Bernina 1008 - tension problems

please check that the foot is attached on the drop arm in the correct position as it sounds like the foot is not down far enough to reach the base plate I have had the same problem when you have more than one foot in your spares box eric

There is no presser foot tension adjustment on the 1008. Please restate the request as to why you would want to increase presser bar tension.
SewTechnical Home

Usually the Niva is a model 900 or a Model 1008 is not a nova?
If a model 900 there is a small hole in the bottom of machine that a small screwdriver can be inserted to rotate the speed regulator
I have often had to remove entire electronic board and send it in to BERNINA to have the electronics rebuilt. With
The Bernina 1008 the least expensive way to cure the problem is to purchase a newer style foot control and cord. In Canada about $99

"Nesting or Rat's Nesting" on the bottom side of Bernina sewing machines (CB hook type) is generally the result of very loose top tension. If the problem is found in newer sewing machines such as machines made after 1986 (serial numbers beginning with 26xx xxxx), may have an older Bernina bobbin case in the machine. The problem with the older bobbin cases is that the rounded projection of the latch on the left side of the casing will catch thread, preventing easy thread escapement during the take-up lever cycling resulting in loops on the bottom side and or thread breakage, etc..
Note:....Timings and modified latch geometry's were applied to later models to allow for good thread escapement. Older Bernina cases cannot be used on newer machines but newer cases can be used on all CB hook Bernina machines.
Additionally, Chinese copies of the Bernina/Cerliani OEM bobbin are rampant and can cause sewing issues. Always ask for OEM Bernina cases.

Note the following trouble shooting logic:
1. The center tension disk that is visible through the thread slot in the top cover of most machines must be positioned exactly in the middle of the top cover slot. By loosening the fixing screws on the top tension mechanism, one can adjust the disk position to center.
2. It would be a very rare situation for the top tension to change whatsoever from the (red center marking) factory setting. The most likely cause of loose top tension under the normal center mark position, would be accumulated lint, thread, or a sticky substance between the disks. This would prevent the tension compression disks from applying an even tension on the sewing yarn (thread). Often this can be blown out with compressed air when the presser foot lever is lifted in the up position. In some cases, soft drinks and other sticky or corrosive liquids can find their way between the disks. In this case, the tension assembly must be removed, disassembled, and the disks cleaned and polished.
3. Check the facial surfaces of the bobbin case for corrosion, and sticky substances that prevents the thread from easily sliding over the bobbin case.
4. Check that the spindle of the hook body is not bent or warped, causing the bobbin case to wobble, thus creating an intermittent pressure on the hook race cover at the moment that the thread is trying to escape over the bobbin case finger. (Replace the hook body)
5. Inspect the undercut on the hook body spindle for thread wrappings and knots. This condition can cause the bobbin case to press hard against the hook race cover, hence hindered thread escapement .
6. Exceedingly tight bottom tension can cause some problems as well. ( If you don't know how to adjust Bernina bobbin cases to factory settings, please ask).
7. Hook timing, (loop lift) can be out enough to affect thread escapement. This is typical of newer machines made after 1986 since Bernina no longer made fixed timed machines like the earlier Swiss made models. The later made models have timing components that can slip under stressed machine mechanics.
SewTechnical Home ">

Hello. Make sure the bobbin is not backward. It seems the upper tension is still not adjusted right. If the bobbin pulls smooth focus on the top tension. Good Luck

here are 2 link to choose from
http://sewusa.com/Sewing_Machine_Manuals/Bernina_Manuals/1008_Instruction_Manual.htm


http://www.sewingpartsonline.com/instruction-manual-bernina-1008.aspx

Are you sure you are getting the top thread between the tension discs? You should be able to tell the difference when you lower the pressed foot.

it sounds like the bobbin case needs to be replaced, have you cleaned under the needle plate & bobbin area for lint & loose threads
I also would suggest to take the machine to a different sewing machine repair shop.

In checking I can either adjust the tenion screw and if that does not work, purchase a new bobbin case.

Hi, I'm guessing you have the bobbin in the bobbincase upside down and its turning the wrong way. Or the machine is not thread correctly. Possibly there is junk in between the tension discs at the top that the thread goes between. Just some thoughts.
Rick