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Old 09-27-2012, 10:53 PM
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Default Machine needles

I have been using the walking foot for some quilting and the needle keeps getting loose and falling out while I am working. It was working perfectly , needle is flat in back. Could the tension from the walking foot causing it? If so, how do you fix it?
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Old 09-27-2012, 11:22 PM
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I have had that problem. I think it is because I no longer tighten the needle in place as much as I did previously. I also have the same problem with the walking foot itself. Of course, I sew a lot, and with some speed , which causes vibration, probably another cause. I just check both screws periodically, much cheaper than the timing problems these events can cause.
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Old 09-28-2012, 07:14 AM
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I keep a screwdriver next to my machine because I just don't have the strength in my hands that I used to have. This way I can tighten the needle screw and loosen it when needed with my handy screwdriver.
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Old 09-28-2012, 07:44 AM
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I bet it is just having it tightened enough.
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Old 09-28-2012, 10:30 AM
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I try to remember to check the needle tightning screw and tighten it numerous times during the day. Takes only a few seconds and saves a BIG headache.
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Old 09-29-2012, 05:40 AM
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Look and see that the fork that goes over the needle clamp is around the shaft, not the wide part. I had a buttonholer that did this; as the fork went up and down with the needle bar, it unscrewed the needle clamp.
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Old 09-29-2012, 08:17 AM
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I keep a penny by my machine to use as a screwdriver. It never goes missing.LOL.
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Old 09-29-2012, 08:57 AM
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a penny or a screwdriver....I just don't have the hand strength I used to....
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Old 09-29-2012, 09:57 AM
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I, too, notice that the vibrations loosen the screw. Just retighten.
Another problem I had was that inside where the needle lies, something wore out and had to be replaced. I couldn't use any needle smaller than a 16 or it would slip out. Not a costly repair, but it meant a trip to the dealer.
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