Pfaff quiltstyle 2042 sewing machine. The switch that converts the stitch from straight to zigzag wont work. Something must be wrong with the component, maybe a lever or something like that.. I am trying to order the parts needed to fix this machine but i cant figure out what the parts are called to fix this problem. I was hoping someone could tell me what the parts are called. thank you

SOURCE: Singer 5050

I was hoping you would have got another answer, I have a mechanical sewing machine ( Singer 5040) with the exact same problem. However, if i use the programed stitches I can sew a zigzag. If i do it manually and set the zigzag width to any width ( even the widest) I get only the same straight stitch, and no mater what length I select it is the same too, very close to gether about 1 1/2 inch stitch.
I took my entire maching apart to expose inside both top side and underneath, nothing apeared loose or broke and i oiled it up. I bought a new bobbin holder and still the same effect. So it has to be something serious is my conclusion...sounds like a trip to Sears to me...LOL

SOURCE: Machine sews zigzag although stitch is set at 0 for straight

It must be a design flaw- things don't always last like they are supposed to. I would personally check the physical reason it is not responding... knowing what it would take to make it stop moving- or whatis causing it to. *perhaps the switch isn't working to stop it- or the mechanism that controls it is worn down. If it was new- I'd return it- but there are only a few options at this point.

SOURCE: Kenmore 2142 sewing machine won't zigzag.

Before you put the cam in did you make sure the machine was set on straight stitch and then select zig zag?

SOURCE: I can't get my Pfaff 230a to straight stitch!

The stitch selector switch is most likely the culprit. Have you tried operating the machine upside down?

SOURCE: PFAFF 362 Sewing Machine: The shift

I just fixed this on my pfaff 230-the problem is the needle position dial-the middle dial with the chrome lever on the right-has froze up .
remove the dial-it doesn't come off by the screwhead in the middle of the dial ,the screw you need to loosen is the one under the wider end of the part of the dial you hold-you will need a glasses screwdriver.
once it is off ,heat the exposed shaft with a heat gun while turning the shaft back and forth with pauses for dripping 3 in 1 oil on the shaft so the heat melts the hardened grease and draws the 3 in1 in to flush out the old grease and lube the shaft.
eventually you will be able to turn the shaft easily-then when it cools off replace the plastic dial.make sure your upper dial is on "0" there is a cam on it that will push down the other end of the chrome lever.
This will work-there is no plastic in the shaft and arm assembly to melt and you don't have to dissasemble from the top-that sucks.