What are the most common sewing machine faults written by experienced mechanic

Use this section of Q & A's to find the cause of an error, then use the technical repairs section to help fix the problems.

Most computerised or mechanical sewing machines have very similar components, and they all use thread to form a lock stitch. At times, troubleshooting them is not a simple task. But with the help of a sewing machine mechanic with more than 30 years experience, it may be possible to diagnose and repair a problem, yourself.

Most problems, we are talking 95% of sewing machines problems occur because of user threading errors mainly relating to thread tension errors. For example thread looping, needle getting jammed, bobbin case jumped out of position, these very common issues mostly relate to the thread being too loose, whereby the sewing machine can not sew correctly, due to the loose threads

The very first area to troubleshoot is threading.

Make sure the machine is threaded correctly as per its instruction book. Make sure the thread go's through all threading guides, including the tension unit discs, the thread take-up-lever, the tiny wire guide just about the needle clamp, and the needle eye.

Double check to see if the needle is facing the correct direction; the rule of thumb is that the needle shank, with the flat surface, should face away from the bobbin. (If the bobbin is loaded in front of the needle, the flat on the needle shank should face rearward)