Fantastic machine. I bought mine when they were first introduced and loved it. I lost it when my home was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Although I lost the machine, I was able to save all the presser feet because they were in a watertight box. Shortly after that, I met a woman in a Bernina Store whose home had also been destroyed. She said she had not lost her Bernina 830 because she had loaned it to her daughter out of state; however, all her presser feet were destroyed. A match made in heaven! I was thrilled to give all of my 830 presser feet to her.
Hi there. I have an old 830 Record. Broke a needle today, and now the bobbin is jammed. I dismantled the bobbin case, thinking it would be straightforward, removed the broken needle, but the machine is still jammed. I'm trying to find your video on the Bernina bobbin case. Can you please point me to it?
the back thread guide snapped off so thread from bobbin isnt held to feed through the first tension on top oa machine. Can i replace the metal thread guide?
I got this machine for Christmas 1975. Only recently it will just stop when I'm sewing. Had it repaired a few years ago for the same issue at the same place it was purchased. The man has since retired. I love this machine. Anyone have any idea what could be wrong?
Hi , I just bought a Bernina 830 record but I need to replace the pedal and cord to original . I’ve searched on eBay and cannot find one for sale . Any suggestions or sites I can search ? Thanks
I have a 40 yr old Bernina 830 Record Electronic. Was sitting idle for many years. Now, the Stitch Width Knob (upper knob) and the Buttonhole Knob (knob below) won't turn. Are stuck. Also Bobbin winding makes a "whirring" sound like metal on metal. Any ideas? Thank you!
Ho Allen thank you much for the video. Just bought the Bernina 830 from a lady and the straight stitch and needle position dail not going on zigzag and the needle is all over the place. The decorative stitch isn't working also and the lever to go Ll the way back isn't going all the way.back can these be fixed. Don't know anything about bernina just wanted one. Thanks for your help. Much blessings
I have had a Bernina 830 Record for many years. Bought it new in the 70s. I never knew the spool pins pulled up. I can't get these to move, and have always used a plastic tube that was included with the machine. Were some made that didn't have extendable spoon pins? I don't dare pull any harder than I already have! Thanks!!
Hi Alan, didn’t you do.vide on if the bobbin doesn’t spin? I declutch, the bobbin doesn’t sing [and yes it is locked into place] and in addition the needle is going up and down. Do I need to look at the clutch?
If my handwheel doesn't disengage properly, (it loosens but needle continues to move) in order for me to wind a bobbin, do you think this is something I could repair myself? Could it be an oiling issue, or something more in need of an expert eye? I really love this Bernina, it has always sewn the most even stitches and is a pleasure to use. I'd appreciate any advice, thanks a lot. 😊
Angela O'Connor hello Angela, thanks for the question. It could be old oil. Oil turns into an adhesive with age. All of the solvents the keep it liquid evaporate over time. If this is the case and it’s been a while since it’s been cleaned and lubed, the bearings in the rest of the machine are probably in the same condition! Just oiling the clutch would then cause unnecessary wear on the other bearings. I did a video on lubrication that could help you. If you loosen the stop screw in the clutch you can remove the retainer screw. NOTE: Put the washer back in exactly the way you find it! I would clean the shaft and center hole in the hand wheel with rubbing alcohol. Then put a couple drops of oil on the shaft and rub it around and reassemble. Remember to retighten the stop screw. NOTE: if your belt’s too tight tithe needle will continue to go up and down! Hope this helps! Allen
@@abberepair8288 Allen, many thanks for taking the time to give a very thorough and detailed explanation, the type I was hoping for 😊 So helpful, I will use all the info. Thank you again. Angela
Allen, I have done as you suggested and it has worked 😄 the mschine is winding thd bobbin wothput the foot shaft hopping. Hwever there is now a rattling sound which appears to be coming from the area which holds the bobbin. Almost like a ball bearing sound, if you can understand what I mean. It's functioning but noisy. By further thoughts? Thanks for getting me this far.
Hello Allen, Would you be able to make a video to help me keep my lovely old 830 well maintained please? I am just an ordinary sewer without a workshop or a toolbelt! I enjoy your enthusiasm. Best wishes from the UK.
Dragon Hi Dragon and thanks for your question. You are asking if I can put everything I know into a video or a series of videos and give it away. I can't afford the time or the money to do that. There are so many components in your machine that all have to run together and an infinite number of variables involved in doing a proper "tune up" that I don't think I could. Turning electricity into controlled motion "safely" takes basic knowledge most lack. The best I can share, and gladly, is that the right amount of oil and grease act like the "elixir of gods" for sewing machines. Every bearing and linkage pivot needs lubrication. The hook needs oil often because every stitch thread comes in contact with it and a minute amount of oil gets transferred to the thread and lint. I show this on the video. Thanks again. I hope this answers some of your questions. Allen
Thank you Allen. I wasn't really asking you to share your trade secrets and a lifetime's knowledge and skill on TH-cam, I just thought that it would be really helpful to be able to see someone of your calibre and enthusiasm carry out the routine maintenance which is specified in the 'Cleaning and oiling' section on pages 60 - 61 of My Bernina Guide handbook. Kind regards, and thank you for your videos.
hi,are you still doing dem on this machine.i have this machine love it,just had an issue with needle break replace the needlle did the normal re thread, now the trouble.the top thread is not picking up the bottom bobbin thread. what may be the problem may you suggest. tried a few things,cleaning,re threading. i await your suggestion
Thank you Allen, love the videos on Bernina 830. I use mine every day but it's got one annoying habit. The knob to change from sewing to earning moves over to darn. Then the sewing straight stitching stops.😊 I've checked and cleaned it. All appears to be well.
wow - thank you so much! I bought my 830 when the 930 came out so whatever year it was. I've moved and my poor machine has been in storage for years! I needed this info.
I have several feet for this model machine, one of them being a double needle foot. the machine only has one bobbin housing, is there use for the double needle foot on this machine or is it a mismatch? Thank you.
David hi David. Thanks for your question. If you look a the outside leg seam on a pair of jeans you will find a two parallel and synchronized rows of stitching. Look on the inside and you will also find two separate rows of stitching. Your machine only has one bobbin. When you use a twin need and two threads on top you still have only one thread on the bottom. This gives you two rows of stitching on top but a sawtooth pattern on the bottom where the bobbin thread (1) knots with both needle thread every stitch. This also requires increasing the upper tension to get a clean look on the bottom. I have not tested this stitch for strength. I don’t know if it’s more than decorative. I hope this answers your question. Allen
My 830 has been a work horse for me since I got her in 1982. Recently having issue with foot control. When I press it to start sewing it hesitates to start sewing. I turn hand wheel toward me to help it. Finally it will take off. When I took it in to my Bernina dealer, I learned my older normal repairman had passed away and new one doesn’t work on older machines, only on new electronic ones. Two other dealers in my state and several hours away.
Hey Allen, do you know if there is a way to reduce the pressure on the foot? I have trouble with the foot pushing the fabric forward as I sew. Cheers! Jean from Waiheke Island, New Zealand!!
Jean Goodbrand Hi Jean. Good question!!! Raise cover and look directly above the presser foot bar. There is a silver slotted screw about the size of a nickel screwed down into the shaft the houses the presser foot bar. It compresses a spring that transfers the energy to the presser foot. The further in you screw it the more pressure is put on you fabric. The screw and spring should be removed, cleaned, and reoiled periodically. Hope this helps. Allen
Hi there @ABBE repair, Thanks so much for being so generous with your advice. A quick question re my Mum’s Bernette 680 which I just inherited... My Bernina 830 is very heavy to handle now that I’m gettin older and I thought Id sell it and use the Bernette instead. I am generally happy with it but i find it hopeless with any more than two layers of fabric - it just doesn’t seem to want to feed. Is this likely to be a maintenence or mechanical issue that can be resolved? Do you know of a remedy to this. . Cheers!
Excellent thank you I’ve inherited my Nans Bernina record 830 and I’m attempting to repair my 1987 VL Calais interior I didn’t have a clue till I watched your video ..............Cheers mate 👍🇦🇺
Christine Cambridge I'm sorry I can't make a video one that! Those screws are a pain. I have some jeweler's size that I use. They make it possible but still not ease. Glad bulbs last so long! Good luck!
Hi - I'm so glad I ran into this video. I just today purchased the 830 record from Marketplace. It's working as far as I can tell and I'm waiting for some oil I just purchased to get here so I can lubricate it. If it seems to be working fine, should I still bring it in for service? I'm from the Twin Cities myself! Thank you!
Carlamari Drew hi carlamari drew! Great question! Yes is the answer to your question. Why? is the question I’d ask back. If you flip open the top of the machine and look straight down at the tube the presser foot bar fits in. There is a shiny screw scored with a slot for a straight flat screwdriver. This screw is the screw that you screw in or out to change the pressure. I always pull the spring out and clean and lube that assembly. Old oil can make the assembly very stiff. It must move freely. If you unscrew this NOTE it is spring loaded. Only remove that screw with the presser foot off and the presser foot lever down to relieve as much spring tension as possible. Count how many turns it took to remove the screw and start with it there when you put it back together. Assembly should be clean and well oiled. Hope this helps. Allen
@@abberepair8288 Thanks so much! It doesn't hold my fabric well. I mean it will hold, but if I am sewing something slippery forget it, I really have to hang on to the fabric otherwise it slides all over the place. I will keep you posted, thanks again!
Carlamari Drew hi carlamari drew. One other thing to check is if the feed dogs CAN come up through the needle plate slots to move. Lint builds up under the needle plate, between the rows of feed dog teeth. This gets compressed and given enough lint, it can prevent the feed dogs from being able to move up though the needle plate. Remove the needle plate and clean channels between the rows of teeth. Hope this helps. Allen
Oncycle hi oncycle, I do believe this would be considered the 830 new style. The old style is looks like the 700, 701, 730. I hope this answers your question
Linda Roblyer Ho Linda Roblyer. Thanks for your question. The only thing that comes to mind is, did they leave it in the button hole position instead of straight stitch or zig-zag... this can do exactly that. What kind of machine do you have? Hope this helps. Allen
I have the same problem as Kar Ser (posted 2 yrs ago). How do I clean the old oil from my 830? Hopefully as you mentioned in your response this will take care of the needle moving when I'm threading the bobbin. Great video - thanks.
R Jackson R Jackson. Thanks for the comment. Old oil and grease act as a glue! It gets very stiff! This old oil and grease needs to be dissolved and or scraped away. Linkages may have to be disassembled. When lubricants get this stiff it must be removed but very carefully and very gently! Damage to any part may be unrepairable! I have a video coming soon on lubrication. It shows old grease and oil and offers methods to help. Thanks again Happy Holidays Allen
Hi, I have just purchased used good conditioned Bernina Record 830 sewing machine. But motor to pully best is missing would you please guide me from where I can get company original belt? I am from India (Gujarat).
my Bernina 850 is not working as the feed dog is not raising up to move the fabric through. It just sews in place. I love this machine. My deceased husband gave it to me 43 years ago and I would like to pass this down to my daugher. A repair man in Seattle said it would cost $200 just to look at the machine plus the cost of fixing it. I am fairly mechanical but I can't find any videos on this. A V shape spring came out of the bottom of the machine if that helps anyone help me figure this out. Thanks so much! Everything else works fine, well oiled and maintained.
Ian Thomson hi Ian. I think it is the best machine Bernina's made. The problem most have is they are stiff from old hard oil and grease. Free them up, keep them lube, they'll last and perform!
ABBE Repair thanks Abbe ....but I will look at the new machines as well, Im in Australia. .. Bernina 380 looks good but i am unsure about the computer(not using just the lasting quality, w expensive repair) the reason I mention this and looking carefully, is that i have purchased a Juki f600 its good but I'm having to return because it is giving me electric shocks.... like a buzzy pin effect on my fingers..... no one seems to know what is causing this. Yours felicity 😊 💓 🐈
Ian Thomson I have a singer 99k. It just does a straight stitch. It's from 1950. I love it. Computers in sewing machines don't last longer then the ones on your desk. I'm plan on my great grandchildren using my 99k!
I just started using my bernina record 830 which I got from my Grandma. My dog feeds seem to be stuck in a down position and won't feed fabric, what can I do to fix this problem? I'm really new to this machine. thank you for your videos and any help.
Annigreenspring thanks for the question. On the front of the machine, in the lower right section, 2 inches below the stitch length regulator, is a round knob. Turning this knob to the left will raise the feed dogs. To the right will lower them again. The linkage gets very stiff and may not want to turn. If this is the case extreme care is required to free it up. Replacement parts are no longer available so don't force and possible damage anything. Thanks again.
Hello; My hand wheel clutch is stuck, I can't get it to loosen. I don't think I tightened it any more than normal, but guess I did. Any suggestions to get it un-stuck?
Hello. I have a Bernina 830. I’ve had it since about 1978. Recently the stitch tension is off. It almost has a slight gather on a straight stitch. I have cleaned the bobbin area and have oiled the top and bottom areas. Do you have any suggestions? I have a brand new needle and brand new thread. Thank you
I need a walking foot for my 1980’s 830. Do you have any idea where I could get one? Would prefer original Bernina part but I see a lot of knock offs. Can you help me?
Nancy Gould My walking foot is by Bernina. It works well. The only down side is it takes me couple of minutes to get it attached to machine. But worth the trouble and it does work well.
My Bernina is an 807, but looks very similar to the one above. I'm having a problem that you've not yet covered in your comments. (I did read them all.) My needle will not move to the right or left as it used to do. I've checked under the cover and the guide is fitting into the grooves, but at the other end (the needle) it is only moving slightly. I tried using the zipper foot which has no middle hole, and the needle should go on one side or the other of the foot, however it's been set, and the needle will hit the foot as it won't adjust to either side. Do you have any suggestions for me? Thanks.
Susan Davis hi susan davis! I can only guess... i would check to make sure you machine isn’t in a buttonhole setting. The next thing i would do is to see if the lever that switches from straight stitch and zig-zag to design stitches moves freely. It should click loud when you move it back and forth. Lots of oil and working should free this up. Old lube can cause nasty problems. These machines need regular lubes. Hope this helps. Allen
I have a question. I recently bought the Bernina 830. After I cleaned/oiled it. It runs perfectly. Why isn't there is gash where can cut the thread when you end a seam?
Gladys McCoy hi Gladys! Thanks for your note! I hope you like yours as much as I like mine! As for a thread cutter, I have a little scissors that I keep handy. Have a great day!
Hi All, the Bernina 830 has a thread cutter on top of the presser foot lever. You can lift both threads and cut them there. I usually use scissors but when in a hurry or can't find the scissors ;-) I use this cutter. Mine is from 1979 and has this facility.
What is the name of the 830 Record body part On the back side holding the thread spindles. Mine is cracked. Looking for replacement part but don’t know what to call it.
Thank you for a great video, Allen. I recently purchased a Bernina 830 that had been in storage. It sews fine but the belts are noisy. The hand wheel doesn't move smoothly. It makes a buzzy, crunchy sound. The belts are lug belts stamped with the Bernina name. They look to be in good shape and still flexible but I wonder if they are dried out.. Adjusting them didn't make any difference. Would my hand wheel move more quietly and smoothly if I replaced the lug belts with V belts?
Anita Miller hi Anita! Great question. It is possible that the belts are in poor shape but you seem to feel they're ok so I'll take your word on that. The main cause for the symptoms you are describing is lack of proper lubrication. The machine needs to move very freely, including the motor brushes! Then you can adjust the belts. They need to be as loose as they can be and still run the machine! Too tight steals all of your power!! I hope this helps Allen
Hi Allan, Thank you so much for your prompt reply. I did oil the machine with Tri-flow oil. I will check the manual to see if I missed any spots. I cleaned the motor commutator and replaced the brushes (even though they didn't need to be replaced.) I will try loosening the belts as you described. If nothing else works, I'll replace them with V belts. Thanks again for your help!
Great videos! My aunt just gave me this machine, I used to sew on it as a kid with my grandmother. However, the machine will run for a few seconds but then stops. I’ve opened the machine up and can’t seem to find anything that’d cause this. It seems to be a specific spot, even when turning the wheel by hand it always stops in the same place. I’ve been looking to take it in for maintenance but can’t seem to find a Bernina specialist near me!
Thank you for the video--I just purchased my Bernina 830 at an estate sale and it is in immaculate condition. However, when I changed from zig zag foot to zipper foot and changed the needle position, it would not sew at all. Thread does not interlock with bobbin thread. Am I doing something wrong? Thank you for any feedback.
Alice Hutchings Thanks for your query. To avoid skipping stitches with a standard 50-60 thread, I start with a size 90/14 needle. For heavy fabric like denim, canvas I use a sharp most other I use a ball point. With the zig-zag foot check straight to wide zig-zag, if your machine does great but doesn't when you change feet, your needle is probably hitting the foot. Wrong foot? New needle? Bent or damaged needle can also cause this. Flat of the needle should be away from you. Hope this helps
Video is great I have a Bernina 830 record machine and I have been wondering if it is worth my money to have it serviced or go for the Bernina1008S mechanical machine ? I do have a 550QE but I want a back up for other sewing projects.I just don't know what to do as my 830 record is in excellent condition.Have you any unbiased opinion you can offer me as you have worked with machines for so long. Are spare parts still available if I take it in for a service? I am in UK. Hope you can help. Many thanks
Valerie Abrahams sorry I missed your post! I'm also sorry I can't give an opinion on the value of machines I haven't inspected. There are just too many variables. Allen
Hi Allen, thanks for the videos they are very helpful. Some one gave me a Bernina 830 reporter but when i try to wind my bobbin the clutch only works for a second then it seems to engage and starts the needle going up and down. Any Ideas? Thanks again Roxanne
Roxanne Imhoff thanks for your question. There are two main reasons the needle goes up and down when the clutch is disengaged. Old oil and grease act as an adhesive instead of a lubricant and/or the belt's too tight. Thanks again. Great question!
Keith Jones hi Keith. The 830 used several different foot controls. If yours just goes fast with no incremental speed control it probably has a ceramic housing full oh dine size carbon discs. The more you press on the foot control the more these discs are pressed together reducing the resistance and allowing more amperage flow to the motor. If your controller has "bounced off the floor", some or all of these discs could be broken. The only time the circuit is closed is when you press the controller all the way to the " wide open" stop. Great question. You should find a repair tech. New foot controls for Berninas are very expensive!
Just found your posts tonight as I was searching for information about a Bernina 831 I just inherited. You seem very knowledgeable about these old machines. This one has a knee lift bar but there is no connecting apparatus in the knee lift opening, just a plastic "plug". Do you know where I could obtain the part to be able to use the knee lift? Also, the needle goes up and down when I disengage the clutch to wind a bobbin. There does not appear to be any old oil or grease and this machine was not really ever used. Will this damage the machine when I use the bobbin winder? It sews beautifully and I want to take good care of it. Thanks. Pat
Pat Fuller hi Pat. Thanks for your question. If the knee lift linkage for the presser foot is missing the only source I know to replace it is buy picking up a parts machine and using its parts to install it in yours. As to your clutch issues, the hand wheel should move independently when the clutch is loosened. The main two reasons it won’t is lack of proper lubricant between the hand wheel and the upper horizontal shaft and/or the belt is too tight. Hope this helps! Allen
I have one of these machines it was my grandmothers and she sewed many of my clothes as a child on it. Anyway I am having difficulty with the thread being over lose in the front area and the thread keeps breaking. I wish I could ask my Grandma what I'm doing wrong but that is no longer possible. I really enjoyed this post and at least I know I am threading it correctly!
+Glenda Hess Happy Holidays! I am glad you found my videos helpful! Please feel free to share them. Tension problems can be the result of many issues. The two most common are lack of oil, the hook should get a half drop of oil every 4 - 6 hours of sewing time and broken needles. Every time a needle breaks you damage whatever the needle hits. This needle damage needs to be machined or polished out. Thanks again for watching. I hope you find this response to be helpful. Allen
Hi Allen, thanks for the great video! I'm looking to freight my mothers old 830 (in its original carry case) from my old home town to another city. To reduce part-stress while shipping, are there any settings/positions that are best park the mechanics in? Machine probably hasn't run for 20 years, so looking forward to getting it serviced and re-learning how it works! Thank you! Matt.
MlR congrats, great old machine. Great question! I’d definitely transport it with the needle in the fabric and the thread take-up lever in it’s lowest position. For protection. Can’t easily get a take-up lever and needles can be bent. Many happy hours!
@@abberepair8288 Thanks Allen, great advice! I imagine some of the original parts for these machines are getting hard to find, so hoping it travels well!
Hi Allen, I was given an 80s model Bernina 830, 115vac, 60hz, 105w, I was able to plug it in, thread, and set the bobber, then it blew my Circuit reset, tried a couple times, but it keeps blowing. Any idea why? I'm on 110-125v. I am new to sewing.. learning from my manual& you tube!! 😁
Jodi P hi Jodi. Thanks for your question. The only reason a breaker would trip is there is too much amperage drawn through it!!! If your machine is running well I.e. lubed and moving freely, it should only use about 1 amp. If the oil and grease is old and stiff or thread is wrapped somewhere it could draw much more. Damaged wiring could be another very dangerous reason. YOU SHOULD SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP FOR THIS. Danger of fire and/or electric shock is very possible. It might not be what you want to hear but a pro should check it out. Allen
i have a bernina 830, i am having an issue with winding bobbin because the clutch does not disengage. I can wind a bobbin but the whole motor is running while its doing it, i am not new to sewing but i am new to my 830..can you share any advice ? My needle is moving while bobbin is winding, some have suggested to oil machine or clean dirt but motor looks like new inside and i don't think dirt is the problem here..its going to be more than just cleaning. Cheers.
Kar Ser Hi Kar. The main two reasons the almost all machines can have this problem is old oil and grease. Old oil and grease act as a glue. This old oil and grease must be removed and replaced with fresh to allow things to move freely. Sometimes people tighten the belt instead of lubricating when old oil and grease cause the machine to tighten up. Thanks again for your question. Love your machine!
CAN you tell me where i loosen, or what shaft or ? to adjust the timing? can tell the hook is slightly off, and misses sometimes when doing wide zig zags... thanks!
zipcrazed I've been fixing sewing machines for 20 years and still use gauges when I check and set timing. Have you tried putting in a new needle? It's the cheapest tune up you can do and is often the problem!
Hi Allen, Thanks for posting this video. I have the same machine as the one you are demonstrating with, and was wondering if you run the bobbin thread through the hole in the arm on the bobbin case? If not, what's that sucker there for? Thanks.
motobuilt73 hi motobuilt73. What a great question! I don't know why Bernina put that hole there! Some machines seem to do some stitches better when you use it. I'm surmising here but the engineer may have been thinking that routing the thread that way could make it feed smoother... I find it does change the lower tension if you use it or not. Thanks again. Allen
luddite question: i was given an 830 bernina and was told it was a serger. i am clueless whether it IS or not and would have no idea how to identify one (a serger, compared to a regular bernina). i'll peruse manuals and things on line, and may find out soon. but i'd love to have some guidance on this. thanks in advance :)
nosowisewoman hi nosowisewoman thanks for the question. A sewing machine has one or two upper threads but most people usually use one and pair it with a bobbin and bobbin case to make a stitch. Sergers don't have a bobbin. They have typically three or four threads that peel off thread cones perched on spool pins behind the machine. Sergers also typically have a set of knives to shear the fabric to a custom width to set the seam width. An 830 Bernina is a sewing machine not a serger
Pat Lawson Hi Pat! Thanks for the excellent question! There are both 15 watt and 25 watt bulbs sold in that same size and shape! Use only 15 watts or less. Any higher wattage will get too hot! 15 watts, even though it is what is designed in still gets hot! There are “ led” bulbs of the same shape that run much much cooler. I hope this answers your question. Allen
Thank you for posting this very informative video. i own a Bernina record 830 and LOVE IT! Bizarrely I was placing a bobbin in the bobbin case and it got stuck? I could not get it out and decided to to unscrew the screw on the case to loosen it up but alas the tension is screwed up, ugh! I managed to find vintage case on eBay and hope its not damaged!!?? So my question is can the bobbin case be repaired? Thanks again for your consideration.
Hi Allen, I have an old Bernina 830 as in this video. At times I would like to use upholstery thread or button whole thread. But when I do the tension isn't correct and the stitches don't look nice. Can you tell me what I need to do to make the stitches lay nice. Of course I use a larger needle but don't know what else to do.
Nancy Eubank hi Nancy. You bring up a couple of good points, GREAT POINTS! One point is thread weight or diameter affecting tension. Yes! You can change the upper tension setting to make up for larger or smaller diameter thread and change the setting of that screw on the bobbin case we've all been told never to touch... Nothing about an 830 is beefy enough to do a " heavy thread job". In my mind it is an excellent machine for 50-60 weight thread with a 12 - 14 needle. It isn't an industrial machine and forcing it because you can will probably damage it, maybe beyond repair.
Nancy Eubank hi Nancy. This is my second attempt to answer this. My iPad ate my first try! You asked several GREAT questions. First, I love my 830 and and find it does a fabulous job with 50 - 60 weight thread and size 12 - 14. Size 14 in sharps or ballpoints are my standby. Size 09 - 11 are too small for "standard" thread to move freely through the hole in the needle. They need a smaller thread. About 4" of thread move down through then back up through the hole in the needle every stitch. Match needle size to thread diameter. Now, the 830 is not an industrial machine. If you put in a large needle and use heavy thread and crank up the tensions to sew heavy material, you still won't get a great stitch because things like the take-up spring are sized for a lighter duty use. Things like needle bars could bend. Sorry but I don't recommend an 830 be used "heavy applications"
Hello sir I have Bernina using for almost 45 years suddenly the pedal couldn’t get a currents so when I turn it on only the machine itself running , please reply
Julie Aduca hi Julie thanks for the comment. I'm not sure if you mean the machine keeps running by itself or if you have to turn the handwheel to get the motor to start. Either of these situations should be checked out by a train tech. Oops with electricity is dangerous!
Hi, I just got a Bernina 830 record from my mother-in-law. I was wondering how to change the stitches on it. I read the manual, but it doesn't really explain the basics in there. Could you please make a video for that? Thank you!
fabianam4 thanks for the question. I will try to include that in any future videos. Meanwhile, there I a lever on the top of your machine just to the right of the stitch selector. The lever should be forward or toward you when using a zigzag or straight stitch and back or away from you when using all other stitches. You should hear a clunk when "shifting" this lever. If there is no "clunk" the oil is probably so stiff the linkage can't move. This is a common problem with these machines. It's not the machine it the old oil. Oil and grease go from being a lubricant to becoming an adhesive over time. I would bring it to a pro. Freed up this machine should be a jem! I hope this helps. Allen
Thank you my friend!!! I bought my mom an old Singer... A.. something, I cant remember now... it's all metal. She only oils it... the thing won't quit and it's from the late 50's or early 60's. stitch is perfect. Why don't they make them this way anymore? I think its that A- style slant. That thing sews more perfect I think than my Bernina 830, which was made in 1980.
I think too many great old all metal machines are discarded and replaced with "stylish", "eye catching" pieces of plastic. Nowhere near as rugged! Plastic breaks all by itself! Doesn't need much help just a few years can do it... Allen
My grandma gave me her Bernina 830 when she stopped sewing, I went to use it for the first time and the pressor foot will not lower. What would be the cause of this? Thanks in advance
Nate Christopherson hi most probably it is old oil/grease. Something bent is improbable. Try some fine oil on the vertical shaft, both upper and lower bearings. The rest of the entire machine probably needs the old oil and grease removed and all bearings and linkages freed up! 3 - 4 hrs of knowledgeable labor?
Doc Sledge Hi Doc! Tinkering can be fun! I am not familiar with your specific motor. I like to stay with factory replacement parts or proven replacements. I don't have the time to make all the modifications necessary to machines and brackets, belts, and power supplies!... I'm not sure what my insurance company would think... I like the factory motor. The brushes are a little small but are easy enough to replace. Ease to polish armature... I like the 830. If you are doing it to make it more rugged, industrial like, it has no oiling system and two plastic gears. Great domestic machine as it sits. Not rugged enough to take the hard use I associate with industrial.
My Mom just got one from a neighbor (purchased in 1982). She plugged it in and the light comes on but when she pushes on the pedal nothing happens no noise or anything. Any thoughts on how to troubleshoot?
Snigdha Das Hi Snigdha Das. Wiring, motor brushes, and the electronic speed control in the foot control. I have one in my que now and I believe it is the speed control. Hope this helps. Allen
Snigdha Das hi Snigdha Das. I have had 25 years to learn some of the answers to that question. I have a degree in Robotics. The way i found to increase my speed of diagnosis is to have those components in stock. I have foot controls, cords, etc I can plug into the machines to quickly help isolate the problem. I can’t do that over the internet. There isn’t an easy at-home answer. It’s time to see someone who knows how to troubleshoot that machine. I hope this helps. Allen
My bernina 830 zigzag adjustment dial keeps sliping back from 4. I move it to 4 and it simply rolls back to 1. I need to hold the dial to 4 to be able to zig zag or do embroidery, which is not easy. What should I do to fix it? I live in Pakistan and the person who repaired it the first time pulled out a few important washers and a capacitor. The people over here cannot be trusted with anything. That's why I want to try and fix it myself.
Hola, soy de Chile. Tengo una bernina record 830 ; modelo extremadamente excaso aqui en mi pais. Al coser siento que debo pisar muy al tope el pedal, la aguja se levanta lentamente y comienza a coser, pero debo ser muy cuidadosa o cose muy rápido. ¿Cuál podrá ser el motivo?
stvynix I will only use Bernina bobbins specifically made for these machines! I have over 40 types of bobbins in stock. All of them are for specific machines
Big Smile TH-cam hi. If you lift the stitch length regulator it goes in reverse. Let it drop and it will go right back to the same length stitch. Allen
Cross wound thread should always come off the top. Horizontally wound thread should come off the side.... just the way it is put on. See this video as to why: th-cam.com/video/PnO5K6AA2sY/w-d-xo.html
I feel that the title of this video is misleading. It's not a sewing machine repair. It's a "how to setup your sewing machine". That's not repairing anything. I already knew how to do all this. But I will admit anyone who hasn't used a Bernina 830 before would find this useful.
Fantastic machine. I bought mine when they were first introduced and loved it. I lost it when my home was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Although I lost the machine, I was able to save all the presser feet because they were in a watertight box. Shortly after that, I met a woman in a Bernina Store whose home had also been destroyed. She said she had not lost her Bernina 830 because she had loaned it to her daughter out of state; however, all her presser feet were destroyed. A match made in heaven! I was thrilled to give all of my 830 presser feet to her.
karodora hi karodora! Great story! Mine’s for sale. Like new condition!
What a lovely story. Thanks for sharing. ☺️
@@allennelson8834
Did you sell it ?
Hi there. I have an old 830 Record. Broke a needle today, and now the bobbin is jammed. I dismantled the bobbin case, thinking it would be straightforward, removed the broken needle, but the machine is still jammed. I'm trying to find your video on the Bernina bobbin case. Can you please point me to it?
the back thread guide snapped off so thread from bobbin isnt held to feed through the first tension on top oa machine. Can i replace the metal thread guide?
I got this machine for Christmas 1975. Only recently it will just stop when I'm sewing. Had it repaired a few years ago for the same issue at the same place it was purchased. The man has since retired. I love this machine. Anyone have any idea what could be wrong?
Hi , I just bought a Bernina 830 record but I need to replace the pedal and cord to original . I’ve searched on eBay and cannot find one for sale . Any suggestions or sites I can search ? Thanks
I have a 40 yr old Bernina 830 Record Electronic. Was sitting idle for many years. Now, the Stitch Width Knob (upper knob) and the Buttonhole Knob (knob below) won't turn. Are stuck. Also Bobbin winding makes a "whirring" sound like metal on metal. Any ideas? Thank you!
I have a Bernina 830 record bought in 1977. It simply will not start since I haven't used in for a time maybe. What to do ?
Lubricate per these instructions: th-cam.com/video/N_OH2wwOCIU/w-d-xo.html
I need the bobbin refill on the bernina 830 on the screen to show the icons
Ho Allen thank you much for the video. Just bought the Bernina 830 from a lady and the straight stitch and needle position dail not going on zigzag and the needle is all over the place. The decorative stitch isn't working also and the lever to go Ll the way back isn't going all the way.back can these be fixed. Don't know anything about bernina just wanted one. Thanks for your help. Much blessings
I have had a Bernina 830 Record for many years. Bought it new in the 70s. I never knew the spool pins pulled up. I can't get these to move, and have always used a plastic tube that was included with the machine. Were some made that didn't have extendable spoon pins? I don't dare pull any harder than I already have! Thanks!!
Mine won't move either.
Hi Alan, didn’t you do.vide on if the bobbin doesn’t spin? I declutch, the bobbin doesn’t sing [and yes it is locked into place] and in addition the needle is going up and down. Do I need to look at the clutch?
If my handwheel doesn't disengage properly, (it loosens but needle continues to move) in order for me to wind a bobbin, do you think this is something I could repair myself? Could it be an oiling issue, or something more in need of an expert eye?
I really love this Bernina, it has always sewn the most even stitches and is a pleasure to use.
I'd appreciate any advice, thanks a lot. 😊
Angela O'Connor hello Angela, thanks for the question. It could be old oil. Oil turns into an adhesive with age. All of the solvents the keep it liquid evaporate over time. If this is the case and it’s been a while since it’s been cleaned and lubed, the bearings in the rest of the machine are probably in the same condition! Just oiling the clutch would then cause unnecessary wear on the other bearings. I did a video on lubrication that could help you. If you loosen the stop screw in the clutch you can remove the retainer screw. NOTE: Put the washer back in exactly the way you find it! I would clean the shaft and center hole in the hand wheel with rubbing alcohol. Then put a couple drops of oil on the shaft and rub it around and reassemble. Remember to retighten the stop screw. NOTE: if your belt’s too tight tithe needle will continue to go up and down! Hope this helps! Allen
@@abberepair8288 Allen, many thanks for taking the time to give a very thorough and detailed explanation, the type I was hoping for 😊
So helpful, I will use all the info.
Thank you again. Angela
Allen, I have done as you suggested and it has worked 😄 the mschine is winding thd bobbin wothput the foot shaft hopping. Hwever there is now a rattling sound which appears to be coming from the area which holds the bobbin. Almost like a ball bearing sound, if you can understand what I mean.
It's functioning but noisy. By further thoughts? Thanks for getting me this far.
Sorry I meant 'any further thoughts'
Hello Allen,
Would you be able to make a video to help me keep my lovely old 830 well maintained please? I am just an ordinary sewer without a workshop or a toolbelt!
I enjoy your enthusiasm.
Best wishes from the UK.
Dragon Hi Dragon and thanks for your question. You are asking if I can put everything I know into a video or a series of videos and give it away. I can't afford the time or the money to do that. There are so many components in your machine that all have to run together and an infinite number of variables involved in doing a proper "tune up" that I don't think I could. Turning electricity into controlled motion "safely" takes basic knowledge most lack. The best I can share, and gladly, is that the right amount of oil and grease act like the "elixir of gods" for sewing machines. Every bearing and linkage pivot needs lubrication. The hook needs oil often because every stitch thread comes in contact with it and a minute amount of oil gets transferred to the thread and lint. I show this on the video. Thanks again. I hope this answers some of your questions. Allen
Thank you Allen. I wasn't really asking you to share your trade secrets and a lifetime's knowledge and skill on TH-cam, I just thought that it would be really helpful to be able to see someone of your calibre and enthusiasm carry out the routine maintenance which is specified in the 'Cleaning and oiling' section on pages 60 - 61 of My Bernina Guide handbook.
Kind regards, and thank you for your videos.
hi,are you still doing dem on this machine.i have this machine love it,just had an issue with needle break replace the needlle did the normal re thread, now the trouble.the top thread is not picking up the bottom bobbin thread.
what may be the problem may you suggest. tried a few things,cleaning,re threading. i await your suggestion
Thank you Allen, love the videos on Bernina 830. I use mine every day but it's got one annoying habit. The knob to change from sewing to earning moves over to darn. Then the sewing straight stitching stops.😊 I've checked and cleaned it. All appears to be well.
So glad you did this video. I have an Elna and it is totally different. Helping a friend with her old Bernina! Thanks!
wow - thank you so much! I bought my 830 when the 930 came out so whatever year it was. I've moved and my poor machine has been in storage for years! I needed this info.
Alison crazy cat lady I'm happy to have helped. I think the 830 is best machine Bernina ever made. Love mine!
I’m looking for Genuine Bernina Walking Foot - Old Style which comes in the Bernina hard case.
I have several feet for this model machine, one of them being a double needle foot. the machine only has one bobbin housing, is there use for the double needle foot on this machine or is it a mismatch? Thank you.
David hi David. Thanks for your question. If you look a the outside leg seam on a pair of jeans you will find a two parallel and synchronized rows of stitching. Look on the inside and you will also find two separate rows of stitching. Your machine only has one bobbin. When you use a twin need and two threads on top you still have only one thread on the bottom. This gives you two rows of stitching on top but a sawtooth pattern on the bottom where the bobbin thread (1) knots with both needle thread every stitch. This also requires increasing the upper tension to get a clean look on the bottom. I have not tested this stitch for strength. I don’t know if it’s more than decorative. I hope this answers your question. Allen
@@abberepair8288 thank you for your insight :)
My 830 won’t do the fancy pattern stitches and I’ve followed the instructions properly. Any help would be appreciated.
My 830 has been a work horse for me since I got her in 1982. Recently having issue with foot control. When I press it to start sewing it hesitates to start sewing. I turn hand wheel toward me to help it. Finally it will take off. When I took it in to my Bernina dealer, I learned my older normal repairman had passed away and new one doesn’t work on older machines, only on new electronic ones. Two other dealers in my state and several hours away.
I got her repaired! Bernina shop in Stuttgart. It was the electronic board in my foot pedal. They still make this part. So, I was lucky.
Have same problem
Hey Allen, do you know if there is a way to reduce the pressure on the foot? I have trouble with the foot pushing the fabric forward as I sew. Cheers! Jean from Waiheke Island, New Zealand!!
Jean Goodbrand Hi Jean. Good question!!! Raise cover and look directly above the presser foot bar. There is a silver slotted screw about the size of a nickel screwed down into the shaft the houses the presser foot bar. It compresses a spring that transfers the energy to the presser foot. The further in you screw it the more pressure is put on you fabric. The screw and spring should be removed, cleaned, and reoiled periodically. Hope this helps. Allen
@@abberepair8288 Thank you so much for your lovely response, much appreciated! I have wondered about this for years.
@@abberepair8288 Thank you so much for your lovely response, much appreciated! I have wondered about this for years.
Hi there @ABBE repair, Thanks so much for being so generous with your advice.
A quick question re my Mum’s Bernette 680 which I just inherited...
My Bernina 830 is very heavy to handle now that I’m gettin older and I thought Id sell it and use the Bernette instead.
I am generally happy with it but i find it hopeless with any more than two layers of fabric - it just doesn’t seem to want to feed. Is this likely to be a maintenence or mechanical issue that can be resolved?
Do you know of a remedy to this. .
Cheers!
Excellent thank you
I’ve inherited my Nans Bernina record 830 and I’m attempting to repair my 1987 VL Calais interior
I didn’t have a clue till I watched your video ..............Cheers mate 👍🇦🇺
ianharrd thanks mate!
Hello Alan, I have a Bernina 830. Can you show how to replace a bulb. I cannot remove a couple of screw near the light hinge!
Christine Cambridge I'm sorry I can't make a video one that! Those screws are a pain. I have some jeweler's size that I use. They make it possible but still not ease. Glad bulbs last so long! Good luck!
Hi - I'm so glad I ran into this video. I just today purchased the 830 record from Marketplace. It's working as far as I can tell and I'm waiting for some oil I just purchased to get here so I can lubricate it. If it seems to be working fine, should I still bring it in for service? I'm from the Twin Cities myself! Thank you!
Is there anyway to adjust the presser foot? Thank you
Carlamari Drew hi carlamari drew! Great question! Yes is the answer to your question. Why? is the question I’d ask back. If you flip open the top of the machine and look straight down at the tube the presser foot bar fits in. There is a shiny screw scored with a slot for a straight flat screwdriver. This screw is the screw that you screw in or out to change the pressure. I always pull the spring out and clean and lube that assembly. Old oil can make the assembly very stiff. It must move freely. If you unscrew this NOTE it is spring loaded. Only remove that screw with the presser foot off and the presser foot lever down to relieve as much spring tension as possible. Count how many turns it took to remove the screw and start with it there when you put it back together. Assembly should be clean and well oiled. Hope this helps. Allen
@@abberepair8288 Thanks so much! It doesn't hold my fabric well. I mean it will hold, but if I am sewing something slippery forget it, I really have to hang on to the fabric otherwise it slides all over the place. I will keep you posted, thanks again!
Carlamari Drew hi carlamari drew. One other thing to check is if the feed dogs CAN come up through the needle plate slots to move. Lint builds up under the needle plate, between the rows of feed dog teeth. This gets compressed and given enough lint, it can prevent the feed dogs from being able to move up though the needle plate. Remove the needle plate and clean channels between the rows of teeth. Hope this helps. Allen
@@abberepair8288 that's great! Thank you I will let you know how it goes 😊
Are you demonstrating Bernini 830 Record old style or new style? You don’t say
Oncycle hi oncycle, I do believe this would be considered the 830 new style. The old style is looks like the 700, 701, 730. I hope this answers your question
I just got my machine back from the repair shop. I now cannot adjust the length of stitch with the control. Do you have any suggestions? Thank you .
Linda Roblyer Ho Linda Roblyer. Thanks for your question. The only thing that comes to mind is, did they leave it in the button hole position instead of straight stitch or zig-zag... this can do exactly that. What kind of machine do you have? Hope this helps. Allen
ABBE Repair bernina 830
Linda Roblyer Hi Linda Roblyer. Does the regulator bar move up and down? Is the marker on the button hole knob pointing straight up? Allen
Bonjour , auriez-vous la gentillesse de m’indiquer comment changer la courroie de ma machine à coudre Bernina 830 merci beaucoup !
I have the same problem as Kar Ser (posted 2 yrs ago). How do I clean the old oil from my 830? Hopefully as you mentioned in your response this will take care of the needle moving when I'm threading the bobbin. Great video - thanks.
R Jackson R Jackson. Thanks for the comment. Old oil and grease act as a glue! It gets very stiff! This old oil and grease needs to be dissolved and or scraped away. Linkages may have to be disassembled. When lubricants get this stiff it must be removed but very carefully and very gently! Damage to any part may be unrepairable! I have a video coming soon on lubrication. It shows old grease and oil and offers methods to help.
Thanks again Happy Holidays Allen
How can remove old hard oil from swing machine?👍
Hi, I have just purchased used good conditioned Bernina Record 830 sewing machine. But motor to pully best is missing would you please guide me from where I can get company original belt? I am from India (Gujarat).
my Bernina 850 is not working as the feed dog is not raising up to move the fabric through. It just sews in place. I love this machine. My deceased husband gave it to me 43 years ago and I would like to pass this down to my daugher. A repair man in Seattle said it would cost $200 just to look at the machine plus the cost of fixing it. I am fairly mechanical but I can't find any videos on this. A V shape spring came out of the bottom of the machine if that helps anyone help me figure this out. Thanks so much! Everything else works fine, well oiled and maintained.
I have a Bernini minimatic and I have a bobbin thread jam and it will not budge, please can you help me! :) 🙏🏼
Trying desperately to find parts for this machine...any ideas?
Hi Abbe, Thankyou for showing the 830 working. Thinking of buying a vintage one similar to the one shown. yours felicity in Sydney Australia
Ian Thomson hi Ian. I think it is the best machine Bernina's made. The problem most have is they are stiff from old hard oil and grease. Free them up, keep them lube, they'll last and perform!
ABBE Repair thanks Abbe ....but I will look at the new machines as well, Im in Australia. .. Bernina 380 looks good but i am unsure about the computer(not using just the lasting quality, w expensive repair)
the reason I mention this and looking carefully, is that i have purchased a Juki f600 its good but I'm having to return because it is giving me electric shocks.... like a buzzy pin effect on my fingers..... no one seems to know what is causing this.
Yours felicity 😊 💓 🐈
Ian Thomson I have a singer 99k. It just does a straight stitch. It's from 1950. I love it. Computers in sewing machines don't last longer then the ones on your desk. I'm plan on my great grandchildren using my 99k!
Hee hee yes i agree!
My presser foot will not go up or down? Can you assist
I just started using my bernina record 830 which I got from my Grandma. My dog feeds seem to be stuck in a down position and won't feed fabric, what can I do to fix this problem? I'm really new to this machine. thank you for your videos and any help.
Annigreenspring thanks for the question. On the front of the machine, in the lower right section, 2 inches below the stitch length regulator, is a round knob. Turning this knob to the left will raise the feed dogs. To the right will lower them again. The linkage gets very stiff and may not want to turn. If this is the case extreme care is required to free it up. Replacement parts are no longer available so don't force and possible damage anything. Thanks again.
My 40 plus year old Bernina 830 needs a new speed regulator. Is there any way I can acquire one with out having to "hock" my grandchildren?
Hello; My hand wheel clutch is stuck, I can't get it to loosen. I don't think I tightened it any more than normal, but guess I did. Any suggestions to get it un-stuck?
Hello. I have a Bernina 830. I’ve had it since about 1978. Recently the stitch tension is off. It almost has a slight gather on a straight stitch. I have cleaned the bobbin area and have oiled the top and bottom areas. Do you have any suggestions? I have a brand new needle and brand new thread. Thank you
I need a walking foot for my 1980’s 830. Do you have any idea where I could get one? Would prefer original Bernina part but I see a lot of knock offs. Can you help me?
Nancy Gould I have an 830 from 1982 when I bought her. I bought my walking foot from Bernina store in Conway Arkansas.
Debbie Widner is the walking foot from Bernina or a knock off? Does it work well?
Nancy Gould My walking foot is by Bernina. It works well. The only down side is it takes me couple of minutes to get it attached to machine. But worth the trouble and it does work well.
@@debbiewidner5676 Great to hear. A Bernina walking foot that is available. Was it terribly expensive?
Nancy Gould I have receipt I can look it up and let you know.
How do I lower my feed dogs for this ol 830
My Bernina is an 807, but looks very similar to the one above. I'm having a problem that you've not yet covered in your comments. (I did read them all.) My needle will not move to the right or left as it used to do. I've checked under the cover and the guide is fitting into the grooves, but at the other end (the needle) it is only moving slightly. I tried using the zipper foot which has no middle hole, and the needle should go on one side or the other of the foot, however it's been set, and the needle will hit the foot as it won't adjust to either side. Do you have any suggestions for me? Thanks.
Susan Davis hi susan davis! I can only guess... i would check to make sure you machine isn’t in a buttonhole setting. The next thing i would do is to see if the lever that switches from straight stitch and zig-zag to design stitches moves freely. It should click loud when you move it back and forth. Lots of oil and working should free this up. Old lube can cause nasty problems. These machines need regular lubes. Hope this helps. Allen
I have a question. I recently bought the Bernina 830. After I cleaned/oiled it. It runs perfectly. Why isn't there is gash where can cut the thread when you end a seam?
Gladys McCoy hi Gladys! Thanks for your note! I hope you like yours as much as I like mine! As for a thread cutter, I have a little scissors that I keep handy. Have a great day!
Hi All, the Bernina 830 has a thread cutter on top of the presser foot lever. You can lift both threads and cut them there. I usually use scissors but when in a hurry or can't find the scissors ;-) I use this cutter.
Mine is from 1979 and has this facility.
JandaliaTheFirst hi JandaliaTheFirst! Thanks for sharing! Allen
This is the first time I've seen anyone mention the thread cutter on the presser foot lever!
What is the name of the 830 Record body part On the back side holding the thread spindles. Mine is cracked. Looking for replacement part but don’t know what to call it.
Do you happen to have a Genuine Bernina Walking Foot - Old Style for an 830? Will it work in a 930 and an 1140 as well ?
Thank you for a great video, Allen. I recently purchased a Bernina 830 that had been in storage. It sews fine but the belts are noisy. The hand wheel doesn't move smoothly. It makes a buzzy, crunchy sound. The belts are lug belts stamped with the Bernina name. They look to be in good shape and still flexible but I wonder if they are dried out.. Adjusting them didn't make any difference. Would my hand wheel move more quietly and smoothly if I replaced the lug belts with V belts?
Anita Miller hi Anita! Great question. It is possible that the belts are in poor shape but you seem to feel they're ok so I'll take your word on that. The main cause for the symptoms you are describing is lack of proper lubrication. The machine needs to move very freely, including the motor brushes! Then you can adjust the belts. They need to be as loose as they can be and still run the machine! Too tight steals all of your power!! I hope this helps
Allen
Hi Allan, Thank you so much for your prompt reply. I did oil the machine with Tri-flow oil. I will check the manual to see if I missed any spots. I cleaned the motor commutator and replaced the brushes (even though they didn't need to be replaced.) I will try loosening the belts as you described. If nothing else works, I'll replace them with V belts. Thanks again for your help!
Great videos! My aunt just gave me this machine, I used to sew on it as a kid with my grandmother. However, the machine will run for a few seconds but then stops. I’ve opened the machine up and can’t seem to find anything that’d cause this. It seems to be a specific spot, even when turning the wheel by hand it always stops in the same place. I’ve been looking to take it in for maintenance but can’t seem to find a Bernina specialist near me!
I have exactly that problem, I paid 3 times to fix it,! but then in a months is doing again!!!
How do you take the front off to make an adjustment?
Thank you for the video--I just purchased my Bernina 830 at an estate sale and it is in immaculate condition. However, when I changed from zig zag foot to zipper foot and changed the needle position, it would not sew at all. Thread does not interlock with bobbin thread. Am I doing something wrong? Thank you for any feedback.
Alice Hutchings Thanks for your query. To avoid skipping stitches with a standard 50-60 thread, I start with a size 90/14 needle. For heavy fabric like denim, canvas I use a sharp most other I use a ball point. With the zig-zag foot check straight to wide zig-zag, if your machine does great but doesn't when you change feet, your needle is probably hitting the foot. Wrong foot? New needle? Bent or damaged needle can also cause this. Flat of the needle should be away from you. Hope this helps
Video is great I have a Bernina 830 record machine and I have been wondering if it is worth my money to have it serviced or go for the Bernina1008S mechanical machine ? I do have a 550QE but I want a back up for other sewing projects.I just don't know what to do as my 830 record is in excellent condition.Have you any unbiased opinion you can offer me as you have worked with machines for so long. Are spare parts still available if I take it in for a service? I am in UK. Hope you can help. Many thanks
Valerie Abrahams sorry I missed your post! I'm also sorry I can't give an opinion on the value of machines I haven't inspected. There are just too many variables. Allen
Hi Allen, thanks for the videos they are very helpful. Some one gave me a Bernina 830 reporter but when i try to wind my bobbin the clutch only works for a second then it seems to engage and starts the needle going up and down. Any Ideas? Thanks again Roxanne
Roxanne Imhoff thanks for your question. There are two main reasons the needle goes up and down when the clutch is disengaged. Old oil and grease act as an adhesive instead of a lubricant and/or the belt's too tight. Thanks again. Great question!
Does the Bernina 830 have a place to adjust the electronic foot regulator. Mine goes too fast
Keith Jones hi Keith. The 830 used several different foot controls. If yours just goes fast with no incremental speed control it probably has a ceramic housing full oh dine size carbon discs. The more you press on the foot control the more these discs are pressed together reducing the resistance and allowing more amperage flow to the motor. If your controller has "bounced off the floor", some or all of these discs could be broken. The only time the circuit is closed is when you press the controller all the way to the " wide open" stop. Great question. You should find a repair tech. New foot controls for Berninas are very expensive!
Just found your posts tonight as I was searching for information about a Bernina 831 I just inherited. You seem very knowledgeable about these old machines. This one has a knee lift bar but there is no connecting apparatus in the knee lift opening, just a plastic "plug". Do you know where I could obtain the part to be able to use the knee lift? Also, the needle goes up and down when I disengage the clutch to wind a bobbin. There does not appear to be any old oil or grease and this machine was not really ever used. Will this damage the machine when I use the bobbin winder? It sews beautifully and I want to take good care of it.
Thanks. Pat
Pat Fuller hi Pat. Thanks for your question. If the knee lift linkage for the presser foot is missing the only source I know to replace it is buy picking up a parts machine and using its parts to install it in yours. As to your clutch issues, the hand wheel should move independently when the clutch is loosened. The main two reasons it won’t is lack of proper lubricant between the hand wheel and the upper horizontal shaft and/or the belt is too tight. Hope this helps! Allen
I have one of these machines it was my grandmothers and she sewed many of my clothes as a child on it. Anyway I am having difficulty with the thread being over lose in the front area and the thread keeps breaking. I wish I could ask my Grandma what I'm doing wrong but that is no longer possible. I really enjoyed this post and at least I know I am threading it correctly!
+Glenda Hess
Happy Holidays! I am glad you found my videos helpful! Please feel free to share them. Tension problems can be the result of many issues. The two most common are lack of oil, the hook should get a half drop of oil every 4 - 6 hours of sewing time and broken needles. Every time a needle breaks you damage whatever the needle hits. This needle damage needs to be machined or polished out. Thanks again for watching. I hope you find this response to be helpful.
Allen
Hi Allen, thanks for the great video! I'm looking to freight my mothers old 830 (in its original carry case) from my old home town to another city. To reduce part-stress while shipping, are there any settings/positions that are best park the mechanics in? Machine probably hasn't run for 20 years, so looking forward to getting it serviced and re-learning how it works! Thank you! Matt.
MlR congrats, great old machine. Great question! I’d definitely transport it with the needle in the fabric and the thread take-up lever in it’s lowest position. For protection. Can’t easily get a take-up lever and needles can be bent. Many happy hours!
@@abberepair8288 Thanks Allen, great advice! I imagine some of the original parts for these machines are getting hard to find, so hoping it travels well!
Hi Allen, I was given an 80s model Bernina 830, 115vac, 60hz, 105w, I was able to plug it in, thread, and set the bobber, then it blew my Circuit reset, tried a couple times, but it keeps blowing. Any idea why? I'm on 110-125v. I am new to sewing.. learning from my manual& you tube!! 😁
Jodi P hi Jodi. Thanks for your question. The only reason a breaker would trip is there is too much amperage drawn through it!!! If your machine is running well I.e. lubed and moving freely, it should only use about 1 amp. If the oil and grease is old and stiff or thread is wrapped somewhere it could draw much more. Damaged wiring could be another very dangerous reason. YOU SHOULD SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP FOR THIS. Danger of fire and/or electric shock is very possible. It might not be what you want to hear but a pro should check it out. Allen
i have a bernina 830, i am having an issue with winding bobbin because the clutch does not disengage. I can wind a bobbin but the whole motor is running while its doing it, i am not new to sewing but i am new to my 830..can you share any advice ? My needle is moving while bobbin is winding, some have suggested to oil machine or clean dirt but motor looks like new inside and i don't think dirt is the problem here..its going to be more than just cleaning. Cheers.
Kar Ser Hi Kar. The main two reasons the almost all machines can have this problem is old oil and grease. Old oil and grease act as a glue. This old oil and grease must be removed and replaced with fresh to allow things to move freely. Sometimes people tighten the belt instead of lubricating when old oil and grease cause the machine to tighten up. Thanks again for your question. Love your machine!
CAN you tell me where i loosen, or what shaft or ? to adjust the timing? can tell the hook is slightly off, and misses sometimes when doing wide zig zags... thanks!
zipcrazed I've been fixing sewing machines for 20 years and still use gauges when I check and set timing. Have you tried putting in a new needle? It's the cheapest tune up you can do and is often the problem!
Hi Allen, Thanks for posting this video. I have the same machine as the one you are demonstrating with, and was wondering if you run the bobbin thread through the hole in the arm on the bobbin case? If not, what's that sucker there for? Thanks.
motobuilt73 hi motobuilt73. What a great question! I don't know why Bernina put that hole there! Some machines seem to do some stitches better when you use it. I'm surmising here but the engineer may have been thinking that routing the thread that way could make it feed smoother... I find it does change the lower tension if you use it or not. Thanks again. Allen
The hole is for drawing the thread through to make a buttonhole. I saw it on another TH-cam video
motobuilt73 sewing pin tucks
I used to feed thread thru that arm hole
luddite question: i was given an 830 bernina and was told it was a serger. i am clueless whether it IS or not and would have no idea how to identify one (a serger, compared to a regular bernina). i'll peruse manuals and things on line, and may find out soon. but i'd love to have some guidance on this. thanks in advance :)
nosowisewoman hi nosowisewoman thanks for the question. A sewing machine has one or two upper threads but most people usually use one and pair it with a bobbin and bobbin case to make a stitch. Sergers don't have a bobbin. They have typically three or four threads that peel off thread cones perched on spool pins behind the machine. Sergers also typically have a set of knives to shear the fabric to a custom width to set the seam width. An 830 Bernina is a sewing machine not a serger
Allen...have you ever repaired a bent decorative stitch lever on this machine? Is it do-able? Jane
Thank you for the great info! My light seems to get hot very fast. Should I be concerned? 🙂
Pat Lawson Hi Pat! Thanks for the excellent question! There are both 15 watt and 25 watt bulbs sold in that same size and shape! Use only 15 watts or less. Any higher wattage will get too hot! 15 watts, even though it is what is designed in still gets hot! There are “ led” bulbs of the same shape that run much much cooler. I hope this answers your question. Allen
I have a 1976 or 1978 and I can't control the speed, is there any way I can repair this. Thank you
I just bought a Bernina 830 and this is a great video. Thank you.
Tinker Bell hi tinker bell! I'm glad you found my video helpful! Thanks for you note!!!
Thank you for posting this very informative video. i own a Bernina record 830 and LOVE IT! Bizarrely I was placing a bobbin in the bobbin case and it got stuck? I could not get it out and decided to to unscrew the screw on the case to loosen it up but alas the tension is screwed up, ugh! I managed to find vintage case on eBay and hope its not damaged!!?? So my question is can the bobbin case be repaired? Thanks again for your consideration.
Hi Allen, I have an old Bernina 830 as in this video. At times I would like to use upholstery thread or button whole thread. But when I do the tension isn't correct and the stitches don't look nice. Can you tell me what I need to do to make the stitches lay nice. Of course I use a larger needle but don't know what else to do.
Nancy Eubank hi Nancy. You bring up a couple of good points, GREAT POINTS! One point is thread weight or diameter affecting tension. Yes! You can change the upper tension setting to make up for larger or smaller diameter thread and change the setting of that screw on the bobbin case we've all been told never to touch... Nothing about an 830 is beefy enough to do a " heavy thread job". In my mind it is an excellent machine for 50-60 weight thread with a 12 - 14 needle. It isn't an industrial machine and forcing it because you can will probably damage it, maybe beyond repair.
Nancy Eubank hi Nancy. This is my second attempt to answer this. My iPad ate my first try! You asked several GREAT questions. First, I love my 830 and and find it does a fabulous job with 50 - 60 weight thread and size 12 - 14. Size 14 in sharps or ballpoints are my standby. Size 09 - 11 are too small for "standard" thread to move freely through the hole in the needle. They need a smaller thread. About 4" of thread move down through then back up through the hole in the needle every stitch. Match needle size to thread diameter. Now, the 830 is not an industrial machine. If you put in a large needle and use heavy thread and crank up the tensions to sew heavy material, you still won't get a great stitch because things like the take-up spring are sized for a lighter duty use. Things like needle bars could bend. Sorry but I don't recommend an 830 be used "heavy applications"
Thank you, it helped me, I had problems for not winding the bobin well.
Hello sir I have Bernina using for almost 45 years suddenly the pedal couldn’t get a currents so when I turn it on only the machine itself running , please reply
Julie Aduca hi Julie thanks for the comment. I'm not sure if you mean the machine keeps running by itself or if you have to turn the handwheel to get the motor to start. Either of these situations should be checked out by a train tech. Oops with electricity is dangerous!
Hi, I just got a Bernina 830 record from my mother-in-law. I was wondering how to change the stitches on it. I read the manual, but it doesn't really explain the basics in there. Could you please make a video for that? Thank you!
fabianam4 thanks for the question. I will try to include that in any future videos. Meanwhile, there I a lever on the top of your machine just to the right of the stitch selector. The lever should be forward or toward you when using a zigzag or straight stitch and back or away from you when using all other stitches. You should hear a clunk when "shifting" this lever. If there is no "clunk" the oil is probably so stiff the linkage can't move. This is a common problem with these machines. It's not the machine it the old oil. Oil and grease go from being a lubricant to becoming an adhesive over time. I would bring it to a pro. Freed up this machine should be a jem! I hope this helps. Allen
How to oil a Bernini 830 ?
Thank you my friend!!! I bought my mom an old Singer... A.. something, I cant remember now... it's all metal. She only oils it... the thing won't quit and it's from the late 50's or early 60's. stitch is perfect. Why don't they make them this way anymore? I think its that A- style slant. That thing sews more perfect I think than my Bernina 830, which was made in 1980.
I paid $25 for it at a thrift store, had a cabinet. I took it to a shop and paid them $160 to look it over.... well worth it!
I think too many great old all metal machines are discarded and replaced with "stylish", "eye catching" pieces of plastic. Nowhere near as rugged! Plastic breaks all by itself! Doesn't need much help just a few years can do it... Allen
My grandma gave me her Bernina 830 when she stopped sewing, I went to use it for the first time and the pressor foot will not lower. What would be the cause of this?
Thanks in advance
Nate Christopherson hi most probably it is old oil/grease. Something bent is improbable. Try some fine oil on the vertical shaft, both upper and lower bearings. The rest of the entire machine probably needs the old oil and grease removed and all bearings and linkages freed up! 3 - 4 hrs of knowledgeable labor?
Best machine in the world Bernina.
Is it possible to use a 750 Watt AC Power Motor Aerostar LM1000 (servomotor) on the 830 record?
Thank you in advance,
Gerd
Doc Sledge Hi Doc! Tinkering can be fun! I am not familiar with your specific motor. I like to stay with factory replacement parts or proven replacements. I don't have the time to make all the modifications necessary to machines and brackets, belts, and power supplies!... I'm not sure what my insurance company would think... I like the factory motor. The brushes are a little small but are easy enough to replace. Ease to polish armature... I like the 830. If you are doing it to make it more rugged, industrial like, it has no oiling system and two plastic gears. Great domestic machine as it sits. Not rugged enough to take the hard use I associate with industrial.
Doc Sledge my Bernita 830 seems to have a slight wiggly in the straight stitch. Please help.
Sally
My Mom just got one from a neighbor (purchased in 1982). She plugged it in and the light comes on but when she pushes on the pedal nothing happens no noise or anything. Any thoughts on how to troubleshoot?
Snigdha Das Hi Snigdha Das. Wiring, motor brushes, and the electronic speed control in the foot control. I have one in my que now and I believe it is the speed control. Hope this helps. Allen
@@abberepair8288 How do we resolve the issue?
Snigdha Das hi Snigdha Das. I have had 25 years to learn some of the answers to that question. I have a degree in Robotics. The way i found to increase my speed of diagnosis is to have those components in stock. I have foot controls, cords, etc I can plug into the machines to quickly help isolate the problem. I can’t do that over the internet. There isn’t an easy at-home answer. It’s time to see someone who knows how to troubleshoot that machine. I hope this helps. Allen
@@abberepair8288 Thank you!
Snigdha Das Hi Snigdha. Thought I’d give you a quick update. The foot control speed control module was the problem for the machine on my bench. Allen
My bernina 830 zigzag adjustment dial keeps sliping back from 4. I move it to 4 and it simply rolls back to 1. I need to hold the dial to 4 to be able to zig zag or do embroidery, which is not easy. What should I do to fix it? I live in Pakistan and the person who repaired it the first time pulled out a few important washers and a capacitor. The people over here cannot be trusted with anything. That's why I want to try and fix it myself.
You are a God send sir!
rhcplvr1953 hi rhcplvr1953, glad you like my videos! Please feel free to share them. I think everyone could gain by sharing what we can! Allen
What was your dog's name? I bet he was a good boy
Hola, soy de Chile. Tengo una bernina record 830 ; modelo extremadamente excaso aqui en mi pais. Al coser siento que debo pisar muy al tope el pedal, la aguja se levanta lentamente y comienza a coser, pero debo ser muy cuidadosa o cose muy rápido. ¿Cuál podrá ser el motivo?
Vilma Valladares72 Hi Vilma Valladares. Thank you for your question. I don’t speak your language but I’ll try to get it translated! Allen
I don't have that kind of bobbin on my 830.
I have the same machine... love it!
I only buy good bobbins, and I never overload them!
stvynix they were very well made!
stvynix I will only use Bernina bobbins specifically made for these machines! I have over 40 types of bobbins in stock. All of them are for specific machines
I have the 830 too
My machine is stuck
How to reverse
Big Smile TH-cam hi. If you lift the stitch length regulator it goes in reverse. Let it drop and it will go right back to the same length stitch. Allen
Great video. Thanks. I learned something here. But man this is not about repair; the title is misleading.
Thank you so much, a generous help.
cherry miner hi Cherry. Glad you liked my video. Check out all the tips on "Anatomy of a stitch"
Cross wound thread should always come off the top. Horizontally wound thread should come off the side.... just the way it is put on. See this video as to why: th-cam.com/video/PnO5K6AA2sY/w-d-xo.html
I have this machine and suddenly it won't switch off
Ich habe gleich Bernina 💕💕💕
I feel that the title of this video is misleading. It's not a sewing machine repair. It's a "how to setup your sewing machine". That's not repairing anything.
I already knew how to do all this. But I will admit anyone who hasn't used a Bernina 830 before would find this useful.