💡 Let's Troubleshoot!
Click on the issue that best matches your problem. I'll show you some things to try before scheduling service.
Machine Won't Turn On — Try These:
1
Check that the power cord is fully plugged in at both ends
2
Try a different electrical outlet
3
Check if the fuse in the plug needs replacing
4
For battery-powered components, try fresh batteries
5
Look for a power switch on the back of the machine
Still having trouble? No worries — continue filling out this form and I'll take a look at your machine in person.
Carriage Won't Move — Try These:
1
Check if any yarn is tangled in the carriage or needles
2
Make sure all needles are in the correct position (not bent)
3
Clean the needle bed rail with a soft cloth
4
Check that the carriage is properly seated on the rails
5
Look for any broken or bent needles that may be blocking movement
Still having trouble? No worries — continue filling out this form and I'll take a look at your machine in person.
Dropping Stitches — Try These:
1
Check that your yarn tension is not too loose
2
Inspect the sponge bar - if compressed, it needs replacement
3
Make sure needles are not bent or damaged
4
Check that the yarn is feeding smoothly through the tension mast
5
Ensure the carriage sinker plate is clean and undamaged
Still having trouble? No worries — continue filling out this form and I'll take a look at your machine in person.
Tension Issues — Try These:
1
Clean the tension discs with a soft cloth
2
Check that yarn is threaded correctly through all guides
3
Try adjusting the tension dial in small increments
4
Make sure the yarn is appropriate weight for your machine gauge
5
Check the yarn mast antenna for any rough spots
Still having trouble? No worries — continue filling out this form and I'll take a look at your machine in person.
Electronic/Computer Errors — Try These:
1
Turn off the machine, wait 30 seconds, then turn back on
2
Check all cable connections between components
3
For older machines, the backup battery may need replacement
4
Make sure the room is not too cold (electronics can malfunction below 50°F)
5
Try resetting to factory defaults if available
Still having trouble? No worries — continue filling out this form and I'll take a look at your machine in person.
Rust or Mechanical Issues — Try These:
1
Light surface rust can often be cleaned with fine steel wool and oil
2
Apply sewing machine oil to moving parts
3
Store machine in a dry location with silica gel packets
4
For severe rust, professional cleaning is recommended
5
Check if rubber parts (belts, sponge bar) have deteriorated
Still having trouble? No worries — continue filling out this form and I'll take a look at your machine in person.
🔧 General Maintenance Tips
Check the Sponge Bar
The sponge bar should be fluffy and bounce back when compressed. It should be installed with the foam facing down on top of the needles and the metal side up. If it's flat or installed wrong, do not run the machine - get a replacement first. Press needles down when installing a new sponge bar.
→ If you need a new sponge bar, we can meet in San Diego and you can buy one from me.
Clean and Oil the Machine
Use light machine oil (gun oil or sewing machine oil) on any part that moves. Apply where metal touches metal or plastic touches metal. Key areas: carriage front and back where it connects with main bed, and the carriage flippers (should be snappy, not sluggish). Do NOT apply directly to electronic parts.
Sticky Carriage Buttons
If carriage buttons aren't moving, try working light machine oil into them from the edge while gently pushing. This is common with machines that sat unused for years. Letting them sit overnight after applying penetrating oil (like Kroil) can help, but apply light machine oil after. Do NOT send oil into carriages with electronics inside.
Watch Tutorial Videos
I have playlists on YouTube of people working on machines and aligning them properly (especially when using a ribber). These are valuable references.
→ Visit: youtube.com/@makelively6233/playlists
Don't Take Apart Too Much!
Please avoid diving too deeply into disassembling your machine. Some areas will result in a bucket of parts from removing one screw. This makes repair much harder than if you wait a few weeks for an appointment.
Check for Bent Needles
If the carriage gets stuck in the same place, replace the needles in that area. A very slight bend is easier to feel (compared to neighbors) than to see. Also check that needle latches move freely - if sticky, clean and oil them.
