How to Repair a Sewing Machine

Sewing machines are heavy-duty appliances that can stand up to years of use. And when one stops working, often the machine just needs a good cleaning and oiling, or replacement of a simple part like the drive belt.

Instructions

Cleaning and oiling the machine

Step 1

Unfasten the top, bottom, side and hand wheel covers, using a screwdriver. Set the covers aside.

Step 2

Remove the plate that covers the thread bobbin. If it is screwed in place, use a screwdriver. If it is held by a clip or magnet, use a small flathead screwdriver to pry up the plate.

Step 3

Thoroughly clean inside all the openings, using a vacuum with crevice attachment. Remove any stubborn lint, and use tweezers to take out any thread that is wound around the parts.

Step 4

Clean the teeth on the gears, using the tip of a round toothpick to loosen the grime. Vacuum to remove it.

Step 5

Lubricate all the moving parts। Use white lithium grease on the gears, and sewing machine oil on the other parts

Step 6

Reassemble the machine and plug it in

Tightening or replacing the drive belt

Step 1

Remove the top cover, bottom cover and handwheel cover, using a screwdriver to take out the screws.

Step 2

Inspect the drive belt. If it is slack, use your screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold the motor in place, then follow step 4, below, to increase the belt's tension. If the belt is cracked or broken, get a replacement from your sewing machine supplier.

Step 3

Install the new belt. Loosen the motor-mounting screws, and shift the motor toward the hand-wheel so you can slip the belt over the parts.

Step 4

Shift the motor away from the hand-wheel to increase the belt's tension, then tighten the motor-mounting screws and check the tension. The belt should flex no more than 1/2 inch (12 mm). If it is too loose, increase the tension.

Step 5

Reinstall the covers and plug in the machine.