Bobbin Winding Not Working
Brother Sewing Machine
Severity: MinorWhat Does This Error Mean?
Bobbin not winding usually means the bobbin winder spindle is not pushed to the right, the bobbin is not seated on the spindle, or the rubber tire that drives the winding is worn. Push the spindle to the winding position and check the tire.
Affected Models
- Brother CS7000X
- Brother SE600
- Brother SE1900
- Brother XR9550
- Most Brother machines
Common Causes
- Bobbin winder spindle not pushed to the right (winding position)
- Bobbin not seated properly on the spindle
- Rubber drive tire worn or cracked
- Thread not threaded through the bobbin tension disc
- Inner bobbin pin broken
How to Fix It
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Push the bobbin winder spindle firmly to the right.
It must click into the winding position. If it is in the center or left, the winder will not engage.
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Make sure the bobbin is fully seated and the thread is through the tension disc.
The thread must go through the small tension disc near the bobbin winder (not the main tension). Wrap a few turns around the bobbin by hand first.
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Check the rubber tire on the winder.
The small rubber ring that drives the bobbin wears out over time. If it is cracked or flat, replace it ($2-$5 part).
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Press the foot pedal — the needle should NOT move during winding.
When the spindle is in winding position, only the bobbin spins. If the needle moves too, the spindle is not engaged.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the bobbin wind unevenly?
The thread is not going through the bobbin winding tension disc. Without tension, thread piles up on one side.
Can I use pre-wound bobbins?
Yes, as long as they are the correct class for your machine. Brother machines typically use Class 15 or SA156 bobbins.