If you want to learn how to rewire a sewing machine motor, you can simplify it into five steps. However, please be careful in doing electrical work on your unit if you’re inexperienced. Consider bringing the machine to a professional if you’re not confident with your electrical knowledge for the safety of the device and yourself.
What about simpler repairs and troubleshooting? The good news is we also discussed how to service a sewing machine in a separate article. Feel free to check that out, and we’re sure you can do it even as a beginner.
How To Rewire A Sewing Machine Motor Yourself
Please note that sewing machines vary in their internal wiring. This is only a general guide because the specifics will depend on the unit you have. Please consult a professional instead of experimenting with your sewing machine.
Step 1. Reveal the internal wiring of the sewing machine
- Make sure the sewing machine is turned off
- Locate the screws and bolts that hold the wiring and motor at the back of the machine
- Remove the motor from the sewing machine to access the wiring
- Check the condition of the light cable and disconnect it from the motor assembly
Step 2. Disconnect the light from the motor
- If the light on your sewing machine does not work, check the light cable because it might be damaged
- Remove the screws to take off the cord
- Connect the bottom part of a new cord to the motor and use crimp terminals where they’re needed
- Heat shrink to improve the wire insulation and fasten the terminals with nuts
- Install the new wiring to the light and connect it like the one you removed
- Test the light if it will work
Step 3. Check and fix the main cord
- Check the cord that connects the unit to the main outlet and pedal
- Replace the damaged wires if there are any and wire them using the terminals as a guide
- Check the connector for the sewing machine and replace the wires that are damaged
Step 4. Rewire the main connector
- To repair the main connector, undo the bolts and nuts, typically at the end of the plug or where the wiring exits
- Rewire if needed using a connector and pins
Step 5. Rewire the pedal cable
- Disassemble the pedal plug by unscrewing the bolt
- Remove the pads that hold the wires to rewire them
- Test the sewing machine
Why Does My Sewing Machine Motor Run But Nothing Moves?
If you notice that your sewing machine motor makes a buzzing sound, yet it doesn’t run, you may be dealing with a faulty motor. It’s better to get it checked and replaced rather than meddling with the wires. Some other common sewing machine motor issues may also be from the following:
Check the foot pedal
Try applying pressure on the foot pedal to see if the machine will run. If not, it’s best to check the pedal for issues. Here is how a sewing machine foot pedal works to understand its mechanism better.
Thread bunching up
Check your sewing machine for thread bunching up because it can lock the drive gears, eventually affecting the motor. Detangle the thread by removing the needle from the unit or clean the shuttle race. One of the ways to prevent thread bunching up is threading the sewing machine correctly.
Wiring issues
Check for damaged wires because they can fail the sewing machine. You also want to test your outlet because it might be the one with issues. Finally, if your machine won’t turn on, check your connections.
Is your sewing machine not running as smoothly? Learn how to unfreeze a sewing machine in our separate article.
Why Is My Sewing Machine Motor Smoking?
When the pulley does not spin simultaneously with the motor, the latter can burn out and smoke. Therefore, you want to check the belts in the motor if they need replacement or reinstallation to ensure that that motor won’t need to overwork. To solve this issue, loosen up the belt by lubricating it.
Once the belt is loose, the motor should spin successfully. Never use a smoking sewing machine because you might’ve accidentally added oil to some parts, such as the motor casing where it overheats. Instead, allow the machine to cool down and wipe off the oil in the motor.
Why Does My Sewing Machine Motor Get Hot?
- Wrong power source which exhausts the motor
- The area where you’re working is hot
- Poor ventilation, so make sure the openings are clear as indicated by the University of California Riverside
- You’re using the sewing machine for too long
- The demand for the sewing machine is too much
How Long Do Sewing Machine Motors Last?
A sewing machine motor can last anywhere from 5 to 40 years. Remember that there are antique and vintage units working to this day. However, proper use and maintenance will ultimately dictate your motor’s longevity.
Conclusion
Was this article helpful? We discussed how to rewire a sewing machine motor, which starts with revealing the internal wiring, disconnecting the light, fixing the main cord, rewiring the main connector, and then the pedal cable. However, it’s always best to bring your unit to a professional if you’re unfamiliar with electronics and wiring.
If you think the unit can’t be salvaged, you can check what to do with a broken sewing machine.