EMC 10: Picker Doesn't Pick Up the Thread

If the picker is not properly picking up the thread after a trim, you may experience short tails, no tails, or excessively long thread tails. These issues can lead to thread breaks, poor starts, and inconsistent embroidery quality.

What Does the Picker Do?

The picker is responsible for controlling the thread immediately after a trim cycle. Proper picker operation helps ensure the correct amount of thread remains in the needle so the machine can begin sewing normally after a color change or trim.

Check Thread Tension Settings

Thread tension plays a significant role in how the picker performs.

Thread Tension Too Tight

If the upper thread tension is too tight, the machine may produce short tails or no tails after trimming.

Inspect the main black tension knobs and verify that the silver tension wheels can rotate freely. If necessary, reduce the upper thread tension by turning the black tension knob counterclockwise approximately two turns at a time and retest.

Thread Tension Too Loose

If the upper thread tension is too loose, the machine may leave excessively long thread tails after trimming.

Increase the upper thread tension by turning the main black tension knob clockwise approximately two turns at a time and perform a test sew after each adjustment.

Check Bobbin Tension

Excessive bobbin tension can also affect thread pickup.

If the bobbin tension is too tight, the upper thread may be pulled completely out of the needle eye during the trim cycle. When sewing resumes, the needle will not be threaded, resulting in an immediate thread break.

Inspect the bobbin tension and adjust it if necessary according to the EMC 10 tension adjustment procedures.

Additional Inspection

If tension adjustments do not resolve the issue, inspect the picker mechanism and related components using the procedures outlined in the EMC 10 Technical Manual. Worn, damaged, or misadjusted picker components can prevent proper thread pickup and lead to inconsistent trimming results.

Final Check

After making any adjustments, perform several trim and sew cycles to verify that the machine consistently leaves the proper thread tail length and resumes sewing without thread breaks.