Replacing the plastic spiral bevel gear within the Tajima TFMX-IIC 1506 embroidery machine is a critical maintenance procedure necessitated by wear, chipping, or excessive backlash leading to compromised stitch quality, thread breaks, or unusual machine noise. This gear transmits motion between intersecting shafts at a 90-degree angle within the machine’s head assembly, demanding precise meshing for smooth operation. Undertaking this replacement requires mechanical aptitude, adherence to safety protocols, and meticulous attention to detail to avoid damage to adjacent components or misalignment. Always consult the official Tajima service manual for your specific machine serial number before proceeding, as variations exist. Disconnect the machine from all electrical power sources and pneumatics before initiating any work. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and nitrile gloves to protect against sharp edges and contaminants. Gather the required tools: replacement Tajima-approved plastic spiral bevel gear (obtain the correct part number from the manual or authorized dealer), precision screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips), needle-nose pliers, a set of metric hex keys (Allen wrenches), a small torque wrench (optional but recommended for critical fasteners), lint-free cloths, high-purity isopropyl alcohol for cleaning, and a suitable gear lubricant specified by Tajima (often a light machine oil or specific grease). Avoid using generic lubricants. Prepare a clean, well-lit workspace free of debris. Document the disassembly process with photographs or notes, particularly noting wire routing and component orientation, to aid reassembly. Begin by removing the machine’s outer covers and hoods to access the embroidery head assembly. Locate the specific head requiring gear replacement. Identify the gear housing, typically situated near the needle bar drive mechanism. Carefully disconnect any electrical connectors or sensors near the work area, labeling them if necessary. Remove obstructing components like thread guides, tension assemblies, or needle bar linkages as needed for clear access, storing fasteners separately. The gear housing is usually secured by several small screws. Remove these screws methodically, noting their positions. Gently separate the housing halves. Inside, the plastic spiral bevel gear will be visible, meshed with its mating metal gear. Observe the gear’s orientation and meshing pattern carefully. Clean the surrounding area with lint-free cloths and isopropyl alcohol to prevent debris ingress. Before removing the faulty gear, note the precise positioning of any shims or spacers on the shaft; their correct reinstallation is vital for proper gear lash. The gear is likely secured to its shaft via a small setscrew or press-fit. If a setscrew is present, loosen it completely using the correct size hex key. Avoid excessive force. For press-fit gears, use dedicated gear pullers if necessary, exercising extreme caution to avoid damaging the shaft or housing. Never pry against plastic components. Extract the worn gear. Thoroughly clean the shaft and the mating metal gear using isopropyl alcohol and lint-free cloths, removing all old lubricant and debris. Inspect the mating metal gear for wear, scoring, or damage; replacement might be necessary if imperfections are found. Install the new Tajima-approved plastic spiral bevel gear onto the shaft in the exact same orientation as the old gear. If press-fit, apply gentle, even pressure. If secured by a setscrew, align it correctly and tighten the setscrew firmly to the manufacturer’s specified torque, ensuring it seats properly without damaging the gear. Reinstall any shims or spacers in their original locations. Apply a thin, even film of the specified Tajima lubricant to the gear teeth of both the new plastic gear and the mating metal gear. Avoid over-lubrication, as excess lubricant can attract lint and cause slippage. Carefully realign the housing halves, ensuring no wires are pinched. Reinstall the housing screws, tightening them gradually and evenly in a cross pattern to prevent distortion. Reconnect any electrical connectors or sensors. Reinstall any components removed for access, ensuring correct alignment and tension settings. Double-check all fasteners for security. Reattach the machine covers. Before powering on, manually rotate the main shaft by hand through several full cycles to feel for any binding, roughness, or unexpected resistance. This checks for gross misalignment. Reconnect power and pneumatics. Initiate a slow test run without thread, observing the head’s operation. Listen for unusual noises like grinding or clicking. Visually inspect the replaced gear area during operation for excessive vibration. If abnormal operation occurs, immediately power down and recheck the installation. Finally, run a test embroidery design on scrap fabric. Monitor closely for skipped stitches, thread breaks, or irregular needle movement, which could indicate incorrect gear meshing or backlash. Successful replacement restores quiet, efficient operation and precise stitch formation. This procedure underscores the importance of using genuine parts, meticulous cleanliness, accurate reassembly, and careful testing to maintain the Tajima TFMX-IIC 1506’s performance and longevity. Improper execution risks severe damage to the head assembly. If uncertainty arises at any stage, consult a qualified Tajima service technician.
(how to change plastic spiral bevel gear b tajima tfmx-iic 1506 embroidery machine)