When does the Bobbin Case Latch need replaced or serviced?
- Replace the latch when it is actually broken.
- Service the latch when it will not spring back to its original position.
To replace or service a Bobbin Case Latch, the latch will need removed. In order to remove it, access the latch screw on the inside of the bobbin case.
The
small Wera screwdriver works best for this, because the
bobbin case latch screw is very tiny. Keep a
magnetic pin dish handy to keep it safe and secure.
In the photo below, notice the little rectangular area inside the bobbin case. As the latch is lifted, the screw moves from side-to-side as it is contained within the rectangular slot. However, with the screw removed, when the latch arm is lifted, the latch will slide completely free from the bobbin case.
Sewing machine oil or kerosene will help if the latch slide is sticky or has a bit of resistance.
If after applying sewing machine oil or kerosene, the latch arm continues to stay in the up position, the latch spring may need replaced.
The
bobbin case latch spring is what returns the bobbin case latch to the closed position. Being extremely small, the spring may occasionally rust through and / or break in half. Replace a broken spring and the latch will work correctly again.
If the actual bobbin case latch is broken and needs replacing altogether, replica bobbin case latches are available
here. They are of superior quality and made to fit a
vintage original bobbin case. If you are missing your vintage original bobbin case,
TFS Replica Bobbin Cases, guaranteed to work, can be purchased here.
Replica Singer Featherweight Bobbin CaseTested, Sampled, Guaranteed
Whether replacing the spring, servicing or replacing the original latch, each scenario will need to have the latch re-installed the same way it came off, beginning with the latch arm in the up position as shown below.
To initially slide the latch on, push the latch over until the edges align.
The latch arm will then fold down into the correct position. Return the screw and the task is complete. (Do not open the latch arm until screw is securely in place again, or the latch arm will just slide off again.)
What causes the Bobbin Case Latch to break or snap off?
- Inferior bobbins, causing the bobbin case to get stuck on the hook assembly. Pulling too hard on the latch or prying on the bobbin case will cause the bobbin case latch to break.
{Related: Good vs. Bad Bobbins Tutorial}
Tools and Related Products:
How To Replace the Bobbin Case Latch
