and re-position the metal ring. Turn the ring clock-wise one position (or two). Screw the center knob back on and tighten the little screw.
That should take care of it!
I neglected to mention that the bobbin winder spindle can become frozen as well. Here's a couple pictures of a Singer bobbin winder.
If it's hard to turn the top spindle by hand, it's probably frozen-up by old oil. If it's frozen, you can try two things. First, I usually put some WD-40 in the cracks (top and bottom) and work it until it's loose. Always blow the WD-40 out with an air compressor or canned air. Then re-oil. If that fails, you can disassemble the bobbin winder, clean it, and put some oil on the shaft directly. Then put it back together.
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ReplyDeleteI have a singer about 7 yrs, old and the bobbin winder makes the noise, but will not wind. I have checked all I know to check, the winder just does not kick in when pushed to the far right. What do I do? Thank you for any help you can give me.
ReplyDeleteOn most bobbin winders, there’s a rubber o-ring. It could be that the rubber has dried out, and you need a new o-ring. They’re about $1. Or the shaft could be frozen. Can you turn the shaft with your fingers? If it’s hard to turn the shaft, you can squirt a little WD-40 on it and work it with your fingers until it loosens up. There’s a few other things it could be, like the bobbin winder clutch or a belt that’s slipping.
ReplyDeleteThanks - you helped us fix our bobbin winder on an old 70's Montgomery Ward Sewing machine.
DeleteI have the same problem. Going to try this when I get home.
DeleteI think my white 954 sewing machine needs a new O ring because it is worn away and dried off, where could I find a new one? I've tried Google searching and can only find manuals not any parts for sale.
ReplyDeleteIf you can get the old o-ring off the machine, take it to your local Ace or True Value hardware store. Hardware stores often carry a wide assortment of rubber washers and o-rings in the plumbing department for repairing faucets and valves. Try to select a standard replacement o-ring with the same inner diameter as the old, but perhaps a little "fatter" on the outside to compensate for the old one having gotten worn down. If you're lucky to find what you need in the hardware store, you'll save yourself lots of time and money compared to getting it from a sewing machine repair parts source.
DeleteA typical B-W ring from a sewing machine store is about $2. I'm guessing you'll spend multiples of that in gas trying to find one at a hardware store.
Deleteso where would the bobbin winder clutch be on a singer touch n sew 626 or does it have one? i'm trying to figure out why my bobbin won't wind too.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteAnnette - thanks for sharing your expertise! My old Kenmore (like the one you use in this example) wouldn't wind a bobbin, so I followed your instructions and gave it some WD-40. I must have put something back together wrong, because now when I push down on the pedal, nothing happens-- no noise, no movement, nothing. Any chance you could point me towards my mistake?
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteI followed the instructions to fix Bobbin Winder Clutch, now the Hand Wheel (White Machine) doesn't work. It turns, but the needle doesn't move. Can't figure out what I did or didn't do. Any ideas? Thank you
ReplyDeleteThe ring is probably on backwards. When you remove the center knob, there’s a ring underneath it. You can see it in the picture. When it goes back on, the little posts in the middle should protrude outward. When you put the center knob back on, and tighten the little screw, then the knob should work to release and tighten the clutch. If it doesn’t do that, you need to go back in, and turn the ring one position, clockwise or counter clockwise. Put the knob back on, and tighten the screw. Then it should work.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your prompt reply. The ring kept slipping out of place, I didn't realize it at the time, so I got a toothpick & held it in place while I screwed the knob in. All's well. Again, thank you.
ReplyDeleteI have a singer about 7 yrs, old and the bobbin winder works when pushed to the far right but the needle doesn't disengage. My machine is Singer Futura ce-200. The hand wheel has inner and outer wheel but they are flush (you cannot grab anything) and the center piece only has a dot on it, doesn't push in to disengage needle like my old singer machine. When starting the machine the bobbin winder runs but in a minute the machine beeps, flashes lights, and temporarily stops running since the machine senses an operation error because the needle is moving too. The needle just does not disengage when bobbin winder is pushed to the far right. What do I do? Thank you for any help you can give me.
ReplyDeleteWhen it involves electronics, you need to take your machine to a Singer dealer. Nobody else can get access to the circuit board parts or information. I’m sorry I can’t help you with this one. I hope you have a Singer dealer nearby.
ReplyDeleteThis helped so much! After opening the end of the machine, all that was needed was a drop of oil on the bobbin threader turn thing. Now it works like a dream! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI have an old New Home 691 sewing machine. It was working last time when I used it. But when I unplug a lamp that shared the same socket board with the sewing machine, I saw a spark in the lamp plug. The fuse was broken. So I changed the fuse, the lamp was back to work. However, my sewing machine stopped working since that incident. The hand wheel was frozen. I used the method you introduced above, it freed the hand wheel. I can see the motor is in working order and can wind a bobbin. But the shaft is still frozen. What shall I do now? Can you please give me some advice? Many thanks in advance!
ReplyDeleteIn many instances, the old mechanical machines will freeze-up because of old, gummed-up oil. The best way to get it running again, is to spray all of the internal mechanical parts with WD-40. That includes the take-up area, both ends of each shaft, and wherever metal rubs on metal, in the top and bottom. Then work it in by trying to move the parts. If you can’t turn the handwheel forward, try to turn it backward. This takes some time. I had an old Kenmore that was froze-up on Saturday, and it took a lot of WD-40 and I worked the handwheel for about 5 minutes before I got it to break loose. Here’s a link to my blog post about using WD-40 on sewing machines. http://shesasewingmachinemechanic.blogspot.com/
ReplyDeleteThe important thing is that you need to be able to remove the WD-40. The best way is to use an air compressor and flannel rags. If you don’t have an air compressor, you may know someone who does, or you can use a new can of canned air.
Thanks you so much for this article. I spent almost 3 days trying to find info on how to fix my bobbin winder as it wouldn't let the machine stop sewing. My singer stylist 776 is almost 40 yrs old but still works well. Your pics & explanation were very easy to follow. I was afraid we would have to take machine in to be repaired. Our closest repair place is over 3 1/2 hour drive away. thanks again.
ReplyDeleteCharmaine
Charmaine, I have the same machine, same age, and same problem! I took it apart today but had no idea what to do. This article looks like it will help. Did your machine look similar to these pictures? I am also wondering about the ring- if that is what is at the bottom of the stem that holds the bobbin, then I am pretty sure I need one. I couldn't tell if it was old dried out rubber or ceramic! Thanks for posting your success- it gives me encouragement!
DeleteHi I have a kenmore 14001 and same with the others the the hand wheel is hard to move. It does move some but not enough to free the needle to move. Which sight should I go to for instructions I have it off the bottom and ready to get it loose! Thanks
DeleteHi Lee Ann,
ReplyDeleteI hope you are able to get your bobbin winder cleaned and running smoothly.
There's a small rubber o-ring at the base of the bobbin winder post. If that is worn out or cracked, it will need to be replaced. The o-ring is usually less than $1.00, and that's something you can fix yourself.
Thanks!
DeleteI have a Singer 57825C. The bobbin clutch trips every 4-12 stitches making it impossible to continue. Can you talk me through how to repair? I am very good repairing my chain saw, just not so much with a sewing machine. Thank you
ReplyDeleteHi Lori,
ReplyDeleteI've created a post to show you how to work with your Singer bobbin winder and clutch. There are several models that use this type of bobbin winder clutch. http://shesasewingmachinemechanic.blogspot.com/2015/11/singer-bobbin-winder-clutch-model-30920.html
Thank you so much for this. We inherited an old Hobby 721 from my mother and could not get the bobbin winder to work. Having never worked on a sewing machine I had no idea where to start. Thanks to you its working fine now.
ReplyDeleteThat's great to hear!
DeleteHappy Sewing!
Hi, I am wanting to try this on our Singer model 6423, but there's no screw in the bobbin winder clutch, so can't figure out how to get past that part. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Have not been able to get top of case removed either, and have reached the limits of my 'safe tinkering' comfort zone.
ReplyDeleteHi Derek,
DeleteThese new Singers aren’t made very consumer friendly, and they are pretty hard to get inside of. There doesn’t seem to be a clutch on the outside of this particular handwheel. I can’t get a good picture of the handwheel side of the machine, but it looks a lot like a Bernette, with the stitch selector knob underneath the handwheel. If it’s anything like the Bernette, you can just pop the plastic handwheel off with your hand. Then the screw under that cover is how you get to the clutch. Sometimes the grease they put on the big spring inside there, turns into a waxy substance that sticks everything together. If you can get inside there, and remove the waxy stuff with WD-40, that should take care of the problem. Be sure to pay attention to how all of the pieces go back together. Also notice the little switch at the top that engages the clutch, and make sure it’s doing what it should. Be sure to remove all the WD-40, then re-oil with a clear sewing machine oil.
Oh, I forgot to say to clean the shaft while you're in there.
I wasn't able to pry off the handwheel with both hands and felt like going for the Visegrips was probably a poor plan... Going to book some time with a local pro this week :)
ReplyDeleteThat's probably a good idea.
DeleteWow, this looks like a helpful place...
ReplyDeleteAh... Hi. I don't use my sewing machine very much, and am pretty new with it.
I am frustrated because although my model is supposed to decouple the bobbin winder from the rest of the machine by twisting the bobbin clutch... it's stuck. I can twist and twist like I'm trying to open a pickle jar, but even after taking that little screw out, I cannot get the clutch off the hand wheel. It's like they're fused together. I know I have succeeded in this before with this machine, but it isn't working now.
Is there anything I can do at home, or do I need to bring it in to the shop for repair? =/ It's a pretty long trip, and I'd rather not if I don't have to.
What happens is that the old oil on the shaft turns into glue and locks the handwheel onto the shaft. I use WD-40 to dissolve the old oil. Here’s a link to using WD-40 on your sewing machine. http://shesasewingmachinemechanic.blogspot.com/2014/12/using-wd-40-on-sewing-machines.html And here’s a link for getting a stuck –on handwheel off. http://shesasewingmachinemechanic.blogspot.com/2013/04/the-wrong-oil.html I hope this helps.
ReplyDeleteI gone through your blog. Its really good.very useful information..Thanks for sharing this.see my products also Capacitor Winding Machine
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your blog! I was able to release the clutch, disassemble my bobbin winder, clean, and oil it and make it go from 'won't budge' to 'I can turn it if I grip it with a tool without having to exert too much force'. Unfortunately it still won't function in the machine though. When I put it in place the rubber tire will turn (and it will smell a bit like burning rubber) but the winder itself simply won't move. Is it worth trying to lube and turn it more to see if I can get the darn thing to wind or is it just possibly as unstuck as it will get? (I used WD-40, then compressed air, then oiled it, let it sit for 20 minutes, turned it back and forth with a tool, then repeated that process twice more to get the lube all up in it). Thank you!
ReplyDelete
ReplyDeleteSounds like you gave it a great try. Sometimes the shaft gets bent, and no amount of cleaning and oiling will make a difference. I’ll bet you could find a replacement bobbin winder that wouldn’t cost very much. Just type your machine model into ebay and see what you can find.
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ReplyDeleteOMG! THANK YOU for stating that the raised side of the nubs on the metal ring should be facing outward!! I swear, I want to kiss you for that! I must have screwed and unscrewed the darn thing for a half an hour, and couldn't figure out why it wasn't working properly because it seems as though they should face inward. YAY! Thank God for the internet, and thank YOU!!
ReplyDeleteHi, Do you have any experience with Husqvarna Mega Quilters? Its been working fine but tonight a had just started to sew when bobbin ran out after minute or two. I went to redo the bobbin but when I pressed the button it wouldn't go. Turned it off and on and still nothing. Any thoughts? thanks, Brooke
ReplyDeleteThanks...got my 158 xxxxx bobin to wind again!
ReplyDeleteDR
You are my new best friend! Thank you so much! Worked perfectly!
ReplyDeleteHi, I have a Singer 4562 with a broken bobbin winder stopper. I just can't find the right one. Any suggestions? Thanks
ReplyDeleteExactly like someone posted before... Thank You for stating that the raised side of the nubs on the metal ring should be facing outward!! We turned that know for a while in both directions and also took the top off thinking that the belts had slipped or had broken - nope, someone put that metal ring on backwards with the tabs facing in. Flipped it around and machine works fine.
ReplyDeleteGreat info here - thanks again!
I did all of the above and I still can't move the wheel by hand or with the pedal. The machine is permanently in bobbin winder mode. Any ideas?
ReplyDeleteHello, so pleased to have found this blogger hopefully help will be at hand.
ReplyDeleteI have been given a much used Elna SU sewing machine, stitches etc seem fine, however I cannot wind the thread on the bobbin.
I have disengaged the needle clicked over the bobbin but the spindle is not turning although I can hear a whirring sound. I have been quoted £47 for an overhaul plus any parts. It will be a joint effort with my husband but we are pretty handy with a screwdriver and WD40!!
I need to wiegh up cost versus age of the machine, but from what I have read of this make it seems a pretty sturdy machine.
Also I only have one spool with this machine although I have plenty of spare spools but not from this model. The bottom of the Elna spool is plain whereas the others have the holes around the top and bottom. Will these be compatible with the Elna?
All info appreciated.
Thanks Fran
Hi Fran. I sent you a private email. Maybe it went to your junk mail. Here's a copy of my email...
DeleteI sure hope you are able to save the money and fix the bobbin winder yourself. Make sure the spindle is spinning freely. Use the WD-40 if it’s frozen. And make sure the rubber ring is soft and rubbery. Those are easy to replace, if needed.
The bobbins need to fit your machine. It doesn’t matter if there are holes or not. They need to be the right height and width. If they’re too tall, they bind up, and the machine won’t sew. If they’re too wide, they won’t fit into the bobbin case.
Good Luck!
I was wondering if you know the size of the screw that goes in the clutch knob not sure how I lost mine but I cant find a replacement number anywhere, Thanks
ReplyDeleteI have a Kenmore Model 12121 looks just like the picture above
DeleteHopefully someone will get back to you Bree. I posted just before you 15 July but still no joy. To be honest I ordered a new sewing machine earlier today, good luck with finding the correct screw.
DeleteRegards
Fran (UK)
I just got home from work and saw your question.
DeleteIf Brewer Sewing Supply doesn’t have the part, I can’t find you a part number. And they don’t list that particular screw. You could probably find it on the Sears/Kenmore website, and order it directly from them.
Let me tell you how we get you a new screw at the shop. Bring your machine to your local sewing machine repair shop, and they’ll look in their loose screws and find something that looks right, and try a few until they find one that will fit. I know... it’s not very scientific. But that’s the way we do it.
Good Luck in your search!
Thanks
DeleteHello thank you for your email I guess the first on must have gone in junk.I have now purchased a new all singing all dancing sewing machine just awaiting delivery. Family contributions towards an early birthday present. I have put the Elna SU on EBay a project for someone with patience. Once again thank you for taking the time for posting all your info.
ReplyDeleteKindest Regards
Fran (UK)
Love your blog. Found you while I was trying to fix the bobbin winder on my garage sale 1601 Sears Kenmore. You showed me just what I needed to do. Got it fixed thanks to you.
ReplyDeleteLove your blog. Found you while I was trying to fix the bobbin winder on my garage sale 1601 Sears Kenmore. You showed me just what I needed to do. Got it fixed thanks to you.
ReplyDeleteThis was so helpful. Thanks so much.
ReplyDeleteHello, Annette. I have a problem with my vintage singer. In order to get working the mechanism of stop motion, I can't make the handwheel turn because the shaft is stuck. It's like they were melt in a single piece. Of course, I've removed the little screw and the rounded piece that holds the handwheel. I've applied warm with a hairdryer but doesn't work. Do you know any way to take it out? I don't want to make any rough movements to avoid damaging the machine. Thank you so much for your blog. Best regards.
ReplyDeleteHi Pep,
ReplyDeleteWD-40 always helps, in combination with a hair dryer. Here’s a post about how I got a difficult hand wheel off. http://shesasewingmachinemechanic.blogspot.com/2013/04/the-wrong-oil.html We did end up using force and hitting it with a hammer. But we hit it from the inside, and placed the screwdriver on the metal part of the hand wheel.
I hope you’re able to get your machine working.
I have an older singer and the bobbin only fills 1/2 way. Any suggestions?
ReplyDeleteMost bobbin winders have a “stop.” Here’s a link to a picture of a bobbin winder with its “stop.” https://itp.nyu.edu/archive/physcomp-spring2014/Tutorials/BrotherNS40 As you can see, there’s a screw in the top of the stop. If you loosen the screw, you can turn the stop so it goes further away from the bobbin winding spindle. Then re-tighten the screw.
ReplyDeleteIf your machine has a different bobbin winding system, tell me what machine you have, and I can give you an answer more specifically for your machine.
PS: There's a good picture on this page of a bobbin winder stop. It also has a screw to loosen. Adjust the stop farther away from the spindle to let it fill more. Or adjust the stop closer so it doesn't over-fill the bobbin.
ReplyDeleteHi Annette.I have a problem with my machine, I have a Singer 4432 and after using the bobbin winder I toggled it to the left to continue sewing. The needle wont go up and down when I press the pedal. I am able to turn the hand wheel and nothing seems to be locked up inside the machine. I have tried toggling the bobbin winder shaft left and right it the hopes that something inside might not be catching but with no luck. Hope you can help me. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteHi guys,
ReplyDeletedoes anyone know if the Pfaff 30 is meant to have a drive belt underneath like the 130 model.?
Hi Barry,
ReplyDeleteI wish I had one in front of me to check. I did look up “Pfaff 130 parts diagram” and “Pfaff 30 parts diagram” on Google images, and they both have the same chain belt to drive the hook driver shaft. So, they both have that chain belt. But it’s not strictly underneath, it comes from the handwheel, down to the driver shaft.
Hi Annette,
ReplyDeleteI bought a used Kenmore 1603, and was trying it out with a new needle and fresh thread. It seemed to be running fine, and I was adjusting the tension according to the manual. Seemed like I had it right but was trying to get the zigzag stitch right, and it occurred to me that I should probably use the same thread in the bobbin as the top thread, so I wound a bobbin with the same. The bobbin winder stopped before the bobbin was quite full - maybe 3/4 full. Then when I tried to sew, the needle wouldn't engage any more. Looking at the picture in the manual, I saw that the bobbin winder reset button was supposed to be "down" and it stayed up after I pushed it. I found that if I held the button down with my finger, the machine would sew. Obviously I can't hold it down whenever I sew. Would this be a problem with the bobbin clutch? It seems a little different from the other bobbin clutch problems - more with the reset button. Have you any ideas what I should do? Thanks!
Hi! I'm a relatively new sewer with some experience working in the costume department at my old college. I just bought myself a new heavy duty singer sewing machine and was working with it for 20 minutes fairly successfully until I lost the threading with my bobbin. I threaded and re threaded and re re re threaded for another 10 minutes, testing each time with the thread coming loose. Finally I took the bobbin out and re threaded AGAIN (a little frustrated by now) and tried practicing on a piece of scrap paper. Now as I said I'm fairly new to sewing so I don't know the proper terms for this so please bear with me. But when I practiced on the scrap paper I heard a snapping sound and when I stopped the machine I noticed a large clump of thread. After cutting most of the knot out I realized something was wonky: the "home" for my bobbin spool had rotated a full 90 degrees counterclockwise. I couldn't believe it at first, and even tried pushing the "home" back to its original position, to no avail. Now my needle is jammed and I'm stuck with a $100 block of plastic. If it helps for reference at all I had to jimmy the bobbin out on like a 45 degree angle due to the rotation, and all the thread is out of the machine. Any ideas what I did and how to fix it? Thanks
ReplyDeleteHi Monika,
ReplyDeleteThe best thing you can do with that sewing machine is to take it back to where you got it and get your money back. I don’t know how they can get away with calling that machine, “heavy duty.” Anything with a drop-in plastic bobbin case will not sew heavy fabrics without the bobbin case jamming. We see it all the time at the shop.
To correct the problem you’ve got with your machine, you remove the needle plate, put the bobbin case back in position, then screw the needle plate back on. The plastic bobbin case will probably have burrs and scratches and maybe even holes where the needle has gone through it. You can polish those off with a very fine sandpaper (about 400-500 grit). If it gets too scarred up, it has to be replaced.
If you need an inexpensive sewing machine that will hold up a little better, try the Singer Simple. It has a metal hook and bobbin case, and you can use the Singer class 15 metal bobbins. Or go to your local thrift shop and get a vintage Kenmore. I usually can find them for $25 or less.
Take that machine back and put your money on a different machine!
Thank you for that clear explanation. I have a Kenmore 158 13400 mechanical machine. The handwheel moves fine when I step on the pedal, but the crankshaft does not move and neither does anything else in the machine. Is this something I can fix myself, or do I have to bring it to the repair shop?
ReplyDeleteThank you
Aaron
Hi Aaron,
ReplyDeleteThere’s a few things you could check.
--First, remove the hook. Sometimes it gets jammed.
--Second, tighten the center handwheel knob. If it doesn’t tighten, the ring inside is on wrong.
--Third, check the belt. Take off the right side of the machine and see if the belt is too loose or is falling apart. Replace the belt or loosen the motor mount and adjust tightness.
--Fourth, does the center belt pulley move freely? Check by trying to move it by hand. That pulley frequently freezes-up. WD-40 on the center axle will fix that.
--Fifth has the whole machine frozen-up? Generously apply WD-40 to all shafts, joints and eccentrics. Check my blog for how to use WD-40 on your sewing machine.
Let me know how you’re doing with your machine.
Hi, I leaped before looking... How do you put the bobbin winding assembly back together? I have a Singer 4562, which looks a lot like the picture of your machine above. I took the top of the case off, and in doing so, took apart the brake for the bobbin winding assembly. How does the inside of the machine look when it's back together correctly?
ReplyDeleteI just took a picture and posted it on the front page of my blog. Here’s the link. http://shesasewingmachinemechanic.blogspot.com/
DeleteLet me know if you need any more help.
Thank you so much! I got my bobbin winder working again!! I sure appreciate your help.
ReplyDeleteThis was very helpful. I now carry this tutorial on my iPad. Thank you so much for writing this and sharing.
ReplyDeleteNever use WD40 on sewing machines!!! Use Triflo or Singer Sewing Machine oil.
ReplyDeleteHello,
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to tell you that we use WD-40 every day at the shop. In 30 years, we have not seen any problems with using it.
I just put a new motor on an antique singer my grandmothers and when it goes fast so away the Bobben clutch listens and I've been on able to keep it tight is there an adjustment I can make
ReplyDeleteHi Jeri,
ReplyDeleteOn the clutch, there’s a ring under the center knob. It needs to be turned to a different position. The bumps should protrude outward. Sometimes the “loose” position is pretty close, but it should still be able to wind the bobbin without the needle going up and down.
Hi!
ReplyDeleteI was looking at this post hoping it would help my very-new-to-sewing-please-don't-judge self. I have a Kenmore Zig Zag 1753 (very similar to the pics in the article) that I just recently had serviced/refurbished and it has been so great. I haven't actually done that many projects yet, but already the clutch knob is completely stuck. (I am literally using the instructions manual diagram to describe the problem so I hope I'm naming the correct parts.) I went to start a new bobbin (my 5th since getting the machine) and absolutely could not get the chrome knob to release from the hand wheel. I tried taking off the top and adding the WD40. I removed the screw in the clutch knob, but it will not come off or even budge. I so hope you can help! I was gifted this machine and love it so much! Thanks for any advice!!!!
Hi Glam,
ReplyDeleteWhen I have a really stuck clutch knob, I brace the front end of the machine against the counter, put on my rubber mechanic gloves and give it all I have (got them at Lowe’s for $10 -- they’re in with the garden gloves). If that doesn’t work, I get out my strap wrenches. Strap one onto the big knob and the other to the small knob and crank hard. Remember… “righty-tighty, lefty-loosey.” If that doesn’t work… I ask The Boss to help me. He’s a farmer with hands that are 4 times bigger and 4 times stronger than mine.
Good Luck to you!
Hi,
ReplyDeleteMy needle and the bobbin below are not working together. the needle does nkt catch the thread below make it impossible to sew. Does it got to do with the winder?
Thanks in advanced.
Nur
Hi Nur,
ReplyDeleteWhen the needle and bobbin don't work together, the timing is off. First make sure the needle is in correctly. Usually, the flat side of the needle faces towards the back, and make sure it is pushed all the way up. Be sure you are using the correct needle. Most domestic machines take a 130/705H configuration.
If correcting the needle doesn't work, the timing is off and you'll need to take it to the shop.
I Have a WHITE sewing Machine The bobbin seems dried out How can I take the ring off
ReplyDeleteI Have a WHITE sewing Machine The bobbin seems dried out How can I take the ring off
ReplyDeleteYes, the bobbin winder tire comes off and can usually be replaced for less than $1.
ReplyDeleteFor all those having problems with winding your bobbins even though the clutch is disengaged. Take the lid off. If bobbin tire is fine with no cracks, then your problem might be that the tire is touching the wheel. Adjust your bobbin holder so that the tire is having contact with the wheel. I pushed mines back ever so slighty. Was finely able to thread my bobbins.
ReplyDeleteMy bobbin wasn't winding so we tried everything above, to no avail. Tried this, and it worked. Thanks
DeleteThanks so much!! Turns out I had taken out the screw and forgotten to put it back! So the ring slipped out.
ReplyDeleteHi
ReplyDeleteI have acquired a Pfaff 1196. Its bobbin winding clutch keeps on getting loose. I tighten it with a screw and after some sewing it slips again.
I opened it and I don't know how to put it back and what precisely is wrong with its inner working.It's all plastic from inside.
I can't take it to a repair shop because Pfaff or any European sewing machine is a novelty in my country and most shops know only to repair hand crank machines.
Any idea how to put it back or what could be the problem.
I can move the shaft with my fingers but the handwheel is not moving the shaft.
Please help.
Hi Mary June,
ReplyDeleteI’ve done a few of those Pfaff clutches. My first thought is that the grease they put inside has turned to wax and has frozen up. You can remove it with WD-40 or dish soap. Then replace it with Tri-Flow grease or automotive grease. My second thought is, If it won’t stay tight, It may have a part that’s broken. My third thought is that the spring isn’t in correctly.
I’ve got a Pfaff like yours here at the house. If I can find the time, I can take the clutch apart and send you some pictures.
Hi Mary June,
ReplyDeleteI've got a new post with loads of pictures on a new post. Here's a link... http://shesasewingmachinemechanic.blogspot.com/2017/09/pfaff-bobbin-winder-clutch.html
I hope you're able to get your machine going again.
Thank you! With this information, I was able to fix my old Omega machine myself instead of calling in my husband to do it for me. That’s a first! I’m rather proud of myself!
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteYou can do it! That’s Great!
ReplyDeleteHi
ReplyDeleteI just got started learning (at least being taught) how to use a sewing machine!
The Singer Fashion Mate 362 that I've been lent to learn on has a frozen bobbin winder (B-W) spindle.
I removed the B-W mechanism from the machine, and then I sprayed the mechanism (still assembled) with WD40, and then I left it for a few minutes. It remained frozen solid.
I don't see how to disassemble the BW mechanism. So next I tried driving the spindle out of its bushing, with hammer blows that I applied to the top of the spindle. That was a big mistake, as the force of the hammer blows bent the metal arm (the arm that you move in order to engage the rubber o-ring of the winder with the drive wheel) - which I will try to unbend next.
Anyway, I was thinking that next I might soak the assembly overnight in nail polish remover, to try dissolving the gummed up oil that I guess is gluing the spindle inside its bushing. However, I am reticent, wondering whether the nail polish remover would damage the black plastic wheel onto which the B-W rubber o-ring mounts.
Any suggestions, please?
By the way, are replacement B-W mechanisms available, affordable, etc?
When you apply WD-40, you have to turn the mechanism to work it in. You may need to use a pair of pliers with a soft cloth between the pliers and spindle. Try applying heat with a blow dryer. Do not put it in fingernail polish remover. That could make things worse.
ReplyDeleteI couldn’t find a replacement bobbin winder in the Brewer catalog. If the machine has been dropped on it’s top or hit with a hammer, the shaft inside could be bent, and probably wouldn’t be repairable.
Hello Annette
ReplyDeleteThank you. You and your sewing machine blog are great!
WD40 didn't penetrate enough to loosen the BW spindle. I did try pliers - to no avail. I will have to find a better penetrating fluid (preferably home made).
The machine hasn't been dropped; and I only tapped the BW spindle with a hammer in the way you would normally insert or remove an interference-fit item. It is the lever arm that is slightly bent now (and needs straightening out now) not the spindle. Is there a way for me to upload a photo?
As a backup, it seems I have located a replacement BW assembly online, and I'm hoping to get that.
If WD-40 doesn’t work, and it can’t be loosened with tools, it’s probably time for a replacement. And I’ll bet the replacement part won’t cost very much. Sounds like you gave it a good try!
ReplyDeleteThank you this resolved my Issue........Roxanne
ReplyDeleteHello Annette! I've been given a Singer 158.13511 machine and I seem to have the opposite problem - when I start the machine, only the bobbin winder spins and the needle doesn't move! I can rotate the clutch wheel and the needle moves up and down. I can also rotate the outer wheel, which makes the bobbin winder turn around. Do you have any ideas as to what's going wrong? I got it in a filthy state, so I'm going to go and get some WD40, compressed air and sewing machine oil thanks to your advice. Thank you! Gemma
ReplyDeleteHi Gemma,
DeleteI think you mean a Kenmore 158.13511 (instead of Singer). That’s a great little machine!
I wonder if the bobbin winder tire is too big, or if the bobbin winder needs an adjustment on the inside. I don’t have one in front of me right now, but I think there’s a screw that will bring it closer or farther away from the handwheel.
Let me know what you figure out.
Hi Annette,
DeleteYes, you're right, it is a Kenmore. Whoops! One thing I noticed is that when I loosen (or remove) the screw on the centre knob, the knob will not come off. I've been spraying WD40 in there but to no avail. Since doing this though, when I start the machine, the needle does now move up and down, but also the bobbin winder still goes. This is an improvement! I'm going to keep trying to get that centre knob off though. I've given it a good clean inside too - lots of caked on dark grease around. I couldn't see a screw that moves the bobbin winder away from the hand wheel, but maybe one thing to note is that when I put the top lid back on, it doesn't fit until I rotate the handwheel slightly. It's as though (sorry I don't know the names) the belt on the inside of the hand wheel is not on straight and it needs to be in the right orientation to allow the winder tire to fit past it. However, rotating the hand wheel and looking from above, it looks to be straight. Thank you again for your help!
Some clarification on the centre knob: it is mostly turning freely. Every third turn, it is more difficult to turn and then eases up again. It has certainly been loosened; there is a gap between the centre knob and the outer wheel, but the centre knob will not screw off completely.
DeleteI took a screw driver to it, and removed the plastic part of the knob. It took a wrench to get the metal part off (the bit that's still inside the plastic on picture 2). Thank you so much for this blog, it's made me a lot more confident in tackling it!
DeleteYou’ve really been working hard! If you’ve got the ring off, that’s great. Are you able to get the handwheel to come off of the shaft? Sometimes WD-40 isn’t enough. If you take your blow dryer to it, the heat will give it an extra boost. Sounds like that shaft really needs to be cleaned.
DeleteKeep me posted.
I wasn't able to remove it completely from the shaft because I wasn't confident about removing the belt. But with the outer panel loosened, I could pull the hand wheel out quite far to remove the gunk and then oil it. Pressing the foot pedal now, everything seems to run a lot smoother. I'm still in the situation where when the needle is going up and down, the bobbin winder is also spinning at the same time (is this normal?), but I am able to loosen the clutch and only have the bobbin winder spinning, which is progress!
DeleteThank you! That fixed it!
ReplyDeleteHi, hoping that you might be able to help me out. I just aquired an old early model class 15 Singer threadle sewing machine and of course it is in pretty bad condition rust, grime and all you can think of. It has an on board bobbin winder located on top right next to the handwheel. I took it apart to clean it up but now am not sure how to get it back together. Do you know of any link to someone on the web who might be able to help or if you know anything about these machines and might be able to give me some pointers. Thanks in advance
ReplyDeleteAlice D
I referred Alice to the Vintage Machine section of the Quilting Board. There's some vintage Singer lovers there who know so much.
ReplyDeleteHere's a link to a picture of a Kenmore bobbin winder. https://softsolder.com/2015/02/23/kenmore-158-bobbin-winder-tires/ In the picture, there are 2 black screws. If you loosen them both, the bobbin winder can slide closer or farther away from the handwheel. Does this picture look like your bobbin winder?
ReplyDeleteYes, that looks like it. One of the screws wasn't set properly, so I removed them and rescrewed them. Now only my needle goes up and down, but when I loosen the clutch, only the hand wheel turns and not the bobbin winder. I'm almost there!
DeleteFixed it! Thank you so much for your help!
DeleteYeah!
ReplyDeleteKeep Sewing!
Thanks so much for your help! I got my trusty old machine up and running. Can you tell my why I have to remove the WD-40 once I get the parts moving again? Thanks!
ReplyDeleteHi Michelle,
ReplyDeleteI’m glad you got your machine going!
You need to remove the WD-40 because it will continue to break down the oil. So if you put new oil on top of the WD-40, it will break it down, and your machine won’t be lubricated, it will just be clean. We use WD-40 as a solvent, not as a lubricant.
Hello, I have a Singer 4411 Heavy Duty. It was working fine, but after I wound the bobbin, the needle would not go up and down when I started sewing. I opened up the top of the machine and saw that when I pushed on the paddle, the large belt moved the clutch as if it was winding the bobbin, but the small belt did not move and so the needle did not move. It looks as if the machine is stuck on the bobbin winding mode. I flipped the bobbin winding shaft back and forth trying to release it but it did not work. Last time it happened, I kept trying and all of a sudden something clicked and the needle started moving. The clutch on this machine is a solid one piece and I cannot open it, or can I? Please help. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteHi Vi,
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like something has some gummed up oil on it. WD-40 would probably fix it right up. The handwheel cover just pulls off. Then there’s a screw in the center that you take out. Inside the handwheel is a spring. Take the spring out, but pay close attention to where the ends of the spring are positioned. Clean the spring with WD-40, be sure to remove all of the WD-40 with a rag and/or air. Put some good sewing machine oil on it, and put it back together.
I hope that will take care of the problem.
Hi Nancy,
ReplyDeleteNo, I don’t think it would be a problem with the belt.
My first thought is that it might just need to be adjusted so the bobbin winder tire is touching the handwheel correctly, when the bobbin winder is switched on. There will be a screw on the inside that you’d loosen, then adjust how far away the bobbin winder is to the handwheel.
When you say, “now tension to wind bobbin…” do you mean that the thread is loose on the bobbin, or that the bobbin winder spindle won’t turn?
If you had it at a local shop, they should be more than happy to put it right. I’d take it back and show them.
I have a kenmore model 1350. The cluch kept slipping. i uncrewed the cluch knob it was hard to turn off it finaly broke the plastic knob still can not remove the cluch. how can i remove it then order the new knop?
ReplyDeleteFirst, I’m going to assume that you loosened or removed the little screw.
ReplyDeleteThen I suggest that you soak it with WD-40. Then heat it with a hair dryer. Sometimes I use channel locks to grab the knob (or what’s left of it).
That particular Kenmore is a great machine. They made a lot of them. You can probably find a whole machine at the thrift store for less than $20. There are also a lot of Kenmore parts on Ebay.
Good Luck to You!
Thank you just the plastic knob part broke, it appeared to be glued on.i stopped there afraid to go futher to remove the metal gear
DeleteGreat post, our metal ring hit the floor before we saw how it went in so we put it back in wrong. Finally decided we better research it since the machine started jamming. We also had bobbin winder issues and it appears the shaft with the Oring is seizing. I just assumed it was an Oring issue. We oiled it up and put the part in like you said to and it all works much better now. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteYou’re Welcome!
ReplyDeleteHappy Sewing!
Help! The little wire on the bobbin reminder spindle on my Singer 1116 machine is missing! The spindle will turn when I have a bobbin on it but the bobbin itself won’t spin. I have put a straw in the spindle letting part of it come through the slit and it works pretty good! Lol
ReplyDeletei stumbled upon your blog, but boy and i happy that i did. your pics are CLEAR and your explanations are also. my bobbin winder was stuck, 'cause i used 3in1 oil instead of sewing machine oil to lube last time. we won't mention the dust and dirt. until you, i'd never heard of air in a can. but i bought some. i'd already bought sm oil. i cleaned and oiled my "girl". i followed your directions to correct the problem. my bobbin winder works again. my stitches were irregular, followed tension directions. now they're fine. i can't thank you enough for this blog. i love my old metal machines. i'm just so grateful that i found this page. i can't thank you enough.
ReplyDeleteDear Annette ... and I do mean DEAR! You have solved a problem that has vexed me for too many years to count (blush!). Thank you for the time and effort you have put into this delightful blog.
ReplyDeleteI've read so many of your articles and thrilled to find you. I added my question in the wrong place. So I can't find my answer. Sorry for the duplicate post here.
ReplyDeleteI just got a new Singer 4432. I thought it was just like my old Singer but it isn't. There is a slight difference in the length of the little plastic cover over the bobbin. The little cover pops up constantly. If my hand goes anywhere near that little black button, the plastic pops up. Any ideas why this would happen. I've ordered a new bobbin holder as this one doesn't feel like it's settling in right. But it's brand new. any help appreciated. Thank you, Sandy. ps can I subscribe to this blog? I have a blog myself but it's wordpress. Not sure how this one works.
....one more question. I read your article about plastic versus metal bobbins. My Singer came with plastic but I tried a metal and it does sound better with a metal bobbin. It's the 4432. Is it all right to use the metal in a Singer 4432? Thanks again
ReplyDeleteI have an old Kenmore close to 158.17 and the hand wheel won't pull out to disengage and allow me to fill the bobbin. Help??
ReplyDeleteI am thrilled that I found you. Your explanation of how to fix my "nob" on my Kenmore 1350. You are wonderful. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteHi i am so glad i have discover your site!! i don't understand why the hand wheel of my Brother sewing machine is jammed up today but when i shift it to winding the bobbin status. it rotates just fine!! it just doesn't move if it is in really to sew mode. please please help! thank you.
ReplyDeleteI love your blog site! I bought a vintage Japanese machine and followed your directions and my bobbin winder now works perfectly! Thank you for sharing your knowledge!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Lynda!
ReplyDeleteHappy Sewing!
Hi I really need your help.I have a Singer model 5932T .The hook jammed,as it was full of lint.After removing the plate that held the black plastic carrier,I could not get the carrier/bobbin back in place. I've been a designing engineer for 60 yrs..."I've met my match!It appears that something is missing that causes the assy to reciprocate.There is nothing that keeps the carier in place when the plate is back place.I'm not able to find an exploded view...HELP...CHARLIE
ReplyDeleteHi Charlie,
DeleteYou have an “Apollo” bobbin case. They can get damaged pretty easily, but can also be replaced for about $6 or $7.
There’s a triangle shaped metal piece in the bobbin area, on the left side. It has a slot in it. When you put a screw driver in the slot, it can be turned out of the way, so you can get the bobbin case out. Or turned the other way, to hold the bobbin case in place. Here’s a great YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4RjqrsTE_A
You’ve got this!
I just wanted to say THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU! I followed your instructions and my bobbin winder in my Bernina 807 is in great working order now. You just saved me time, money, and stress!
ReplyDeleteYay! A happy sewing machine makes a happy sew-er!
DeleteThank you so much for offering this kind of help!! The clutch had quit working on my 1973 Kenmore sewing machine..that I had bought NEW way back then. So, it was great to be able to fix it as I have LOTS of projects coming up and now I don't have to worry about it now. I appreciate you and this service! I love this machine and I wouldn't trade it for all the new technology in the world! Thank you for your help!!
ReplyDeleteYou're Welcome!
DeleteHappy Sewing!
Adding another thank you comment! Somehow I'd flipped that ring the wrong way and couldn't get things to tighten. A few words of advice from your article and I was back sewing again. Bookmarking your site. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteThank You!
DeleteHappy Sewing!
I have a Bernina 1010 and am unable to disengage the clutch to wind a bobbin. I can still wind the bobbin, but the needle goes up and down. Does this do any harm to my machine? I have removed the screw on the wheel, but am unable to move the inner wheel to disengage.
ReplyDeleteIf you wind a bobbin with the needle going up and down, it’s a good idea to take the needle out and remove the presser foot. Because if you’re winding the bobbin at full speed, and the needle and hook crash, you may damage something, or the feed dogs can gouge the bottom of the presser foot.
DeleteTo get that inner wheel to disengage, I push the machine up against a wall on a counter, and put my whole weight into it. Mechanic gloves can give your hands double strength so you can turn the knob. I got mine at Lowe’s, in with the garden gloves, for about $10. If it’s really stubborn, I’ll wrap some rubbery shelf lining around the handwheel (to get a better grip) and inner knob (to protect it from getting damaged) and use my channel locks to grip the center knob and turn it. Another way to get it un-screwed is to use strap wrenches. They’re rubbery, so grip pretty good. Put one on the handwheel and one on the center knob and turn them opposite directions – “lefty loosey” on the center knob.
It’s a really good idea to just fix the problem. If you can get that center knob un-screwed, you can get the handwheel off and clean the clutch shaft with WD-40.
I hope you’re able to get the clutch cleaned up.
Thanks for your very prompt reply. I guess I am afraid of breaking the inner wheel. I will give it a try though and let you know what happens. Thanks again.
DeleteGood luck!
DeleteLet me know how it goes.
It worked! I used a rubber gripper and was able to loosen the inner wheel. Nothing looked gummy or fuzzy, but I cleaned it and added some sewing machine oil. I filled a bobbin and the problem is solved. Thank you for this service. I will spread the word!
ReplyDeleteYay!!!
DeleteHappy Sewing!
I love your blog! I'm so happy I found it. I have a brother cs-8060. The machine works fine except for the bobbin winder. I can hear the motor churning as it would if it would spin the bobbin. Except in this case, it does not spin. I am new to sewing but pretty handy with tools. What could be wrong? How can I remove the side case to get inside the machine? I would appreciate any help you can offer. Thank you so much!
ReplyDeleteThis is a great website - but everyone else on this website seems to have a problem that is opposite of what I have. The stop motion knob of my Singer 501 Rocketeer can not be tightened. I have never worked on it myself - always lugged it in. I honestly can't remember whether the last tune-up was done at the remaining Singer-only shop - which has been in business at least 40 years but charges for just opening the door - or if I took it to a Hancocks/Joanns and had the visiting "tech" service it. From reading your blog, I guess it's possible that the last person to service it put the clutch on with the tabs facing inward rather than outward. Before I get up the courage to take off the stop-motion knob, could that cause the problem? Can the clutch ring actually wear out? I couldn't find a replacement part online but maybe "clutch" is not the right term? What I experience on the machine is the exact analog of what I "felt" driving a standard transmission car when the clutch was slipping? Thanks in advance!
ReplyDeleteYes, you're right. The ring inside needs to be turned to a different position. Tabs should be outward, but it may need to be rotated one notch.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your site. I have a 1974 Kenmore sewing machine that the needle has always gone up and down while winding the bobbin. The machine was a gift and could not be returned. The issue had progressed until the bobbin would no longer wind. My machine now runs better than new!
ReplyDeleteYay! You did awesome!
DeleteTo paraphrase another application, "the clutch ring can be installed 4 different ways. 3 of them are wrong..." I finally made punch marks on mine on 1 inner tab and its mating shaft notch.
ReplyDeleteMarking the correct positions is a great idea! Permanent marker might work just as well.
DeleteThanks so much for a very helpful post.
ReplyDeleteThe bobbin winder on my jenome works fine now.
I have a brand new Singer 7258. But... It’s been sitting in the box for a couple of years, due to circumstances beyond my control. I finally got it set up, went to wind the bobbin and it seems the needle is not disengaging, so within a second or two (as soon as the needle moves) it stops and gives me an error code E2. Is there anything that I can do?? My health has finally gotten to where I can sew and I am beginning a journey to make a quilt for each of my 30 grandchildren. Any pointers would mean the world to me. Thank you
ReplyDeleteYep. They freeze-up if you don't use them for a long time. The oil turns into a tar-like substance. The trouble with a machine like yours is that they're hard to get inside -- there are no service panels. The bobbin winder clutch is inside the handwheel or on the machine side of the handwheel. So, if you can pull the cover off the handwheel, take the handwheel apart and clean all the gunk off, that might get you sewing again. If you do take it apart, take some of pictures, so you know how to put it back together, again.
DeleteGood Luck to You!
I have a Euro Pro 420. When I engage the bobbin winder, it does not move. I took the cover off to inspect and it seems the hook that engages the hand wheel keeps it from turning when the bobbin winder is engaged.
ReplyDeleteI suspect there's grease in the clutch, inside the handwheel, that has frozen up. If you're brave, you can remove the handwheel, clean all the crusty stuff out, then re-oil with sewing machine oil. Take pictures so you can remember how to put it back together. There's likely to be a big spring, like a Slinky, inside there that needs to be cleaned up, and it has to go back in the right position.
DeleteThank you so much! Both the bobbin clutch and the spindle were frozen on my 50 year old Kenmore machine. Now it works like a charm again! I am not at all mechanically inclined but feel really smart now that I followed your steps and fixed my machine.
ReplyDeleteThat's Awesome!!!
DeleteHI MY NAME IS MAGGIE. I HAVE A WHITE MODEL 130 SEWING MACHINE AND I'M HAVE TROUBLE WITH MY BOBBIN NOT WINDING. ITS LIKE THE BOBBIN WON'T LOCK IN AND SOMETIMES JUST SET THEIR AND WON'T GO AROUND. ANY IDEALS.
ReplyDeleteMake sure the bobbin has a slot near the center hole. That slot should lock onto a little, metal stub. If it's not locking in, try turning the bobbin over.
DeleteOR... If the bobbin winder has a split shaft, you can GENTLY push a medium size screwdriver into the split to widen it so it will hold on better.
I had my Pfaff 6230 serviced last year. Have only used it a couple of times since. I’m trying to sew mask and turning the clutch knob all the way to the left will not disengage the needle mechanism, and start the bobbin Winding.
ReplyDeleteIt's got a waxy grease in the clutch that freezes everything up. Here's a link to show you how to fix it. http://shesasewingmachinemechanic.blogspot.com/2017/09/pfaff-bobbin-winder-clutch.html
DeleteGood Luck to You!
My 40+ year old Kenmore workhorse suddenly stopped winding bobbins. Am in NYC, sewing masks for friends working the front lines in healthcare. Found your site, followed your clear directions and machine now working perfectly. Thank you so much.
ReplyDeleteTake good care, everyone.
Ahhh... Music to my ears!
DeleteHi I have a Brother CS5055PRW and I can hear the thing run but nothing winds. I checked all the things you’re supposed to check in the manual.
ReplyDeleteI've seen a couple of those machines with the bobbin winder tire down inside the bottom of the machine. It never got connected to the bobbin winder in the factory.
DeleteIf it's a new machine, I'd send it back and get a different machine.
It’s not new. It just stopped working.
ReplyDeleteMaybe the bobbin winder tire fell off. Can you see it attached to the end of the bobbin winder post?
DeleteThose machines have delicate wires that attach to the circuit board. If you open the machine, you have to be very careful not to disconnect the wires.
I have a Kenmore model number 121-2180 and the bobbin keeps popping out I can't get it to lock and what am I doing wrong
ReplyDeleteMy first thought is that you're using a bad bobbin. Can you try a different bobbin? The good bobbins are about 40 cents each.
DeleteAlso, the bobbin case could have build-up inside that needs to be removed. Or it could be damaged. They're less than $5 for a new bobbin case.
One more idea... sometimes thread wraps around the center post, that your bobbin snaps onto.
I hope you're able to get your machine sewing again!
Oh, I am so glad that I found your blog! I am in desperate need of help. My grandmother left me her Kenmore 1560 (which looks similar to the one above). It is beautiful. When I plugged it in, the belts moves beautifully, but nothing else did. The needle is not moving in the slightest. People online have recommended tightening the smaller know while holding the larger one still, but I am just confused! I have video that shows the side and top if it.
ReplyDeleteThankyou! I just bought a vintage sewing machine and the bobbin winder wasnt engaging and the needle went up and down when trying to wind a bobbin! After looking at your instructions, 2 minutes later my machine is fixed!!! The metal to g was on back to front!! Thanks for sharing your wisdom! Ps the machine is a St James supreme, made for david Jones, I have no idea of the year model 😀
ReplyDeleteThat's awesome! Have fun with your vintage machine!
DeleteThank you for that clear explanation. I have a Elita 140 sewing machine.When i put the handwheel in the lock postion nothing moves not handwheel or the needle even when i try to move it by hand it doesn`t, but when I disengage the bobbin clutch the wheel and bobbin winder moves fine..I used WD40 on the inside,checked to see if anything loose and can`t see anything..Is there anything I can try or is this a lost cause..Thanks John
ReplyDeleteAaron
Hi Aaron,
DeleteDon't know who John is, but my name is Annette.
If you've soaked the machine well with WD-40, and it hasn't made any progress, I'd double check the gears. I'm not very familiar with the Elnita/Elita machines, so couldn't tell you if they have plastic gears or not. But that's worth checking.
Good Luck to You!
Hi Annette
DeleteMy name is John..Sorry my keyboard was acting all screwy...They do not have plastic gears it is all metal..The problem with the machine is for some reason when you lock the wheel to keep it from winding the bobbin it does not activate the sewing part and it seems to lock everything in place...The wheel does not turn and it does not go up or down..but I can turn it by hand though..
Have you checked the belts and pulleys?
DeleteSometimes a pulley will freeze-up. You'd just need to take it apart and clean it with WD-40.
Sometimes belts wear out. Sometimes oil gets on the belt, and it slips. Sometimes it's just that the motor mount isn't tight enough, or maybe too tight. There needs to be just the right tension on the belt for it to sew at its best.
Hi Annette
DeleteI tried everything that you suggested and I still can`t get the sewing part to start when I lock the wheel into place..But like I said before i can turn it by hand..One thing I did notice and I am not sure if this is the problem or not is that inside the wheel there is a half metal piece as well..Is that normal , is it supposed to be a full metal piece..I could send you a picture if you need me to..Also could the mechanism itself be the issue..? Thanks John
Hi. My singer 640 has a button that you push to the side when you want to wind the bobbin. The switch is stuck to the left so i've been winding the bobbin by hand.
ReplyDeleteThe machine still sews well despite the stuck bobbin switch.
Have you ever dealt with this/is it something I could tackle myself?
If it was at the shop, we'd probably blow it out with an air compressor, first. If that didn't knock something loose, I'd spray some WD-40 in there and see if that would get things moving. Just try to get the lever moving with your hand. Whenever we use WD-40, we have to remove it while it's still wet. So that's where we use the air compressor again. Paper towels or a cloth rag could also work.
DeleteI have a Singer 93234 the bobbin winder has two issues 1- it seems to be frozen so thank you for instruction on how to possibly unfreeze 2- the top spindle doesn't go all the way to the right any suggestions?
ReplyDeleteThanks
You'll have to remove the top cover to see what's going on with the bobbin winder. On most Singers of that era, you need to remove the left side cover and find a screw hiding inside that will allow the top to be removed. You'll also need to pull off the knob on the stitch width lever. Then you have to get a little rough to get the top to let go of the tension area. I'll bet when you get inside, you'll be able to figure it out.
DeleteHello there, love your blog so much, this was such a helpful post! Question for you - I have an old Japan made zig zagger (Universal De Luxe Automatic Zig Zagger), prob from the 50s, weighs a ton :). I cannot figure out how to get the clutch wheel and handwheel off the back! There's no little screw in the clutch wheel to remove, like there usually is. The wheel unscrews enough to stop the needle from driving while bobbin winding, but there's a little pin (or maybe washer) that stops it from unscrewing all the way. I have the top off the machine and there's no screw inside to release it either. Would love any tips, thanks so much!
ReplyDeleteHi Neffbot,
DeleteI don't think I've ever seen one without a screw in the center knob. I've been trying to find pictures with Google, but can't find any.
Do you want to send me a picture of the handwheel, maybe I can figure it out. Send the picture to a.rose.sews at gmail.com. You've got to unscramble the email, so I don't get a ton of spam.
Oh that would be wonderful! I was also trying to find a picture to include a link to, but also came up empty! It's the oddest thing!
DeleteThank you so much for sharing your expertise!! My $35 National machine now works! ♥️♥️♥️
ReplyDeleteYay!!! You did a great job!
DeleteThanks you just help me fix the bobbin Winder on my old seventies Kenmore. Is been harder and harder to wind the bobbin and then it completely gave out yesterday. I am so surprised I could fix it myself thanks to your photos and instruction! My dad used to clean and oil the machine but he's been gone 15 years so it's definitely been neglected...Thanks again for your help...Linda
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you got your bobbin winder going!
DeleteThank you so much. Instructions are clear and photos were great. I got my really old Nelco working again. Cleaned the "track" on the handwheel and the lower winder too while I was at it. My case is shot (and is behind repairing anymore - the wood is too old and dry for the screws to hold) so taking the machine into a shop would have been somewhat problematic. Love this old machine...like a classic BMW.
ReplyDeleteYay! I'm glad you got your old friend sewing again!
DeleteThank you! I can now tighten and loosen the bobbin winder on my Kenmore (looks almost exactly like this picture) again.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much!! I've been struggling with this issue for months & now that I followed this advice, I'm back to sewing without the frustration. You're an angel!!!
ReplyDeleteYay! That's what I love to hear!
DeleteWe offer various loans to individuals (personal loan) and cooperate with the bodies at an interest rate of 2% per annum. This will help you meet your financial obligations, especially due to the ongoing global financial crisis. You can borrow between 1,000 and 500,000,000 (pounds, euros or dollars). For more information, please contact us by email (challotloan@gmail.com) Regards.
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I've been living with an old Bernina that refused to wind for the last 10 years. I gave up and had a machine just to wind my bobbin. lol this is AMAZING! Thank you so much - just fixed both!
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