Arm Looping I just got a pair of 1200's MKII and one of them is constantly looping, the needle does move on the grooves its stays fixated at one point! Any Ideas?

Be sure you are using a brand new needle.

Remove the thread from the machine.

ALWAYS RAISE THE PRESSER FOOT and rethread the upper thread from the beginning. Make sure the thread path is correct.

Verify the bobbin is installed and turning the correct direction in the bobbin case and that the bobbin thread is threaded through the bobbin tension mechanism.

Set the upper tension to the midway point between high & low number--this may require some adjustment for your particular machine.

Pull the bobbin thread to the top of your sewing project before beginning to stitch.
How and Why to Bring up the Bobbin Thread

Re-test your machine on a scrap quilt sandwich (make sure the walking foot is installed correctly and that the presser foot is lowered when beginning to stitch).

Consult the owner's manual for instructions for presser foot pressure. The pressure may need to be adjusted because you are dealing with a sandwich that is thicker than regular fabric.

You may also try changing the type and size sewing machine needle you are using. Using a Top Stitch or Microtext needle will help the needle to penetrate the fabric sandwich easier. A Top Stitch needle has a larger groove to protect the thread as it pierces the fabric which helps prevent looping.

Also, verify the thread is not too small for the needle's eye.

All About Needles

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Hello Shirley, I suggest you make sure the machine is threaded correctly. If you have a factory manual, that would be a help. It sounds as though the needle thread is not threaded through the take up arm and/or take up arm spring. The needle thread tensioner might be too loose.

First off, Congratulations on such a excellent deal! That's a $500.00 turntable. I know I own a pair and I've been a DJ for 18 years.

Second, the Technics 1200 does not have an auto return. You have to pick up the needle and bring it back manually.

needle plate may be sanded lightly for nicks and scratches. Timing is probably off, need to see an expert repair service in your area.

I watched a 'You Tube' demo that showed ........if you loosen or tighten the very small screw at the base of the bobbin this gives you the correct tension & stops the looping under the fabric........I didn't even know this screw existed ! It is trial & era at first re the correct tension but you do get there.... the art is to do it in small mini stages.....like you hardly move it ! Thanks to 'You Tube' I can now get on and finish my drapes !

Try a different needle. Use a quilting or topstitch or even a metallic needle - one that has a larger scarf than normal. The scarf is the groove at the back of the needle where the thread goes while the stitch is being formed. Quilting threads often need more "room" there. I have been told that the Inspira quilting needles are good because they have a thread groove on the front and the back of the needle. Not tried them personally but might be worthwhile for you to consider.

For the looping, you could fiddle with your tensions a little either loosening the bobbin tension or tightening the top, or both. Only ever do this in very small increments. But the good news is that even the "professional" quilters do not have perfect quilt backs - just have a look at them at quilt shows!
Pam M.

Bottom looping says upper tension problems (too loose). Rethread it making sure the presser foot is up so the thread is inbetween the tension discs.

The Fisher Price record player has a device that prevented kids from pressing the needle down and sctratching the record. If you look at the cartridge where the needle is inserted, you will see that it floats up and down. The problem is that this keeps the needle from having enough pressure to play the record. Pennies just make the cartridge recede further into the arm. If you wedge something above the cartridge, the needle won't float and the it will play your records. I've had four of these and none of them worked until I figured this out.

You have a bad tone arm. I have the same tables. You need to get it repaired if under warrenty. Or there is a service manaul online you can get from ebay. Service center for our tables is Panasonic.

I had the same problem on mine. But while it is in the shop they recalibarte it

Generally speaking, needle should follow the groove, if following not present:

1. dust and grime built up in the groove that stops need to pass. you should be able to hear "click, click, click" each time needle comes to the same spot. - clean your record in details.
2. cartridge/arm bias and weight too light causing needle to skid over path. - adjust the effective bias and weight according to cartridge spec.

If problem persist, write me again.

pc-cook