Ann The Gran Community

Today, in the span of about 20 minutes, I broke 3 needles.  The first 2 I realized too late, they weren't tightened enough.  The 3rd one is a mystery.  I've looked at the troubleshooting and have done everything it says to do.  I noticed there are now scratches on the throat plate from the needles breaking.  Is this something a certified technician will have to fix?  I'm afraid to use it in case I break any more needles and damage it further.  

Before you go to a technician you might try checking your upper threading.  The tension may be too tight.  Embroidery needles sometimes have more flexibility than standard needles.  If the thread is tight it will bend the needle enough strike the plate. 

I saw a tension test here in a blog.  It is http://www.annthegran.com/cs/blogs/avid-embroiderer/archive/2008/07/03/the-avid-embroiderer-presents-needles-july-3-2008.aspx.

That may show some clues. 

Sue

Check the spool cap to make sure the thread is not snagging on a rough spot - turn the spool around or file away the rough spot with an emery board or nail file. 

Also check the spool pin to see if the thread is falling off the spool and wrapping around the pin - a thread sock will help prevent this.

I would leave the tension at the factory setting.