Hi, ive just purchased a newish used singer 6038 sewing machine, every time i try to sew the thread keeps coming out of the needle and it is not sewing at all, ive checked the tension, checked i have threaded it correctly and the bobbin. While i was changing the needle, it accidently dropped through into the machine, so i had to take the whole bobbin case to pieces, could not find needle, think its gone to bottom of machine, but im not sure whether i have put the whole lot back correctly..could this be the problem? Also the big round steel ring that the bobbin case goes into moved, and im wondering if this has made it out of line for sewing..Hope someone can help..Maria.

Lucky you!

First thing to always try is a brand new needle. A lot of sewing machine problems are due to an old, dull, bent needle.

Most likely the machine has been knocked out of time--the needle and hook are out of sync. Search for sewing machine timing or take it or service.

https://singer-featherweight.com/blogs/schoolhouse/how-to-thread-a-singer-featherweight

I'm wondering if there is a possibility that a puff ball is getting in the tension, needle or bobbin. You might want to look at your thread in the light to see if it is fuzzy. Replace it with good, embroidery thread from someplace other than Walmart. Anyway, do a good cleanup in those areas to ensure there isn't buildup of thread.

Hmm, I'm wondering if it has been cleaned and oiled recently. Older mechanicals require frequent TLC. Consult your owner's manual for cleaning and maintenance instructions:

Is your sewing machine mechanical (ie, not computerized)??? CAUTION--if your machine is computerized, do NOT proceed with the following suggestions.

If it is mechanical, have you cleaned and oiled your machine recently? Most mechanical sewing machine failures are because they have not been adequately and routinely oiled, the old oil has solidified and frozen the mechanics. I recommend Bernina oil or liquid Tri-Flow Synthetic Lube (or similar good quality sewing machine oil) for mechanical machines--do NOT use 3-in-1, cooking oil, WD-40, or the sewing machine oil from your grandmother's sewing basket. (I am not associated with any Bernina dealer.)

If it is in fact frozen, pick up a bottle of liquid Tri-Flow Synthetic Oil at the hardware store. Oil one or two drops in every oil hole (see your manual) and also every place where metal rubs on metal. But DO NOT oil any plastic gears, rubber, or belts. If it is still stiff or frozen, direct a hot handheld hair dryer into the top and bottom mechanism of your machine. See if that loosens it up. You may have to repeat.

Once your machine is working again, place a drop or two of good sewing machine oil as directed above. Be sure to use a small brush to clean the lint and dirt out of your machine, especially around the feed dogs and bobbin area. (Caution: Compressed air will sometimes force the dirt and lint into areas that cannot be cleaned.) And continue to use good quality sewing machine oil to keep it running. Recommendation: every time you change a bobbin, after 8 hours of sewing, or every six months if it is not in regular use.

Is the thread pulling out of the needle when you first begin to sew? If so, be sure you are pulling sufficient thread through the needle at the outset--between 4-6 inches. You can also try bringing the bobbin thread to the top before beginning to stitch.


How and Why to Bring up the Bobbin Thread

...

1. Make sure the needle is up in the machine all the way.
2. Make sure the flat side of the needle is facing the rear of the machine
3. Only turn the handwheel on the side of the machine towards you, never away from you.
4.Double check your threading of the top of the machine.
5. Also make sure your using the proper needle, your machine takes the most common needle on the market but some look like it and are shorter or longer and wont work properly. Also make sure your not buying needles for a singer serger.

You can find Singer threading diagrams at http://www.singerco.com/resources/threading.html.

need needle threading instructions singer 3116 simple. pictures would help. thank you

That sounds like the needle is not in straight or is bent.

You can order parts through the Singer parts centers listed on this page:
http://www.singerco.com/support/replacement_parts_ssc_list.html

you need to insert the bobbin so that when the thread pulls off it spins counter clockwise. on the side closest to you there is a notch that you slip the thread into and then pull along the side towards the back of the machine staying on the left. once you've done that you can manually turn the knob on the side to make the needle cycle down so that the upper thread will pull up the bobbin thread.