Raising the level of the needle on a Brother sewing machine is a task that should be done with caution. It’s important to get the height of the needle just right, as getting it wrong can cause the machine to malfunction. Despite how intimidating it can seem, adjusting the needle level is actually a fairly straightforward task. By following the steps below, you will be able to raise the needle quickly and easily.
Start by turning the sewing machine off, unplugging it, and removing the housing. If you are unsure about how to do this, refer to the instruction manual. Once the housing is removed, you should be able to locate the needle cutout area. Gently and calmly turn the screw, either clockwise or counter-clockwise, until the needle is set to the desired height. Turning the screw too far will cause the needle to move higher than you intended it to.
It is important to note that some Brother sewing machines have a needle stop switch. This switch should always remain in the “off” position when you are adjusting the needle level. Once the needle is in the correct position, you can turn the switch “on,” so that the needle automatically stops moving when it reaches the highest position.
When adjusting the needle, it’s a good idea to use a needle guide. This allows you to keep track of the needle’s position, and to make sure that the needle is evenly aligned. For small adjustments, you may even want to use a hand held magnifying glass. This will help you to make minute changes that are more precise than can be achieved with a needle guide alone.
Next, you will want to calibrate the position of the needle. This can be done by measuring the distance from the needle bonnet to the needle plate. To have maximum accuracy, you should use a calibration gauge. Once you have the correct measurements, use the adjustment screw to make sure the needle is set to the desired level.
Finally, it’s important to check the tension of the needle thread. There should be even tension throughout the entire sewing process. Adjust the tension wheel until the needle thread is stretched to its maximum without being stretched too tightly. You can test the tension by attempting to pull a 1-inch length of thread from the needle. It should be easy to pull the thread, but not so easy that there is no resistance.
Troubleshooting Tips
If the needle is still not raising correctly, the first thing to check is the needle bar. This bar should be free of obstruction, so inspect the area around it to make sure there isn’t any dust or lint that could be causing a problem. If the needle bar is clear, the next step is to check the needle itself. Make sure that the needle is properly inserted, and that there aren’t any burrs or imperfections that could cause it to be stuck.
If the needle is still stuck, try adjusting the needle stop switch. This switch controls the downward movement of the needle and can sometimes cause the needle to jam if it has become misaligned. Adjust this switch until the needle moves freely without any obstruction.
You can also try adding a drop of sewing machine oil to the needle bar area. This will help to lubricate the area, making it easier for the needle to move freely. Finally, if all else fails, you should take the machine to a professional to be serviced.Common Mistakes
When adjusting the needle level, it’s important to take your time and not rush the process. Rushing the process can lead to mistakes, such as setting the needle to an incorrect height. Additionally, it’s important to avoid using too much force when turning the screw. This can cause damage to the sewing machine and should be avoided.
Another mistake to avoid is neglecting to check the tension of the needle thread after completing the adjustment. Not doing this can lead to an uneven stitch and will make projects look sloppy. This can be easily avoided by simply spending the extra time to do the final step of tension adjustment.
Safety Considerations
When adjusting the needle level, it is important to be aware of any potential safety hazards. Make sure that the needle is unplugged, and that the power switch is in the off position. Additionally, be careful when handling the needle and make sure not to get it too close to your face or hands. Even after adjusting the needle level, it is still possible for the needle to move unexpectedly, so always use caution when working with the machine.
The screw used to adjust the needle level is usually very small. Therefore, you should wear safety glasses when attempting to adjust the level. If you don’t have safety glasses, be sure to keep your face away from the needle in case the screw slips. Finally, be sure to dispose of any used needles properly, as they can be a hazard if not handled properly.
Preventative Maintenance
Regular maintenance will help to ensure that your Brother sewing machine runs smoothly. This includes periodic cleaning and oiling of the parts, as well as checking for any loose screws or screws that need to be tightened. Additionally, be sure to check for wear and tear on any rubber or plastic parts, as these parts can become brittle over time and need to be replaced.
Don’t forget to check the needle level periodically. This is especially important after completing a project that required a lot of needle adjustments. Adjusting the needle level too often can cause it to lose its accuracy, so it’s best to check it and reset it only when necessary.
Finally, it’s important to store the machine in a safe and dry location. This will help to protect it from dust, moisture, temperature changes, and other environmental hazards. This will also extend the life of the machine and ensure that it continues to perform as expected.
Conclusion
With a few simple steps, you can easily adjust the level of the needle on your Brother sewing machine. Start by removing the housing and gently turning the screw to set the correct needle height. Make sure to use a needle guide and to calibrate the position of the needle before you begin. Once the needle is in the correct position, check the tension of the needle thread and adjust the needle stop switch if necessary.
Moreover, it’s important to be aware of potential safety hazards and to practice preventative maintenance in order to keep your machine running smoothly. By following these steps, you’ll be able to easily adjust the level of the needle on your sewing machine and get back to work in no time.
