Why Did the Sewing Machine Start to Work Noisily?

Last Updated on April 10, 2023

When the sewing machine start to work noisily, this was a sure sign of failure of any mechanism. With a complete Machine breakdown, it is better to conduct a technical inspection for the first imperceptible errors. Even an experienced technician cannot immediately detect the source of the malfunction.

Sewing Machine Start to Work Noisily
Image Source: Canva

Why did the sewing machine start to work noisily?

The most common causes of work failure will help you understand what to pay attention to during the initial inspection.

The Machine is not Taken Care of

After sewing several projects, textile dust and thread fragments settle in the Machine’s mechanisms. Even a small blockage of debris can make it difficult to move. Also, the oil in the moving parts of the Machine tends to dry out. 

On the other hand, Resistance on the needle causes an increase in dynamic load in almost all mechanisms, leading to the deformation of parts and equipment failure. The prevention of the Machine should be carried out timely.

Disassemble and clean the grooves of the shuttle and the main nodes of the Machine after each large sewing; in case of irregular use, it is necessary to lubricate once every two months.

Inappropriate / Unsuitable Needle

The needle can become dull from prolonged use and wear from hitting the presser foot, plate, or shuttle. Also, an incorrectly selected thickness of the needle under the row increases the Resistance when piercing the fabric.

sewing needle
Image Source: Shutterstock

It causes knocking in the hinge joints, which wears out the entire machine’s parts faster. In this case, the needle should be replaced with a thinner one or imprisoned.

Clogging of the Conveyor Rail

The narrow channel of the toothed rack accumulates the most lint. The settled dirt of the fabric throws off the trajectory of the conveyor, and every time it is lifted, it hits the needle. The problem can be solved locally: remove the needle plate and clean the blockage in the rail with a brush or an oiled cloth.

Crankshaft Problem

The groove of the crankshaft wears out easily during frequent work. There is a knocking of the thread tensioner roller against the corner. Timely replacement of the cam can prevent a serious breakdown of the Machine. Only a specialist can identify the problem and install the part.

Loose or Worn Parts

Another reason why a sewing machine might start to work noisily is due to loose or worn parts. Over time, the screws, nuts, and bolts that hold your sewing machine together can become loose, causing parts to rattle and shake.

Additionally, frequently used parts, such as the needle and bobbin, can become worn and cause noise. To fix this problem, tighten any loose parts using a screwdriver, and replace any worn parts as needed.

Tension Issues

Another common cause of a noisy sewing machine is tension issues. If the thread is not properly tensioned, it can cause the Machine to make a loud, clunking noise.

Check the tension on the Machine and make sure that the thread is properly threaded through the Machine. If you still have issues, try adjusting the tension until the noise disappears.

Shuttle Pusher Shaft

Disproportionately tightened shafts of these parts greatly affect the operation of the Machine. Longitudinal backlash should not be felt by hand, but an excessive increase in the gap can cause knocking when stringing.

Only an experienced technician knows how much to release the cone of the small shaft and what size to set the longitudinal gap for a sewing machine of a certain brand.

Clearance in the Bearings of the Thread Tensioner Connecting Rod

As a result of long work, the fastening screws of the crankshaft weaken. A backlash is formed, the part loosens, and the unscrewed screw can touch the sleeve body. If the fastener is not tightened in time, the craftsman will have to file the surface of the cover or replace the entire unit.

Motor Issues

Finally, a noisy sewing machine could be due to sewing motor issues. If the motor is not functioning properly, it can cause the Machine to make a noise. If you suspect that the motor is the problem, it may be time to take the Machine to a professional for repair.

Sewing Motor
Image Source: Shutterstock

How to Quiet a Sewing Machine?

There are a few things you can try to quiet a sewing machine:

  • Clean and oil the machine: Sometimes, a noisy machine is simply due to a lack of maintenance. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and oiling the Machine, and see if that helps reduce the noise.
  • Adjust the tension: If the thread tension is too tight, it can cause the Machine to make a lot of noise. Adjust the tension according to the fabric and thread you’re using, and see if that helps.
  • Check the needle: A bent or dull needle can cause the Machine to make a noise. Make sure the sewing machine needle is straight and sharp, and replace it if necessary.
  • Use a different thread: Some threads are noisier than others, so try using a different type of thread and see if that helps reduce the noise.
  • Add some lubricant: You can use a silicone-based lubricant on the moving parts of the Machine to help reduce the noise. Just be sure to use a lubricant that is safe for your Machine.

Conclusion

A barely audible atypical knock when the sewing machine is working can be the cause of a serious problem. To find the source of the noise, you should remove the parts one by one and rotate the mechanisms’ nodes at different frequencies.

Access to the designs of new types of machines is often difficult. When one of the parts affects the adjacent one, both its easy correction and careful filing, repair, or replacement are necessary. A timely technical inspection will save you time and money.

Ask any Question Here!