Tajima TMCR Series: Common Problems & Fixes Guide

1. Frequent Thread Breaks high likelihood

How to tell

The machine stops frequently, displaying a thread break error or simply stopping with a visible broken thread. This can happen during stitching or at color changes.

Fix

1. Re-thread the machine completely, ensuring the thread passes through all guides and tension discs correctly.
2. Check the needle for bends, burrs, or dullness. Replace the needle if any damage is found.
3. Inspect the thread path for any burrs or sharp edges on thread guides, tension discs, or the needle plate. Smooth any rough spots or replace damaged components.
4. Adjust upper thread tension. If too tight, it can snap. If too loose, it can cause tangles that lead to breaks. Adjust in small increments.
5. Check bobbin tension. Incorrect bobbin tension can also contribute to upper thread breaks.
6. Ensure the thread is appropriate for the fabric and needle size being used.

Parts involved: Needles & needle bars → Thread path & tension → Rotary hooks & bobbin cases →

2. Skipped Stitches or Poor Stitch Quality high likelihood

How to tell

Embroidery appears loose, stitches are missing in areas, or there are loops on the top or bottom of the fabric. The design may look uneven or distorted.

Fix

1. Verify the needle is inserted correctly, fully seated, and facing the right direction.
2. Replace the needle; a bent or dull needle is a common cause of skipped stitches.
3. Check and adjust thread tension (both upper and bobbin). Imbalanced tension is a primary cause of poor stitch quality.
4. Inspect the rotary hook for lint buildup, burrs, or damage. Clean the hook area thoroughly and ensure it rotates freely.
5. Check the timing of the machine. If the needle and hook timing are off, stitches will be skipped. This often requires a technician, but a visual check can sometimes reveal significant misalignment.
6. Ensure the fabric is properly hooped and stabilized. Movement of the fabric during stitching can lead to skipped stitches.

Parts involved: Needles & needle bars → Thread path & tension → Rotary hooks & bobbin cases → Hoops & frames →

3. Cutter Not Trimming Thread medium likelihood

How to tell

Threads are not cut cleanly at the end of a color change or design segment, leaving long tails. The machine may display a cutter error.

Fix

1. Clean the cutter area. Lint and thread scraps can jam the mechanism. Use tweezers and compressed air.
2. Inspect the cutter blades for dullness or damage. Worn blades will not cut effectively.
3. Check for any obstructions preventing the cutter from moving freely.
4. Verify the cutter timing. If the cutter activates too early or too late, it won't trim properly. Consult your machine manual for adjustment procedures.
5. Check the cutter motor connection and ensure it's receiving power. If the motor is faulty, the cutter won't operate.

If the entire assembly is faulty, consider replacing the Tajima High-Speed Plastic Cutter Assembly FD Motor for TMFX, TMEZ, TMBP-SC, TMAR-KC, TMCR Series.

Parts involved: Cutters & trimmers → Motors & drivers → Screws, springs & small parts →

4. Machine Making Unusual Noises or Vibrations medium likelihood

How to tell

Grinding, squealing, knocking, or excessive vibration during operation. This can indicate mechanical issues.

Fix

1. Stop the machine immediately. Do not continue running it with unusual noises.
2. Inspect all visible belts for wear, fraying, or looseness. Tighten or replace as necessary.
3. Check pulleys and gears for damage, cracks, or loose set screws.
4. Lubricate moving parts according to your machine's maintenance schedule. Lack of lubrication can cause squealing.
5. Check for loose screws or components throughout the machine, especially around the head and frame.
6. Inspect shafts and bearings for excessive play or roughness when turned manually. Worn bearings can cause grinding noises.

Check the condition of the Tajima MBL S5M625 Timing Belt 25mm, MBL S5M1225 Main Shaft Motor Belt 30mm, Tajima 32 Teeth Synchronous Belt Pulley, Tajima 501457010000 W25-60 Timing Pulley, and Tajima W35-16 Timing Pulley Synchronous Wheel.

Parts involved: Belts, pulleys & gears → Shafts, bearings & bushings → Lubrication & maintenance → Screws, springs & small parts →

5. Needle Bar Not Moving or Sticking low likelihood

How to tell

A specific needle bar fails to move up and down, or moves sluggishly, preventing stitching with that needle. The machine may stop with an error.

Fix

1. Manually check the needle bar for any obstructions (e.g., tangled thread, debris) that might be preventing its movement.
2. Apply a small amount of machine oil to the needle bar guide and move the bar up and down manually to check for smooth operation. If it's stiff, it may need further cleaning or lubrication.
3. Inspect the needle bar driving mechanism (e.g., connecting rod, crank) for looseness or damage.
4. Check the needle bar selector mechanism. If it's not engaging or disengaging correctly, the bar might remain stuck.
5. If the issue persists, there might be internal mechanical damage or a problem with the solenoid/actuator controlling the needle bar, which may require a technician.

Parts involved: Needles & needle bars → Lubrication & maintenance → Head & mechanical parts → Solenoids & magnets →