Brother SM1704 Common Problems and Troubleshooting
This article provides troubleshooting tips for common problems that may arise with the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine. The Brother SM1704 is a reliable and user-friendly sewing machine ideal for everyday sewing and mending tasks.
Manufactured by Brother Industries, Ltd., this lightweight and portable machine offers a variety of features, including 17 unique built-in stitches, a four-step auto-size buttonholer, and quick-change sewing feet. It also includes ease-of-use features such as a jam-resistant Quick-Set™ drop-in top bobbin and automatic bobbin winding system.
In case you encounter any issues with your Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine, this article will guide you through troubleshooting steps to help resolve common problems.
Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine Overview
The Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine is a lightweight and full-size sewing machine designed for everyday sewing and mending tasks. It offers a range of features that make it versatile and user-friendly. Here is a summary of the product details:
| Features | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Brand | Brother |
| Manufacturer Part Number | SM1704 |
| Manufacturer | Brother Industries, Ltd |
| Assembled Product Weight | 13 lbs |
| Model | SM1704 |
| Assembled Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 5.80 x 15.40 x 12.10 Inches |
Causes of Common Problems with the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine
This section will address various possible problems that users may encounter while using the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine and provide troubleshooting solutions for each problem.
1. Machine not turning on
Description: The sewing machine does not power on when the power switch is turned on.
Cause: The power cord may not be properly connected or the power source may be faulty.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure that the power cord is securely plugged into a functioning power outlet.
- Check the power cord for any signs of damage or wear. Replace if necessary.
- If the machine still does not turn on, try using a different power outlet to rule out a faulty power source.
2. Needle not moving up and down
Description: The needle of the sewing machine is not moving up and down while sewing.
Cause: The machine may be in the bobbin winding mode or the handwheel may be disengaged.
Troubleshooting:
- Check if the machine is in the bobbin winding mode. If so, switch it back to sewing mode.
- Ensure that the handwheel is properly engaged. If it is disengaged, turn it towards you to engage it.
- If the needle still does not move, there may be an issue with the machine’s internal mechanism. Consider contacting customer service for assistance.
3. Uneven stitches
Description: The stitches produced by the sewing machine are uneven in length or tension.
Cause: Improper threading, incorrect tension settings, or a damaged needle can cause uneven stitches.
Troubleshooting:
- Re-thread the machine, ensuring that the thread is properly guided through all the thread guides and the tension control dial.
- Check the tension settings and adjust them as needed. Experiment with different tension settings until you achieve balanced stitches.
- Inspect the needle for any signs of damage or wear. Replace the needle if necessary.
- Make sure you are using the correct needle size and type for the fabric you are sewing.
4. Thread bunching underneath the fabric
Description: The thread forms loops or tangles underneath the fabric instead of creating smooth stitches.
Cause: Incorrect threading, incorrect bobbin placement, or tension issues can lead to thread bunching.
Troubleshooting:
- Check the threading of both the upper thread and the bobbin thread. Ensure they are properly threaded through the machine.
- Make sure the bobbin is correctly placed in the bobbin case and that the bobbin thread is properly pulled through the tension spring.
- Adjust the tension settings. If the upper thread is too tight, it can cause the thread to bunch underneath the fabric. Experiment with different tension settings to achieve the desired result.
5. Skipped stitches
Description: The sewing machine skips stitches, leaving gaps in the fabric.
Cause: A dull or damaged needle, incorrect needle size for the fabric, or incorrect threading can result in skipped stitches.
Troubleshooting:
- Replace the needle with a new one. A dull or damaged needle can cause the machine to skip stitches.
- Ensure that you are using the correct needle size and type for the fabric you are sewing.
- Check the threading of the machine, both for the upper thread and the bobbin thread. Re-thread if necessary, following the correct threading path.
- If the issue persists, there may be a timing problem with the machine. Consider seeking professional repair assistance.
6. Bobbin thread not catching
Description: The sewing machine fails to catch the bobbin thread, resulting in no stitches being formed.
Cause: Improper bobbin placement, incorrect threading, or a problem with the bobbin case can prevent the bobbin thread from being caught.
Troubleshooting:
- Check that the bobbin is correctly placed in the bobbin case and that the bobbin thread is properly pulled through the tension spring.
- Re-thread the machine, ensuring that the upper thread and the bobbin thread are properly threaded through their respective guides and tension control.
- If the bobbin case is damaged or worn, consider replacing it.
7. Fabric not feeding properly
Description: The fabric does not move smoothly through the machine while sewing.
Cause: Incorrect presser foot pressure, incorrect feed dog height, or a problem with the feed dog mechanism can lead to improper fabric feeding.
Troubleshooting:
- Adjust the presser foot pressure according to the thickness of the fabric. Increase the pressure for thicker fabrics and decrease it for lighter fabrics.
- Check the feed dog height. If it is too low or too high, adjust it to ensure proper fabric feeding.
- If the feed dogs are not moving or engaging properly, there may be a mechanical issue. Consider seeking professional repair assistance.
8. Loud or strange noises
Description: The sewing machine produces loud or unusual noises during operation.
Cause: Loose parts, tangled thread, or foreign objects in the machine can cause strange noises.
Troubleshooting:
- Turn off the machine and unplug it from the power source.
- Inspect the machine for any loose parts, such as screws or accessories, and tighten them if necessary.
- Check for tangled thread or fabric debris around the needle area or the bobbin case. Remove any obstructions carefully.
- If the noise persists, there may be a mechanical issue. Consider seeking professional repair assistance.
9. Needle thread keeps breaking
Description: The thread on the needle keeps breaking while sewing.
Cause: Incorrect threading, incorrect tension settings, or a damaged needle can cause the needle thread to break.
Troubleshooting:
- Re-thread the machine, making sure the thread is properly guided through all the thread guides and the tension control dial.
- Check the tension settings and adjust them if needed.
- Inspect the needle for any burrs or sharp edges that may be damaging the thread. Replace the needle if necessary.
- Ensure that the bobbin is wound correctly and inserted properly.
10. Machine jams or stitches get stuck
Description: The sewing machine gets jammed or the stitches get stuck while sewing.
Cause: Incorrect threading, tangled thread, or a problem with the bobbin case can lead to machine jams.
Troubleshooting:
- Turn off the machine and unplug it from the power source.
- Carefully remove the fabric and any tangled thread from the machine.
- Inspect the threading, both for the upper thread and the bobbin thread. Re-thread if necessary, following the correct threading path.
- Check the bobbin case for any signs of damage or obstructions. Clean the bobbin case and remove any debris.
- If the issue persists, there may be a mechanical problem. Consider seeking professional repair assistance.
11. Machine not creating buttonholes properly
Description: The sewing machine does not create buttonholes accurately or consistently.
Cause: Incorrect buttonhole settings, incorrect positioning, or a damaged buttonhole foot can affect buttonhole creation.
Troubleshooting:
- Refer to the instruction manual for the correct buttonhole settings. Follow the step-by-step instructions to set up the machine for buttonhole stitching.
- Ensure that the fabric is properly positioned and secured for buttonhole stitching.
- Inspect the buttonhole foot for any signs of damage. Replace the foot if necessary.
- Practice creating buttonholes on scrap fabric to get familiar with the machine’s buttonhole feature.
12. Machine not sewing in reverse
Description: The sewing machine does not sew in reverse when the reverse lever is engaged.
Cause: Incorrect positioning of the reverse lever or a problem with the machine’s reverse mechanism can prevent reverse sewing.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure that the reverse lever is properly engaged. Refer to the instruction manual for the correct positioning of the reverse lever.
- Check if there are any obstructions or tangled threads around the reverse mechanism. Remove any obstructions carefully.
- If the machine still does not sew in reverse, there may be a mechanical issue. Consider seeking professional repair assistance.
13. Machine not creating zigzag stitches
Description: The sewing machine does not create zigzag stitches when the zigzag stitch selector is chosen.
Cause: Incorrect stitch selector settings, incorrect threading, or a problem with the machine’s zigzag mechanism can affect zigzag stitching.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure that the stitch selector is set to the zigzag stitch. Refer to the instruction manual for the correct settings.
- Re-thread the machine, making sure the thread is properly guided through all the thread guides and the tension control dial.
- If the machine still does not create zigzag stitches, there may be a mechanical issue. Consider seeking professional repair assistance.
14. Thread keeps tangling on the bobbin
Description: The thread on the bobbin tangles or forms loops while sewing.
Cause: Incorrect bobbin placement, improper bobbin winding, or a problem with the bobbin tension can cause thread tangling.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure that the bobbin is correctly placed in the bobbin case and that the thread is properly pulled through the tension spring.
- Check the bobbin winding. If the thread is not evenly wound, remove the bobbin and re-wind it carefully.
- Adjust the bobbin tension if needed. Consult the instruction manual for guidance on adjusting the bobbin tension.
15. Machine not feeding multiple layers of fabric
Description: The sewing machine struggles to feed multiple layers of fabric evenly.
Cause: Insufficient presser foot pressure, incorrect needle size, or a problem with the feed dog mechanism can affect fabric feeding.
Troubleshooting:
- Increase the presser foot pressure to ensure better grip on the fabric layers. Refer to the instruction manual for guidance on adjusting the presser foot pressure.
- Ensure that you are using the correct needle size and type for the thickness and type of fabric you are sewing.
- Check the feed dog mechanism. If the feed dogs are not moving or engaging properly, there may be a mechanical issue. Consider seeking professional repair assistance.
16. Tension dial not adjusting properly
Description: The tension dial of the sewing machine does not adjust properly, or the tension does not change as expected.
Cause: Dust or debris, improper threading, or a problem with the tension dial can affect the tension adjustment.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure that the machine is clean from dust or debris that may interfere with the tension dial. Clean the machine carefully according to the instruction manual.
- Re-thread the machine, making sure the thread is properly guided through all the thread guides and the tension control dial.
- If the tension dial still does not adjust properly, there may be a problem with the dial itself. Consider seeking professional repair assistance.
17. Light bulb not working
Description: The light bulb of the sewing machine does not illuminate.
Cause: A burnt-out light bulb or a loose connection can cause the light to stop working.
Troubleshooting:
- Turn off the machine and unplug it from the power source.
- Check the light bulb for any signs of damage or if it appears burnt out. Replace the light bulb if necessary.
- Ensure that the light bulb is securely screwed into the socket.
- If the light still does not work, there may be a problem with the wiring or the light socket. Consider seeking professional repair assistance.
18. Limited stitch options
Description: The sewing machine offers limited stitch options or does not produce the
desired stitch patterns.
Cause: The Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine has a limited number of built-in stitch options.
Troubleshooting:
The Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine is designed to provide basic stitching options. If you require more advanced stitch patterns, you may need to consider upgrading to a different sewing machine model that offers a wider variety of stitches.
19. Difficulties with thread tension adjustment
Description: Adjusting the thread tension on the sewing machine is challenging or does not produce the desired results.
Cause: Inadequate understanding of tension adjustment, improper threading, or a problem with the tension mechanism can make tension adjustment difficult.
Troubleshooting:
- Refer to the instruction manual for detailed guidance on tension adjustment for different types of stitches and fabrics.
- Re-thread the machine, ensuring that the thread is properly guided through all the thread guides and the tension control dial.
- Practice on scrap fabric to understand how different tension settings affect the stitch quality.
20. Limited workspace or small sewing area
Description: The sewing machine has a limited workspace or is not suitable for large or bulky sewing projects.
Cause: The Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine is a compact and portable model, designed primarily for small to medium-sized sewing tasks.
Troubleshooting:
If you require a larger workspace or need to handle larger projects, you may consider upgrading to a sewing machine model with a larger extension table or more spacious sewing area.
21. Limited speed control options
Description: The sewing machine offers limited speed control options, making it difficult to sew at a preferred speed.
Cause: The Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine has a limited range of speed control options.
Troubleshooting:
The Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine typically offers a foot pedal for speed control. Practice using the foot pedal to achieve a comfortable sewing speed. Alternatively, consider upgrading to a sewing machine model with more advanced speed control features.
22. Limited buttonhole size options
Description: The sewing machine offers limited buttonhole size options, and the desired buttonhole size is not available.
Cause: The Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine has predefined buttonhole sizes, and custom buttonhole sizes may not be available.
Troubleshooting:
If you require specific buttonhole sizes that are not available on the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine, you may need to consider a sewing machine model that offers more flexibility in buttonhole size selection or consider manually creating buttonholes using different stitching techniques.
23. Limited accessory options
Description: The sewing machine has limited accessory options, and specific accessory needs may not be fulfilled.
Cause: The Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine comes with a basic set of accessories.
Troubleshooting:
If you require specific accessories that are not included with the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine, consider purchasing compatible accessories separately or explore other sewing machine models that offer a wider range of accessories.
24. Difficulty in threading the needle
Description: Threading the needle of the sewing machine is challenging or time-consuming.
Cause: The needle threading mechanism of the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine may require manual threading.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure that you have good lighting to see the needle eye clearly.
- Practice threading the needle using the built-in needle threader, if available.
- If using the needle threader is difficult, consider using a handheld needle threader or threading the needle manually.
25. Inadequate user manual or instructions
Description: The user manual or instructions provided with the sewing machine may be insufficient or unclear.
Cause: The user manual for the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine may not provide detailed guidance on specific sewing techniques or troubleshooting.
Troubleshooting:
Consider seeking additional resources such as online tutorials, sewing books, or joining sewing communities to learn more about specific techniques and troubleshooting methods for the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine.
You can also explore online forums or community groups where fellow Brother SM1704 users share their experiences and tips for using the sewing machine effectively.
If you encounter any specific issues or have questions about using the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine, consider contacting Brother’s customer support or referring to the manufacturer’s website for additional support and resources.
Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine User Reviews
Positive Reviews from Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine Users
- Some users were satisfied with the easy threading feature of the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine, finding it convenient and time-saving.
- Several users appreciated the wide selection of stitches available on the sewing machine, allowing them to be creative and versatile in their sewing projects.
- Users praised the sturdy and well-made foot of the sewing machine, which provided stability and smooth sewing experience.
- Many users found the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine to be user-friendly, particularly for beginners. It helped them quickly get started with sewing and complete their projects with ease.
- Users appreciated the included DVD and manual, which provided clear instructions and illustrations for setting up and operating the sewing machine.
- Some users expressed satisfaction with the performance of the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine, stating that it gave them confidence in its reliability and durability.
- Users praised the lightweight and quiet nature of the sewing machine, making it convenient to use without causing disturbances.
- Several users were pleased with the timely delivery of the sewing machine and the inclusion of all necessary accessories.
- Users mentioned that the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine was suitable for various sewing needs, including mending, and provided consistent results.
- Many users, including those who hadn’t sewn in a long time, found the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine easy to use and a great value for the price.
Based on the positive feedback from Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine customers, it can be concluded that the majority of users were satisfied with the sewing machine’s features, ease of use, performance, and value for money.
Negative User Reviews of the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine
- Some users reported issues with the pressure foot falling off while sewing, which caused inconvenience and disrupted the sewing process.
- Users expressed dissatisfaction with the bobbin getting jammed frequently, causing disruptions and frustration during sewing.
- A few users mentioned that the needles on the sewing machine broke easily, even when sewing lightweight fabrics, leading to inconvenience and additional expenses.
- Users experienced thread breakage when sewing multiple layers of thin fabric, which impacted the sewing process and required constant thread adjustments.
- One user reported that the sewing machine, despite being marketed as full-size, fell apart within a month of use due to its plastic construction.
- Some users felt that the sewing machine did not adequately push fabric through, requiring manual assistance during sewing.
- A user expressed disappointment with the stitch quality, citing frequent stitch jams and an inability to complete sewing projects smoothly.
- One user mentioned that the machine’s performance deteriorated quickly, with issues like needles breaking and stitch jams becoming persistent problems.
Based on the negative feedback from Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine customers, it can be noted that while some users encountered issues with the sewing machine’s functionality and durability, these experiences were not shared by the majority of users.
All user reviews mentioned in this section were taken from the site Walmart.com.
In general, the majority of users were satisfied with the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine, appreciating its user-friendly features, versatility, and performance. However, it’s important to note that individual experiences may vary, and it’s advisable to consider both positive and negative feedback when making a purchasing decision.
Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine Manual
The instruction manual for the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine can be found here. It is recommended to refer to the manual for detailed instructions on operating and troubleshooting the machine.
Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I thread the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine?
To thread the Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine, follow these steps:
- Raise the presser foot lever.
- Place the thread spool on the spool pin and secure it with the spool cap.
- Take the thread and pass it through the thread guide.
- Guide the thread through the tension control dial.
- Thread the thread through the take-up lever.
- Bring the thread down and pass it through the thread guide located above the needle.
- Thread the needle from front to back.
- Pull out a few inches of thread and you’re ready to sew.
Q: Why is the needle on my Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine breaking?
There are several possible reasons for a broken needle:
- Make sure you are using the correct needle size and type for the fabric you are sewing.
- Check that the needle is properly installed and tightened.
- Inspect the needle for any signs of damage or wear and replace it if necessary.
- Ensure that the fabric is properly positioned and not causing excessive tension on the needle.
Q: Why is the thread on my Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine constantly breaking?
If the thread keeps breaking, try the following:
- Check the tension settings and adjust them if needed.
- Re-thread the machine, making sure the thread is properly guided through all the thread guides and the tension control dial.
- Inspect the needle for any burrs or sharp edges that may be damaging the thread.
- Ensure that the bobbin is wound correctly and inserted properly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you experience any problems with your Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine, it is recommended to refer to the instruction manual provided by the manufacturer. Additionally, you can reach out to the customer service or visit a service center for assistance.
Always make sure to follow proper troubleshooting steps and seek professional help when needed. By doing so, you can ensure optimal performance and longevity of your Brother SM1704 Sewing Machine.
