Having a sound knowledge on how to fix sewing machine handwheel saves the machine from further damage as you don’t try to turn the wheel forcibly being aware of the outcomes.
This is why today our write up revolves around the multiple reasons that cause handwheel issues. Along with the reasons you will have a proper solution to every problem.
How To Fix Sewing Machine Handwheel?
Apart from solutions, there are effective tips to help you be immaculate in your job. And a series of FAQs are also given to help you quench curiosity. Here we go!
Fix the upper thread having no tension
Do you know your blaming the bobbin because of loose tension in the upper thread has no base at all? Instead, it might be the thread’s loose tension causing the issue. In that case you should re-thread the needle unthreading it at first.
Unlock the tangling of the threads
Tangling of the threads is a very common issue that is responsible for increasing the thread tension. If this happens, you may not be able to turn the handwheel freely like before. No need to turn it forcibly.
Then what to do? Well, you can bring an excellent solution by simply rethreading the machine in the proper way.
Clean the sediments
Sediment can collect upon various inner parts of your sewing machine keeping you unaware. Gradually, you feel like you can’t rotate the handwheel easily; it requires more effort from you.
To solve the issue instantly, you have no alternative to getting the machine well-cleaned. For this you should at first open it up and remove the sediment of grease and dust smoothly.
Special focus must be given on the bobbin area as much collection of sediment is often found inside its case. Finally end the cleaning process only after oiling the parts circumspectly.
Oil the handwheel
Not necessary that it is always the inner parts that collect sediment thus toughening the handwheel’s rotation. The issue might be lied to with the handwheel itself. That’s to say its gears might get jammed and so require proper oiling.
While oiling you must be aware not to flood the gears with oil. Instead you should apply the oil by a single drop. Drop and turn the wheel at a time. As soon as you feel like the turning is smooth like before, stop oiling.
Make the knob free
If you are using a vintage sewing machine model then you are most likely to face this problem. This happens when you forget to unlock the inner knob. As soon as you release the knob by holding the handwheel, the difficulty vanishes.
Not only while winding the bobbin but also at any time you may have this issue. Every time you should seek the solution by unlocking the knob at first.
Check the belt
A broken or faulty or eroded belt is often responsible for clogging the free movement of the handwheel. This is why you mustn’t forget to inspect the belt frequently. And, whenever you find it to be broken or eroded, replace it soon.
Is the handwheel jammed because of no visible reason?
Is your sewing machine well-cleaned and oiled? Is the knob free? Is there no tangling or tension issue?
In such a helpless situation, you must do one thing to fight back the jammed handwheel. What is that? That’s nothing onerous or expensive rather a simple rethreading, unthreading the machine at first.
We know you may feel surprised and find the suggestion to be lunatic. But, you should at least try once. We guarantee that there is a big chance of your getting positive result at once.
Tips
- Always make sure that you turn the handwheel anti-clockwise. Turn it clockwise only when you need to unlock a tangled thread.
Keep in mind that frequent clockwise turning can cause serious issues to the machine’s motor. Eventually, you will have to spend a lot to get that fixed.
- Before you oil, don’t forget to go through the user manual to find out whether the machine is a self-lubricating one or not.
- Oiling is good but too much oiling is often responsible for sediment that eventually jams the handwheel. This is why we recommend you to oil the gears and other parts using a dropper.
- When not using the machine you should keep the machine well-covered to prevent the collection of dust sediment.
- Replacing the broken or eroded belt is a risky job that can cause injuries to your fingers. Therefore, if you haven’t not any experience in dealing with it, you better seek help from an expert.
- The handwheel may get stuck when you overuse the machine thus the motor becomes overheated. This mostly happens with the old models.
This is why you should either avoid overuse it at a stretch or allow the motor rest for some hours. Use the machine when the motor is sufficiently cool.
FAQs
Why won’t the handwheel on my sewing machine turn?
Ans. This can be an outcome of any of the issues we have discussed. You should at first try to identify the pinching spot before you hit with a hammer.
How do I oil a sewing machine handwheel?
Ans. You should apply the oil to the gears by a single drop using a dropper if possible.
What tension should my sewing machine be on?
Ans. Although it depends on the fabric you are sewing yet the standard tension is 4.5
Can I use any belt for my sewing machine?
Ans. No, you must identify the type of the belt your machine uses by default.
Does every handwheel feature a knob?
Ans. No, not every machine, especially the modern models
Final words
In simple words, with a proper knowledge on how to fix sewing machine handwheel, you just can’t only bring an instant solution to the stuck or jammed handwheel but also can avoid causing far costly damage to it and to the motor.