How To Release Clutch On A Sewing Machine – A Comprehensive Guide
Sewing machines are invaluable tools for crafters, designers, and home sewers. But like any mechanical device, sewing machines can sometimes malfunction or get stuck. One of the most common problems is when the clutch gets stuck, preventing the machine from operating properly.
Releasing a stuck clutch is an easy fix, but it helps to understand what the clutch does and how to safely release it on your specific machine model.
This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know!
What Is the Clutch on a Sewing Machine?
The clutch is a key component that connects the sewing machine motor to the drive mechanism that turns the needle. When engaged, it allows power to be transmitted from the motor to the needle. When disengaged, it stops this power transmission so that the needle stops moving.
Clutch Motor Industrial Sewing Machine 1/2 HP/110/220 V Shaft Size Amco, 3/4 (1750 RPM Low Speed)
The clutch allows you to stop sewing at any time without stalling the motor. It also allows safe needle positioning when threading the machine or changing accessories.
On most home sewing machines, the clutch is controlled by a lever, knob, or pedal. However, the location and method of operation varies by machine:
- Lever – Typically located just under the hand wheel. Push it away from you to disengage the clutch.
- Knob – Turn clockwise to disengage, counter-clockwise to engage. Often labeled “presser foot” or “foot control”.
- Pedal – Depress to engage, release to disengage. This hands-free control leaves your hands free for sewing.
- Electronic – Buttons or touchpads allow clutch control. Engage and release the clutch with the press of a button.
Always check your instruction manual to find the clutch and learn how to operate it on your specific sewing machine model.
Why Release the Clutch?
There are several reasons you may need to disengage the clutch while sewing:
- To position the needle – Releasing the clutch stops the needle so you can raise or lower it manually. This helps when threading the needle, changing it, or adjusting fabric placement.
- To control sewing speed – The clutch allows you to sew at varying speeds for precision work or when handling delicate fabrics.
- To stop instantly – Disengaging the clutch immediately stops the needle to prevent broken needles or stitches in unwanted spots.
- For safety – If you hit a snag or something jams the machine, the clutch stops operation before serious damage occurs.
- To wind a bobbin – On some machines, you release the clutch to disengage the needle so the motor can wind the bobbin without sewing.
- To fix problems – A stuck clutch itself can cause sewing problems you’ll need to release it to fix.
How to Release the Clutch
Releasing the clutch is usually very simple. We’ll go over the basic steps for a standard lever clutch machine:
Prepare the Machine
- Turn off and unplug the sewing machine for safety.
- Raise the needle bar to its highest position by turning the handwheel toward you.
Locate and Release Clutch
- Find the clutch lever on the side of the machine near the handwheel.
- Push the clutch lever away from you to disengage the clutch.
That’s all there is to it! The needle will now stop moving when you press the foot pedal.
Some other tips for releasing different clutch types:
- Knob – Turn the knob until it clicks and stops the needle motion.
- Pedal – Remove your foot fully off the pedal to release it.
- Electronic – Press the “clutch release” button to disengage it.
Always re-engage the clutch before sewing by moving the lever, turning the knob, depressing the pedal, or pressing the button again. Test that the needle moves before beginning your sewing project.
Troubleshooting a Stuck Clutch
In some cases, the clutch may become stuck and won’t release by using the lever, knob, etc. This can prevent the machine from running. There are a few steps you can try to get an obstinate clutch unstuck:
- Make sure you are moving the clutch control in the proper disengage direction as indicated in your machine’s manual.
- Try gently wiggling the clutch control back and forth to release tension.
- Turn the handwheel very slowly back and forth while holding the clutch control in the disengaged position.
- As a last resort, insert a flathead screwdriver into the small hole behind the handwheel and gently press straight back to force the clutch to release.
If these steps don’t work, your clutch may need professional repair. Contact a sewing machine service technician. Here is a video tutorial of how to release a locked clutch on a sewing machine.
How a Sewing Machine Clutch Works
Now that you know how to release a stuck clutch, let’s look quickly at how a sewing machine clutch works:
- An electronic or mechanical control engages the clutch.
- This connects the motor to the drive gears.
- The drive gears turn the hook, which rotates to catch the needle thread.
- At the same time, the drive gears turn the needle bar to move the needle up and down.
- This synchronized motion interlocks the top and bottom threads to create a stitch.
When disengaged, the motor disconnects from the drive mechanism so the needle stops while the motor continues running. Very clever engineering!
Sewing Machine Clutch Safety Tips
Working with a sewing machine requires safety awareness. Here are some clutch-related risks to keep in mind:
- Always disengage the clutch before removing guards/plates or reaching near moving parts like the needle. The clutch won’t automatically stop a moving needle on its own.
- Make sure clutches are working properly and fully engage/disengage. A malfunctioning clutch can start machine motion unexpectedly.
- Ensure any presser feet lifters or drop feed controls are also disengaged along with the clutch for safety.
- Pay full attention while operating the machine, and don’t rely solely on the clutch to prevent injuries from moving parts. Stay alert!
Troubleshooting Sewing Problems Related to the Clutch
If you’re experiencing sewing issues, the clutch may be involved! Here are some common clutch-related problems and fixes:
Machine jams/Won’t run
- The clutch may be stuck disengaged. Try releasing and re-engaging it.
- Broken clutch control (e.g. broken pedal cable). May need replacement.
Uneven stitching
- Clutch slipping and not fully engaged. Adjust clutch mechanism.
Needle falls out of sync
- Clutch timing may be off. Adjust timing gears/belts.
No stitch length control
- Clutch is constantly engaged. Release it for speed control.
Needle breaks
- Clutch failing to quickly stop needle and prevent collisions. Replace faulty clutch.
As you can see, taking the time to properly understand and troubleshoot your sewing machine’s clutch can really help avoid or fix a number of common problems!
FAQs About Sewing Machine Clutches
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about clutches:
What’s the difference between a clutch motor and a servo motor?
- Clutch motors run continuously when turned on. Servo motors only run when the foot pedal is pressed.
Where is the handwheel clutch located?
- The handwheel clutch is typically found on the side of the machine near the handwheel. Location varies by model.
How do you adjust a sewing machine motor clutch?
- Adjust the motor clutch screw tension and the drive belt tension as specified in the machine manual. Proper adjustments will allow smooth clutch engagement/disengagement.
Why does my needle keep moving when clutch is released?
- The clutch may be malfunctioning and not fully disengaging. Try the troubleshooting steps above. If that doesn’t work, professional service may be needed.
Can you sew without releasing the clutch?
- It’s not recommended. Sewing without ever releasing the clutch results in loss of speed/tension control and potential safety hazards.
Read: How To Properly Take Care Of Your Sewing Machine At Home
Conclusion
We hope this comprehensive sewing machine clutch guide gives you a better understanding of what the clutch does, why it’s important, how to release it, and how to troubleshoot related issues. Properly using your machine’s clutch will improve performance, prevent problems, and most importantly, help you safely create beautiful sewing projects!