There are two steps, and you’ll learn how to replace tension assembly on sewing machine. First, we’ll teach you how to remove the thread tensioner and pull out the assembly. This article will also discuss adjustment tips.

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Besides the tension, are you also having issues with your sewing machine timing? Consider our article on how to fix sewing machine timing to solve this problem and keep your unit working smoothly.

How To Replace Tension Assembly On Sewing Machine Yourself

Step 1. Remove the front part of the sewing machine

Read and study the manual of the specific sewing machine you have
Find the faceplate at the front of the sewing machine
Remove the faceplate

Step 2. Pull out the tension assembly

Rotate the tensioner dial and if the tension on the thread remains the same, pull out the tension assembly
Loosen the set screw by rotating it to the left
Hold the thread tension assembly with your fingers tightly
Pull the thread tension assembly out and towards you
Plug the replacement tension assembly into the sewing machine
Secure it in place via the screw

How To Adjust The Tension On A Sewing Machine

Basic sewing machine tension adjustment

Basic sewing machine tension adjustment is what you’ll do to maintain your sewing machine. It’s also relatively easy to do, but you should still consult your sewing machine’s manual.

Select one thread color to fill the bobbin
Set the sewing machine on medium speed
Thread the sewing machine with a new needle
Set the stitch length you use often and the upper-tension regulator at the middle of its range
Sew to check the stitches and adjust the tension via the bobbin spring
Tighten the bobbin spring if the bobbin thread is visible on the upper layer of the fabric
Loosen the bobbin spring if the needle thread is visible underneath the fabric
Remember the tension setting for this thread to produce the stitch you want, so you’ll have a reference for the bobbin screw position in this instance

Temporary sewing machine tension adjustment

Besides the basic sewing machine tension adjustment, you might also need to adjust for some occasions temporarily. For example, you will make a temporary adjustment when you’re changing the fabric, stitches, or thread.

Select the needle thread and bobbin thread
Fill the bobbin and thread the sewing machine to test sewing
Observe the adjustments needed for your stitches
If your tension dial adjustment does not suffice, take off the second bobbin case
Move the screw to tighten or loosen it until you get the perfect tension
Light threads on the needle and bobbin will have balanced tensions
Heavy threads on the needle and bobbin will require higher tensions
Heavy materials will be better with light tension

What Tension Should My Sewing Machine Be On?

The tension that you must use for your sewing machine depends on the project. However, it should be easy to know the correct sewing machine tension since the stitch quality will be good on both sides of the fabric. You’ll also know that the tension is proper when the seam is elastic and durable.

Signs of balanced tension

The knot between the top thread and bottom thread is hidden between the top fabric layers
Strong and elastic seam
Stitches are even and consistent on both sides of the material

Signs of unbalanced tension

The knot between the top thread and bottom thread is visible on the left side when the lower tension is too loose
The knot between the top thread and bottom thread is visible on the right side when the upper tension is too loose
Puckering seam or gap in the seam

How To Adjust Tension On Sewing Machine Bobbin

Find the screw on the bobbin case
Turn the screw on either side to increase or decrease the tension
Always make small adjustments and test each time
Tighten the bobbin tension to fix backlash or when the bobbin thread keeps unwinding, but the machine stops sewing due to a very fine bobbin thread
Loosen the bobbin tension to fix the bobbin thread that won’t unwind due to being too heavy or thick

You can also read this article on how to put a bobbin in a sewing machine for more tips regarding this part of the machine.

What Is A Tension Assembly On A Sewing Machine?

The sewing machine’s tension assembly is the part responsible for adding resistance to the top thread. This way, the stitches will look good and equal, and the seam will stay durable since the top and bottom thread will interlock successfully. Some sewing machines also use tension plates where the thread can go in between.

The top thread resistance is stronger than the bottom of the top thread when the machine pulls the bottom thread to the top. Therefore, you can’t also see the top thread underneath the material. On the other hand, you won’t see the bottom thread at the top of the fabric if the bottom thread resistance is stronger and the top thread is pulled underneath the material.

Conclusion

Was this article helpful? To recap how to replace tension assembly on sewing machine, you’ll remove the faceplate then pull out the tension assembly. You can also adjust the tension of the unit via the knob to ensure quality stitches and seam.

Furthermore, make sure to learn how to set up a sewing machine. You will benefit from this tutorial to ensure that you won’t have issues while sewing.