1. The switching pawl (lever on the top cover that switches from zigzag to cam patterns) may be engaged in the cam or automatic pattern side. Check that first. For zigzag application, the lever must be engaged in the zigzag side (lever pulled back toward the operator). The stitch width dial is then used to provide your choice of width. -------------- 2. It is common, due to oil varnishes, that the switching pawl that is actuated by this lever is stuck between the zigzag and the automatic position, thus preventing the transmission of power to either the zigzag cam or the automatic pattern cams and to the needle. The best way to detect this is to remove the top cover. You can then switch the lever back and forth to observe if the switching pawl engages firmly into either of the receiving forks. If the switching pawl is sticking, a few drops of certain solvents are applied by a technician on the switching pawl support. The switch lever can be rapidly switched back and forth until you see the switching pawl engage into the receiving forks and you hear a crisp clicking during each engagement. This repair can be permanent or it may create only a temporary fix due to the amount of oil varnishes on the parts. If the machine is heavily varnished, it suggested that the parts be disassembled and cleaned for flawless performance. If the machine had been sprayed with WD-40, petroleum based solvents like mineral spirits will not break down these varnishes. A caution regarding solvents...DO NOT USE (WD-40) as your solvent. WD-40 is a marvelous product for its intended application as a water displacement device. It is not to be used for lubricating a sewing machine. Note: "Bernina Technical Information bulletin #1" issued in 1982, forbade the use of such spray lubricants and solvents. SewTechnical Home
Answers & Comments
1. The switching pawl (lever on the top cover that switches from zigzag to cam patterns) may be engaged in the cam or automatic pattern side. Check that first.
For zigzag application, the lever must be engaged in the zigzag side (lever pulled back toward the operator). The stitch width dial is then used to provide your choice of width.
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2. It is common, due to oil varnishes, that the switching pawl that is actuated by this lever is stuck between the zigzag and the automatic position, thus preventing the transmission of power to either the zigzag cam or the automatic pattern cams and to the needle.
The best way to detect this is to remove the top cover. You can then switch the lever back and forth to observe if the switching pawl engages firmly into either of the receiving forks. If the switching pawl is sticking, a few drops of certain solvents are applied by a technician on the switching pawl support. The switch lever can be rapidly switched back and forth until you see the switching pawl engage into the receiving forks and you hear a crisp clicking during each engagement. This repair can be permanent or it may create only a temporary fix due to the amount of oil varnishes on the parts.
If the machine is heavily varnished, it suggested that the parts be disassembled and cleaned for flawless performance. If the machine had been sprayed with WD-40, petroleum based solvents like mineral spirits will not break down these varnishes.
A caution regarding solvents...DO NOT USE (WD-40) as your solvent. WD-40 is a marvelous product for its intended application as a water displacement device. It is not to be used for lubricating a sewing machine. Note: "Bernina Technical Information bulletin #1" issued in 1982, forbade the use of such spray lubricants and solvents. SewTechnical Home