Why does my overlocker needle keep snapping?

Question

I have both needles threaded but when I started to sew today the one on the right snapped. I put a new one in and it did the same. Last time I used it (quite a lot) this never happened. I'm puzzled.

Answer 1

it is a tension problem...adjust and keep trying

Answer 2

Needles or thread are snapping?  If you're breaking needles, carefully turn the handwheel and watch the stitch formation.  Chances are one of the loopers is out of time or malpositioned, which is a trip to the shop for most people.

If it's thread breaking, make sure the thread tree is up completely, the tensions are clean, and lighten the tensions somewhat.  Also try a different color of thread... dark colors tend not to be as strong as lighter ones because of dyeing.

Answer 3

mine did the same thing, it was a problem with the tension,

Answer 4

You are either threading it from the back instead of the front or the right needle is misaligned and catching on the edge of the bobbin. Have a great day!

Answer 5

If the needle is snapping, then it's either hitting something ... or something is bending it.

Run the serger manually via the handwheel and watch the workings -- can you see anything striking the needle?  

If not, then continue to operate manually -- watch the needle.  Is it beginning to bend?  If so, why?  Is the thread pulling it?  Or, is the fabric pulling it?