bdschafer

I've had my Brother 1500 for about 6 years. It seemed to work great for many years, but seems to be getting touchie the last couple of years!?!? What is happening is I'll come to a seam corner and the FM foot jumps, doesn't move and will break the thread. I've read go slow and I do, but if there are 4 layers it jumps and sounds awful!! I've tried putting more pressure on the foot, but still happens.. If I use a larger needle, it's even worse..It's like the motor isn't strong enough to push the needle through!!!
Anyway. if anyone has any suggestion, I sure would like that and if I were to get a more powerful machine, what would it be???
Thanks for your help, love this board...Bette

Onebyone

I have this machine and every once in a while I'll have this happen. I stop when I hear the stall and manually turn the wheel until the needle goes get over the hump. It seems some humps are more dense then others in the same quilt. If it starts happening all the time I'll buy a new one. I will not sew on any machine that frustrates me.

Prism99

The juki 2010q has a very strong motor. That's what I would get.

ManiacQuilter2

Have you had it in for servicing?? My Bernina actually locked up on me because there were so many dust bunnies that had gather in the far right back where I could not access. Check you manual to see when you should have it serviced. DSM are just like car, there is maintenance involved with most.

quiltedsunshine

I agree with ManiacQuilter2. It just may be time for a service. If you sew every day, your machine should be serviced every year. Otherwise, don't go more than 5 years without a service. The presser foot shaft can freeze up if not oiled regularly. Sometimes the old oil gums things up, and needs to be removed.

Peckish

Why don't you take it in for service before giving up on it?? It would be cheaper than buying a new machine. I own 7 machines and the 1500 is by far my favorite. I've never had a problem with a lack of power. And if you do give up on it, send it to me - I'd love to have a backup 1500!

Onebyone

The machine is so easy to take the housing off and deep clean. Just don't take the hand wheel off. It is on a clutch and very hard to get back together, takes three hands and standing on one foot!