indysheart

[ATTACH=CONFIG]489234[/ATTACH] when I place bobbin in.

[ATTACH=CONFIG]489235[/ATTACH]

After I bring needle down to catch bobbin thread a few times.

nanna-up-north

My first 15-91 had similar problems. What I discovered was that the bobbin case was damaged. I'm not sure what you call the little piece you grab to take the bobbin case out.... but it wasn't snug against the case and the thread was catching on it when the top thread would loop around. Try and watch what is happening as you turn the handwheel toward you to make a stitch. Perhaps something is hanging up. I found that bobbin cases for model 15s are way cheaper than the ones for FWs. I got mine from sew-classic and I've not had a problem since.

Also, when I'm quilting I've noticed that the top thread won't pick up the bottom thread unless the presser foot lever is down. I don't think that sounds like your problem but I thought I'd mention it as well.

I know how frustrating it can be when your machine isn't working well but it doesn't sound like it's a major problem. After all, wasn't it working just fine before?

miriam

If that little piece Jean is talking about doesn't go flat the bobbin can fall out, too.

indysheart

Thanks I got it to pick up finally. I think two things, it wasn't snug and I had it trying to pull the wrong way. Except now I am getting bunches. It sews ok for a bit, then a huge tangled mess it was working fine before so I am sure it's user error. Like it will be : oh, duh. When all is said and done. Lol.

indysheart

Ok. I tried to upload a photo. But the top thread is now catching on something when I bring it down. With bobbin in and with bobbin out. So if I get it to pull bottom up I get thread bunching and tangling underneath my sewing item. I'm getting very frustrated. I will try a new bobbin holder. Could it be the bobbin or thread? Got size 15 bobbins and thread from walmart. I'll try the original bobbin that cane with the machine and see if that makes a difference.

miriam

Make sure you have the thread through the tension correctly and it is adjusted right. Make sure the needle is in right and thread going the right direction. I haven't seen a 15 Singer or clone that didn't benefit from taking apart and cleaning the tension - then a good adjustment. It is a 10 minute job unless you haven't done it a few times. You will need a service manual or exploded diagram for that tension - then be careful. Everything has to go back in the right order and in the right direction or it won't work right - you'll get those kinds of loops and other kinds of problems. Then you will have to spend time adjusting the tension to get nice stitches. Once you learn how to deal with the tension you should have a nice machine. The TFSR manual is a good one to have around: http://www.tfsr.org/publications/tec...achine_manual/

miriam

Some times you have to clean the bobbin case. I take the spring off and clean with some rubbing alcohol. Then put it back on and adjust the bobbin tension. Be very careful - those are tiny screws and easy to lose. Get all lint out of the bobbin/feed dog area, too.

Rodney

It's a good idea to take small things apart over a towel. That way tiny screws don't bounce away somewhere when you drop them.
Rodney

miriam

I have a sheet magnet that is very helpful.