Overlocker Coverstitch Problem

[Chris Adams]

I have a Bernina Overlocker 1300mdc and cannot get the coverstitch to work properly. I noticed from other threads regarding coverstitch that problems are not uncommon.

My problem is that the left hand needle only catches occasionally. Sometimes I get a few stitches and very occasionally I get a row of stitches with missed stitches in between. I have tried everything I can think of and have spent about 4 hours rethreading and playing with tensions. The overlocker does not need servicing and I have cleaned it and put new coverstitch needles in. I have tried sewing on cotton where I get occasional results but what I really want to use it on is knitted jersey to take some trousers up. I am getting the same results on both fabrics but it is definitely worse on the jersey. The right hand needles works fine.

Please can anyone suggest anything as I am totally out of ideas.

Chris

[sewingrandma]

Chris I have a brother cs machine so can't really help with your machine but I did find a lot of info on many different cs machines on the pattern review forum.
The general info is what you have already done. I did find using stretch needles helped when I was stitching on knits and using the cone socks helped also. Another suggestion I read was to use maxilock thread on the looper only and use regular sewing machine thread on the needles. Good luck and hope you find the right combo that works on your machine. I'm sure others will check in and give their suggestions also.

[Skye]

How frustrating for you. Have you tried using Schmetz ELx 705 needles?
I have Elna overlocker and Janome coverstitch machine so not experienced with Bernina

But I seem to recall hearing about this problem with your model over on patternreview being fixed by using the EL needles.

[MartySews2]

I have the Ovation combo serger and when I have left needle issues (rarely), I make sure the presser foot is up when threading. I also make sure that the needle is all the way up in the slot. Another help is using your thread nets so that the threads do not get entangled with one another and slip their tension disks. If you use regular sewing machine needles, with lycra knits, use sharps. I only use Schmetz ELX-705 needles in my serger. Hope some of these troubleshooting tips help.
Marty

[Chris Adams]

Thank you all for your help. For coverstitch on my machine they advise JLX2 needles but I will get some of the Schmetz ELx 705 and Maxilock thread and give them a try as well.

I will also try all the other suggestions and have a look at the pattern review forum.

Can't seem to think about anything else at the moment but solving this problem. Even dreaming coverstitch but I'm sure that most of you have experienced this as well.

If I find a resolve I will let you all know.

Thanks again.

Chris