Help with an old Elna
 

I have a Elna Supermatic but I can't get it to make a stictch. I think I might have the bobbin threaded wrong, but not sure. Its very difficult to thread the bobbin case as I can't see the tention where the tread go. Any advice on what the best way to thread it would be appreciated and why it won't make a stitch.
Thanks Dixie

Do you have a manual? Can you google for one? The thread needs to "click" in the bobbin area. You have to hold the bobbin with one finger creating a small amount of tension while pulling the thread through the bobbin area until you hear and feel a slight click. How is it that you can't see the bobbin area? I would suggest a better light to help you?

I can't see the bobbin area well because its behind the needle bar. I do have a manual which I have read and followed all the directions. I just can't seem to get the thread to click in the tension The needle thread doesn't pick up the bobbin thread to make a stitch. It really shouldn't be that hard to thread a bobbin .

It's not hard, you just need to pull on the bobbin thread until it clicks. If it's not clicking in place, something is wrong. I wonder if something is bent or lose in the bobbin assembly. Are the holes on the top of the bobbin as they should be? Also, do you have the correct bobbin? Just because it came with the machine, doesn't mean it actually works in the machine.

It appears to be the right bobbin. I have the holes in on the top. It fits nice in the case. I am thinking possibly the tensions might be broke off or damaged. I cannot hear a clicking when I pull the thread. I have done many other machines so I am familiar with how they work. This one is a little confusing.

Can you post a photo or two of your bobbin assembly?

Also, depending on which Supermatic model you have there should be a round tension dial in the bobbin assembly marked with numbers. The line meets one of the numbers on the dial. It can be turned with a small screw driver. Which number is it currently set on? Most of my Elnas seem to do best in the 0 to 1 range.

Elna Pictures
 

Here are some picture of the Elna. I can get the thread in by pushing down on the bobbin but can't seam to get it to go into the spring for the tension

The bobbin area needs a full cleaning. It's a fairly easy job, but can be a bit tedious and there are a couple of small screws and springs involved with removing the bobbin assembly. It looks pretty gunked up and it needs servicing. Are you up to that? Or maybe a quick visit to your local service person? I would imagine the rest of the machine needs servicing too. And possibly a new friction pulley, if the machine hasn't been used in a long time...

Hope this helps.

Also is your thread coming off the spool like this? I really can't tell from the photo. This is the way it should be inserted.