Ricoma SWD Series: Common Problems and Fixes Guide

1. Frequent Thread Breaks high likelihood

How to tell

The machine stops frequently with a 'Thread Break' error message, or you observe the thread snapping during embroidery.

Fix

1. Re-thread the machine completely, ensuring the thread passes through all guides and tension discs correctly.
2. Check the needle for burrs, bends, or dullness. Replace if necessary with the correct type and size for your fabric and thread.
3. Inspect the bobbin for proper winding, tension, and ensure it's inserted correctly into the bobbin case.
4. Clean the thread path, including tension discs, thread guides, and the rotary hook area, to remove lint or debris.
5. Adjust upper thread tension. If too tight, it can cause breaks. Refer to your machine manual for recommended settings.
6. Ensure the thread is of good quality and suitable for machine embroidery.

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

2. Skipped Stitches or Poor Stitch Quality high likelihood

How to tell

Embroidery appears loose, stitches are missing, or the design looks uneven and messy. Bobbin thread may be visible on top.

Fix

1. Replace the needle. A bent or dull needle is a primary cause of skipped stitches.
2. Check the bobbin tension. If too loose, it can cause loops on top. If too tight, it can cause skipped stitches.
3. Verify the upper thread tension. Adjust as needed to achieve balanced stitches (1/3 bobbin thread showing on the underside).
4. Ensure the fabric is properly hooped, taut, and stabilized. Loose hooping can lead to poor stitch formation.
5. Clean the rotary hook area. Lint and debris can interfere with stitch formation.
6. Check the presser foot height. If too high or too low, it can affect stitch quality. Consult your manual for adjustment.

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

3. Machine Jams or Needles Break Frequently medium likelihood

How to tell

The machine makes a loud thudding noise, stops abruptly, or the needle snaps during operation.

Fix

1. Immediately turn off the machine. Carefully remove any jammed fabric or thread.
2. Check the needle for proper insertion and ensure it's not bent. Replace if damaged.
3. Inspect the bobbin case and rotary hook for damage or thread nests. Clean thoroughly.
4. Ensure the hoop is correctly attached, tightened, and not interfering with the needle plate or head movement.
5. Verify the design is digitized correctly and not causing excessive stress on the needle (e.g., too many stitches in one area).
6. Check for loose screws or components in the needle bar or presser foot area.

Parts involved: Needles & needle bars → Rotary hooks & bobbin cases → Hoops & frames → Screws, springs & small parts →

4. Color Change Malfunction medium likelihood

How to tell

The machine fails to change colors, stops during a color change, or displays an error related to the color change mechanism.

Fix

1. Turn off and restart the machine to clear any temporary errors.
2. Manually check the color change mechanism for any obstructions, loose threads, or debris.
3. Inspect the wiring connected to the color change motor for any visible damage or disconnections.
4. If the motor is unresponsive or making unusual noises, it may need replacement. This often involves the Ricoma 17H2059-12-6B Color Change Stepping Motor.
5. Ensure all sensors related to color change are clean and unobstructed.

Ricoma 17H2059-12-6B Color Change Stepping Motor for EM, MT, TC, SWD, CHT Series

Parts involved: Motors & drivers → Sensors & switches → Cables & wiring →

5. Hooping Issues (Fabric Slipping, Incorrect Alignment) low likelihood

How to tell

Fabric shifts during embroidery, designs are misaligned, or the hoop detaches during operation.

Fix

1. Ensure the fabric is hooped tightly and evenly, without wrinkles. Use appropriate stabilizer for the fabric type.
2. Verify that the hoop arms are securely attached to the machine's drive mechanism.
3. If using a hooping station, ensure it's correctly assembled and aligned. Check for wear on the station's components.
4. For cap frames, ensure the cap is seated firmly and the frame is properly locked into the machine.
5. Inspect the hoop itself for cracks, bends, or worn-out tension screws that prevent proper tensioning.
6. Ensure the correct hoop size is selected on the machine's control panel.

Sewtalent Hooping Station Kit for Ricoma EM1010, MT, TC, SWD, CHT Series Embroidery Machines, Ricoma Cap Frame for EM-1010, TC, MT, SWD, CHT2, CHT3 Series Embroidery Machines

Parts involved: Hoops & frames → Screws, springs & small parts →