Most sewing machines have a real-time clock and this clock is responsible for controlling the speed of the sewing machine. If the timing of the sewing machine becomes out of sync with the clock, it will cause problems with your project. Luckily there are several steps you can take to ensure that the timing on your sewing machine is in the correct position.
One of the most important steps that should be taken to fix the timing on a sewing machine is to inspect the tension. If the tension is either too tight or too loose, it can cause the cloth to bunch, wrinkle, stretch, or break. In order to check the tension, you should run a few stitches on a scrap fabric and check for any problems. Once you have identified the issue, you can adjust the tension accordingly.
Next, you should inspect and adjust the timing belt of the sewing machine. The timing belt synchronizes the movement of the needle with the rest of the sewing machine components. If the timing belt is misaligned, then the needle will not be able to sew properly. To check the timing belt, you should first make sure that the belt is securely fastened. Once you have inspected the belt, you should adjust it until the timing is right.
The bobbin case of the sewing machine also needs to be examined. The bobbin case contains the thread spool, which holds the thread and helps the needle move through the fabric. If the bobbin case is not adjusted correctly, it can cause the thread to become tangled or knotted, or the needle to be pushed into the fabric unnecessarily. You will need to adjust the bobbin case so that the thread spool is correctly positioned and the bobbin is lined up correctly with the needle.
Next, check that the feed dogs of the sewing machine are moving correctly. The feed dogs are the metal arms that help the fabric move through the machine and assist the needle in making its stitches. If the feed dogs are not moving correctly, then the fabric will not be able to move through the machine as it should, and your project will suffer as a consequence. You can adjust the feed dogs by either replacing them or adjusting their height to ensure that they work correctly.
Finally, you should check the timing of the needle. This is the most important step, as if your needle is not correctly timed then your stitches will be inadequate. You should use a timing gauge to help you adjust the needle so that it is in the correct position. Once you have adjusted the needle, you should check again with the timing gauge.
Clean the Machine
Before attempting to adjust the timing on your sewing machine, make sure it is free from dust and grease. Grease and dirt can collect on the gears and belts of the sewing machine and interfere with the machine’s ability to function properly. This can cause the timing of the machine to become inaccurate and make it difficult to adjust the timing.
To clean the sewing machine properly, use a cloth dampened in rubbing alcohol to wipe away any dirt or oil. Make sure to get into all of the crevices of the machine that may harbor dirt particles. Once you have finished wiping down the machine, leave it to dry before attempting to make any further adjustments.
You should also oil any moving parts of the sewing machine, such as the feed dogs, the timing belt, and the bobbin case. Use a light machine oil and apply it sparingly to each part to reduce wear and tear on the internal components of the sewing machine. This will also help to ensure that your sewing machine is running smoothly.
Test & Troubleshoot
Once you have finished adjusting the timing on your sewing machine, it is important to test that it is working correctly. Use a scrap piece of material and attempt to sew a few stitches. This will help you to identify whether the timing of the machine is correct or not. If you notice any problems with the stitching, then you may need to adjust the timing again.
If you do encounter any problems during this stage, you should refer to your sewing machine manual. This may help you to troubleshoot any issues you may be having and provide you with helpful tips and advice on how to fix them. If the problem persists, then it is best to take your machine into a qualified technician who can properly diagnose and repair any problems that you may be facing with your sewing machine.
Conclusion
Keeping the timing on a sewing machine in sync is essential for producing quality results. By performing regular maintenance and following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your machine is running smoothly and that your sewing projects turn out perfectly every time. This will save you time and energy, as well as giving you professional-looking results.
