Updated at: 18-04-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

Since the 1800s, Pfaff sewing machines have been widely regarded as the best in the business. However, even the most advanced equipment require maintenance and repair. Sewing machine repairs are necessary for Pfaff sewing machines if they are malfunctioning.

Sewing machines made by Pfaff can be repaired by simply cleaning and replacing the basic component and applying lubricant. The tension settings, needles that become stuck, and darning feet can all provide a challenge. Computers have their own set of challenges when it comes to installing new software.

How Do You Service A Pfaff Sewing Machine?

Even the most expensive Pfaff sewing machines may need some troubleshooting from time to time, just like any other sewing machine. If you’re aware of common problems, you’ll be more equipped to deal with them when they arise.

Before you plunge into the ocean, take a moment to read these two cautionary words.

In the first place, a warranty is likely to be included with a new Pfaff sewing machine. This means that Pfaff is obligated to repair or replace the machine if specific circumstances are met. To avoid voiding your guarantee, it’s important to study the fine print of the warranty and find out what you can and can’t do on your own, and what you must take to a skilled expert.

1. Sewing Machine Can’t Turn On

There is nothing more disappointing than sitting down at your beautiful sewing machine with your favorite fabric and realizing that the machine won’t start! Professional help may be needed if this is a sign of a more serious electrical problem. Before you give up, though, you might want to attempt a few quick fixes.

  1. Take out the wall outlet and plug it into a working outlet. The plug can be loose, or the fuse may have blown.
  2. Make sure the cord is connected to your sewing machine by checking the connection. If you’ve lately sewn a lot with the machine, this is likely to be loose.
  3. Make sure everything is working properly on your machine. The light did not come on as soon as it started to turn on. It’s possible that you’ll need to change the bulb in the overhead light for sewing.
  4. If the machine begins to run but does not stitch or perform any other activity, you might check the pedal on your feet. The first step is to detach the pedal’s cord from the machine, then reattach it. Check for loose wires in the pedal if this doesn’t work.

2. Needle Stuck or Sewing Machine Jammed

When sewing, a jammed needle or machine is one of the most common issues. You could use this checklist to narrow down the possible causes of the problem.

  1. Incorrect threading can lead to large thread tangles under the cloth, preventing the needle from moving up or down. Remove the fabric, and then use scissors to untangle any knotted threads that may be left behind. Rethread the machine and verify its safety by lifting the presser foot and turning it off.
  2. When the needle is unable to pass through the fabric’s thickness, it gets stuck or jams. There are several fabrics that might cause this issue, such as suede and leather as well as multiple layers of cloth on the waistband and neck. It’s possible that you’re wearing more fabric than your machine can handle if this happens. If so, you might want to try a different needle.
  3. Sewing machine jams can also be caused by tension issues. Read our portion of “How Do You Repair Tension Issues” in the next post for more information on how to fix tension settings on the Pfaff machine!
  4. If you see any messy or loose lint in your bobbin, make sure to examine the machine in the bobbin. When threading the sewing machine, remove the bobbin casing and re-insert it to avoid this issue.

3. Handwheel Jammed

It looks like a huge knob on the right hand side of your sewing machine, the handwheel. To raise the needle threshold, manually turn the handwheel. Unless the handwheel has become jammed, this isn’t essential.

Sewing machine jams, like non-spinning handwheels, often have the same root cause. The most common reason is a tangled mess of threads caused by improper threading.

  • It is possible that your sewing machine is overheating. Sewing machines made by Pfaff are equipped with strong motors. The most recent versions often have an automatic shutoff mechanism that prevents the machine from sewing if the temperature inside is too high. If this occurs, simply turn the sewing machine off and give it some time to relax.
  • Your Pfaff sewing machine is going to be well taken care of, but if it isn’t, take the time to thoroughly clean it! Lint could have clogged a moving part. That’s a possibility.
  • Handwheel malfunctions can be caused by a faulty belt. This means the wheel can turn, but the needle cannot climb or fall. Sewing machine belt replacement is a do-it-yourself project, although it is really difficult mechanically. You can seek assistance from a repair shop!

4. Lubrication Problems

Some Pfaff sewing machine models necessitate regular oiling to keep all moving parts operating at their best. You may not be able to use your equipment if it hasn’t had this lubrication applied to it.

The new Pfaff models, however, are self-lubricating and do not need to be oiled at all. For information on your specific model’s oil requirements, see to the owner’s manual provided by Pfaff.

Follow the instructions in your manual, even if you possess an older or newer type that requires lubrication!

Applying oil to your machine is easy if you follow these instructions.

  1. Completely degrease and clean the device. Pouring oil on top of filth is of no use!
  2. Open the sewing machine by following the instructions in the manual and removing any thread or fabric that could be damaged.
  3. Ascertain whether or not the oil you intend to use is compatible with the Pfaff machine. No matter what you read about online, don’t use cooking oil, WD-40, or even automobile oil to fix your machine! An oil that is light enough for a precise consistency must be used.
  4. Each place should have a small amount of oil applied to it and allowed to soak in. The use of a clean rag may be required to remove any drops. The bobbin case, if you can remove it, should be removed so that you can see what’s going on!
  5. Avoid putting any oil on your needles, needle plates, or any other parts of your sewing machine that come into contact with the fabric.
  6. Once your work is done, run a plastic piece of muslin through the machine. Make sure no oil has gotten on the fabric. This manner, you’ll know for sure that the machine is safe to use again!

5. Bobbin Won’t Turn

There are numerous bobbin issues that might cause the bobbin to become stuck or refuse to spin.

  • Does your Pfaff machine come with an additional accessory, such as a bobbin and bobbin case? If this is the case, you may be using a bobbin that is either the wrong size or the wrong type. Despite their higher cost, genuine Pfaff Bobbins are worth the investment.
  • Third, problems with the bobbin can arise from sources other than the bobbin itself. Having a needle that is out of balance or damaged might cause problems with the bobbin if it hits the wrong objects when it falls. Prior to starting a new project or working for more than 10 hours, change your needle. If you use the wrong needle for your fabric, the bobbin may not turn properly, therefore be cautious while sewing with heavier fabrics.
  • Also, bobbin scratches or dings can impede smooth movement, even if they are quite rare. Even Pfaff Bobbins aren’t that pricey, so if you have any qualms, you can always switch them out!
  • Ultimately, it’s possible that you’ll have to tweak the bobbin tension. Using the thread tail as a handle, remove the bobbin’s housing and drop it. As long as your thread is unwinding smoothly, the tension is probably OK, but if it isn’t, you may need to adjust the bobbin case’s tension screw in tiny increments to loosen or tighten it.

6. Foot Pedal Issues

The foot pedal of a sewing machine, which operates like a gas pedal on a car, can overheat or emit a burning odor from time to time. There are a few simple measures you can do in order to fix your foot pump.

  1. Remove the pedal and check to see if there are any loose wires. It’s not common, but if you have any wiring problems, you’ll want to call in the pros.
  2. Take the pedal off and see if it feels warm to the touch after a few minutes of sewing. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including sewing too fast or accidently placing your foot over the pedal, which causes the pedal to turn off for long periods of time. The pedal overheats.
  3. You’ve lost the capacity to manage the flow of electricity through your machine if the pedal can only operate at high speeds and not at lower ones. Why not get a second opinion from a professional? In all other cases, go for it! (Unless, of course, you’re want to learn how to add an electronic component to your pedal).
  4. In this case, the pedal may need to be re-adjusted if it makes an unsettling clicking or ticking sound. Don’t be alarmed if the sound emerges for a little period of time and then swiftly fades away out of sight. The pedal may need to be dried out if it won’t stop, so keep an eye out for any signs of moisture inside the pedal.

7. Trouble Updating Pfaff Software

Installing and updating software on a new Pfaff machine can be one of the most challenging aspects of running the machine. MySewNet is normally available on the latest Pfaff sewing machines, as well as new embroidery and quilting equipment. New features, such as an embroidery hoop that can be accessed through your account, are made available as they become available.

Computer programs control these high-tech machines, which may be used to embroider intricate designs as well as many other things. When your smartphone gives you notifications that an IOS update is due, what do you do? At times, these high-tech sewing machines need the same thing!!

After purchasing the software and registering your MySewNet account, Pfaff makes it easy to update the software. To begin, simply select Smart Update from the Start menu.

However, those who are used to sewing machines that are mechanical may find it difficult to learn how to use and update software. If you need assistance, you can reach out to Pfaff’s Customer Support team.

8. Difficulty with Darning Foot

When using the darning foot, the Pfaff machine is difficult to set up correctly. The ability to sew free-motion requires lower feed dogs and unique presser foot settings on most Pfaff machines.

How do you darn or stitch free-motion? Rather than allowing the feed dogs to draw the fabric through for you, you control the flow of the cloth under the needle yourself.

The darning foot may be installed in your Pfaff machine to begin darning. In order for the lever to lift, make sure that your darning or presser feet are in the correct in-between position.

For normal sewing, the presser foot is either totally lowered to ensure that it can retain your fabric or the foot is raised to allow for the necessary room for the fabric to be moved out and in. To allow free-motion sewing, your darning foot should rest on a setting between the two extremes on most Pfaff models.

Once you begin the treatment, you must disconnect or remove the feed dogs. Find out how to do this on the model you’ve chosen by consulting the instructions in your owner’s manual.

How Much Does It Cost To Service A Pfaff Sewing Machine?

For a sewing machine service by Pfaff, the price depends on the situation and any additional costs incurred. At least $50 is required for a basic checkup, and $110 is required for services including minor adjustments and oiling and cleaning. Based on the Pfaff model for labor, a repairman may charge $50 an hour.

How Do You Take Apart A Pfaff Sewing Machine?

The first step is to identify your Pfaff sewing machine. To get the most out of the machine, it’s a good idea to read the instructions. If you’re not confident you can put your Pfaff sewing machine back together the way you want it, don’t disassemble it.

  1. Carefully remove the machine’s top cover.
  2. Remove the front cover by unscrewing the screws on the needle’s top.
  3. Remove the screws at the bottom of the lid from the middle.
  4. To unlock the handwheel, pull the cover back towards you.
  5. It’s time to remove the cover with the top and back, followed by the bottom cover.
  6. To finish dismantling the Pfaff sewing machine, unscrew the remaining screws.

How Do You Oil A Pfaff Sewing Machine?

  1. Your Pfaff sewing machine should be disconnected before you start stitching.
  2. Use the Pfaff model’s instruction booklet to figure out where to oil, what oils to use, and which exact oil to use.
  3. Lubricate only those parts of your sewing machine that need it, or check out this article on the best technique to lubricate your sewing machine for more information.
  4. Create a number of stitches to aid in the oil’s dispersal.
  5. Every 15 minutes, test the machine on a scrap of cloth to ensure that there are no residues that could spoil your job.
  6. To avoid drippings of oil on your fabric, wipe the sewing machine clean with the cleanest cloth and wash the machine.

Why Is The Handwheel On My Pfaff Sewing Machine Won’t Turn?

If your Pfaff sewing machine isn’t cleaned and lubricated on a regular basis, the back handwheel could get jammed. You can also check the bobbin or hook for threads and remove them. The handwheel on the Pfaff sewing machine will no longer get stuck.

Are Old Pfaff Sewing Machines Worth Anything?

There is a demand for vintage and antique Pfaff sewing machines in the market. The company’s reputation for producing high-quality sewing machines also makes these items extremely desirable. Pfaff sewing machines that have been partially or totally reconditioned can cost anywhere from $250 to $660.

Conclusion

Pfaff sewing machines can be maintained in the same way as other sewing machines. It is imperative that you spend time cleaning and lubricating in order to avoid numerous common problems.