Unjamming a Carriage
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Unjamming a Knitting Machine Carriage A Carriage jam occurs when the carriage stops moving freely along the Needle bed during operation. This can be caused by various factors, including Needles that are bent or out of position, yarn tangles, or issues with the carriage's internal Cams or mechanisms. Addressing a carriage jam promptly can prevent further damage to the machine or the knitting project.[1]
Troubleshooting Steps
When a knitting machine carriage becomes stuck, it is important to proceed systematically to identify and resolve the issue.
Initial Checks
- Do not panic. While a stuck carriage can be frustrating, most jams can be resolved without professional intervention.[2]
- Turn off the machine. Completely power down the knitting machine for at least 30 seconds. This can sometimes reset electronic components or release tension.[1]
- Inspect the needle bed. Carefully check the entire Needle bed for any bent, broken, or misaligned Needles. A single damaged needle can impede carriage movement. Also look for yarn tangles or obstructions in the path of the carriage.
- Check the yarn path. Ensure the yarn is feeding smoothly and is not snagged anywhere from the cone to the Yarn feeder.
Attempting to Move the Carriage Electronically (if applicable)
- For some electronic knitting machines, after restarting, there may be menu options to move the carriage a small increment. For example, some machines might have functions like "Car +6" or "Car -6" to shift the carriage slightly to one side or the other.[1] Attempting this may free the carriage if it's only lightly stuck.
Manual Carriage Movement
- Turn off the machine again. If electronic movement fails, power down the machine before attempting manual force.
- Apply gentle, firm force. Try to move the carriage manually to one side or the other. It is generally acceptable to use a bit of force, but avoid excessive force that could bend parts.[1]
Manipulating Carriage Cams
- If the carriage still won't move, the internal cam system may be jammed. This often requires accessing the carriage's internal mechanisms.
- Consult your machine's manual. Always refer to your specific machine's manual for instructions on how to safely access and manipulate internal carriage components.
- Locate the cam-setting mechanism. On some machines, this involves removing a cover from the carriage to expose a wheel or lever that controls the Cams.
- Slowly adjust the cams. While gently attempting to move the carriage manually, slowly turn the cam-setting wheel or adjust the cam levers. The cams are responsible for setting the needles to perform different actions (knit, tuck, miss, etc.). Changing the cam settings can sometimes release the jam.[1]
- Repeat for both front and rear cam systems. If your machine has separate cam systems for the front and rear of the carriage, repeat this process for both.
Common Causes of Jams
- Damaged Needles: Bent or broken needles are a very common cause of carriage jams, especially if they are in the path of the carriage's cams.[1]
- Yarn Tangles: Yarn getting caught under the carriage, around needles, or in the cam system can prevent smooth movement.
- Incorrect Settings: Using incorrect carriage settings for the yarn or stitch pattern can sometimes lead to jams.
- Lack of Lubrication: An unlubricated needle bed or carriage can cause increased friction, leading to the carriage sticking.
- Debris: Lint, dust, or small pieces of yarn can accumulate in the carriage or needle bed, causing obstructions.
Prevention
- Regularly clean and lubricate your knitting machine according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Inspect needles frequently for damage and replace them as needed.
- Ensure yarn is feeding smoothly and tension is appropriate.
- Always use the correct carriage settings for your project.