Introduction
Sewing machines are an integral part of many households, both for decorative and practical purposes. They are fairly easy to use and can come in handy if you ever find yourself in a project that requires stitching. However, in order to maintain the optimal performance of your sewing machine and make sure it runs like new, you must perform regular servicing and maintenance. In this article, we will discuss the steps to properly service the Brother brand of sewing machines.
Inspecting the Machine
Before beginning any kind of servicing on the sewing machine, it is important to inspect it physically. The purpose of inspecting the sewing machine is to identify any signs of wear and tear, or any other abnormalities that may require immediate attention or repairs. You should start off by examining the outside of the machine for any visible signs of damage or corrosion. You should also check for any loose parts, including the screws and nuts that attach the various components. Lastly, you should make sure all of the levers, dials, and buttons are fully functioning.
Cleaning the Machine
Once you’ve inspected the machine and ensured all of the parts are in working order, you can begin cleaning it. For machines like the Brother machine, it is important to use a damp cloth to remove any dust and lint from the exterior. You should also remove the bobbin cover and clean the interior area surrounding the bobbin with a small brush. This will help ensure that the internal components are kept clean and lint-free.
Lubricating the Machine
The next step in the servicing process is to lubricate the machine. To do this, you should use a light-weight oil, such as those used specifically for sewing machines. You can apply the lubrication by lightly rubbing it over all of the moving parts, including the bobbin, the shuttle, and the feed dogs. Make sure to use just enough oil, as too much may cause the gears and parts to become sticky.
Replacing the Needles
Needles for sewing machines need to be changed every so often in order to maintain proper sewing performance. With the Brother sewing machine, the needle should be replaced every 4-6 months, or after approximately 8 to 10 hours of sewing. To change the needle, turn off the machine, remove the needle plate, and take out the old needle. Then, install the new needle, making sure it is securely tightened. Finally, replace the needle plate to complete the installation.
Threading the Bobbin
In order to ensure that the Brother sewing machine is able to produce even and consistent stitches, it is important to properly thread the bobbin. Begin by inserting the bobbin into the bobbin case and securing it with the pin. Once the bobbin is in place, you can start threading the bobbin by winding the thread around the bobbin tension disc. Lastly, cut the thread and secure it in the notch of the tension disc.
Tension Adjustments
Tension adjustments are important for ensuring that the thread and fabric are pulled together in an even manner. To make any adjustments to the tension on the Brother sewing machine, you must first loosen the two tension screws that are located on the upper part of the machine. Next, you can use the tension knob to set the desired tension. Finally, you can adjust the tension discs, located beneath the needle plate, for any additional adjustments.
Conducting a Test
The last step in the servicing process is to run a test on the machine. Begin by threading a scrap fabric through the needle and the bobbin, and then adjust the stitch length and width to the desired settings. Then, commence the sewing test, taking note of any irregular stitches or skipped stitches. If these irregularities occur, check the tension, threading and needle as there may be something wrong with any of these components.
Conclusion
Servicing a Brother sewing machine may seem like an intimidating task, but with the right knowledge and patience, it is quite simple. All you need to do is inspect the machine, clean it, lubricate it, replace the needle, thread the bobbin, adjust the tension, and conduct a test. By following these steps, you can ensure that your Brother sewing machine remains in optimal condition for years to come.
