How to Retime a Console Serger

Burrs from thread can build in your overlock machine, causing the serger to become unaligned.

A serger is an optional part of an overlock sewing machine console. Overlock machines are used for hemming, finishing and seaming difficult fabrics. The overlock stitch is similar to a zigzag stitch on a regular sewing machine. Sergers cut the edges of the fabric as you overlock stitch it. The timing of the serger can get out of alignment, causing the fabric to bunch or not cut correctly. It is expensive to get your overlock machine retimed by a repairman, but fortunately you can fix it yourself.

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Small screwdriver
Regular point serger needle
Magnifying glass
Spray duster
Tweezers

Instructions

- 1
  
  Remove the shuttle. Open the plastic flap or slide open the window that covers your bobbin. Remove the bobbin.
- 2
  
  Use a small screwdriver to lift out the bobbin case, or shuttle. Wiggle the shuttle from side to side as you lift it to remove.
- 3
  
  Unscrew the knob on the side of the needle, remove it and replace it with a new regular point serger needle. Screw the knob to tighten the needle in place. Turn the hand wheel counterclockwise to move the needle to the lowest position.
- 4
  
  Turn the hand wheel clockwise and check the hook behind the needle. Crouch down so that you are eye level with the area behind the shuttle.
- 5
  
  Turn the hand wheel clockwise to slowly raise the needle and watch the rotating hook. It should center on the needle slightly below the scarf, or the notch on the back of the needle. If the hook does not center, loosen the three large screws on the back of it.
- 6
  
  Hold the hand wheel to keep the needle stationary and twist the hook to center it. Retighten one of the screws to keep the hook in place, but leave the other two loose.
- 7
  
  Hold a magnifying glass up to the hook once it is centered. If there is space between the point of the hook and the needle, use a screwdriver the gently pull the hook forward until it touches the needle. If the point of the hook is bent because it is too close to the needle, gently push it away with a screwdriver.
- 8
  
  Tighten the other two screws on the back of the hook assembly.
- 9
  
  Spray the shuttle assembly with spray duster to remove all debris. If there are threads stuck in the shuttle or assembly, remove them with tweezers. A clean assembly will keep the timing correct.
- 10
  
  Rotate the hand wheel counterclockwise so the race, or raised point of the shuttle assembly, is slightly to the right of the presser foot. Place the shuttle into the assembly and wiggle it back and forth until it clicks into place.