quiltingnd

I have been using schmetz needles. All of a sudden my machine starting breaking the top thread after I had my local shop look at it due to clicking noise it makes. The shop claims I can't use Schmetz needles because they are too short and shear the thread. I've had the machine for a month and a half and that's the needle brand I've been using with no issues until now.

Can the needle be the cause and what needle brand do you use?

SewSydney

I have a Pfaff QE4, almost identical to your machine. I only ever use Schmetz needles and have never had an issue with thread breaking unless my tension was the problem. My Pfaff dealer only sells Schmetz needles so I'm a bit sceptical about the reason given to you. One thing that I have found important is to place my thread spool in the correct position while sewing i.e. cross wound spools like Aurifil should be in the horizontal position whereas straight wound spools should be vertical to accommodate easier feeding. (not sure if my terminology is correct - sorry). Maybe if your'e quilting use a topstitch needle that has a bigger eye or a larger size needle could help. Good luck, I hope you resolve the problem.

quiltedsunshine

If it's clicking, it could be the tension is tight (either top or bottom) and pulling the needle into the hook. Or the timing could be off a little, and the needle is hitting the hook or needle plate. Schmetz needles are NOT the problem, unless it doesn't say 130 705H on it. Schmetz does make needles with different configurations for different machines.

suern3

With my Pfaff I have found that if it isn't acting right it is usually because I don't have it threaded correctly or the bobbin is not in the right way. I have to get my book out and start at square one, step by step. Even after using this machine for over 6 years sometimes I suddenly do some odd thing with it. And it is not fussy about which brand of needle I use. I use Schmetz most of the time. If I hear clicking, it means it needs a new needle. Good luck.