If your tufting machine starts or keeps running even without pressing the activation button, you are probably facing the common auto-run issue. This guide, designed for artisans, makers, and textile professionals, explains step by step why it happens, how to diagnose it, and how to fix it safely. We’ll also show you how to prevent the problem from coming back with essential but effective maintenance.
Index
- 1) Symptoms and risks: what is auto-run
- 2) Safety first: what to do immediately
- 3) Typical causes and how to recognize them
- 4) Quick diagnosis: 5 fast tests
- 5) Fixes (3 real cases)
- 6) Reference video
- 7) Prevention: cleaning, lubrication, and good practices
- 8) FAQ: frequently asked questions
- 9) Useful resources and Kreoho links
1) Symptoms and risks: what is auto-run
Auto-run means the behavior where the tufting machine stays active (or turns on by itself) even if the start button is not pressed. In practice, you might notice:
- The motor keeps spinning when you release the button.
- The machine starts immediately when plugged into the power source.
- A “spongy” or imprecise feeling when the button comes back up.
The risks: accelerated wear of gears and the needle guide, overheating, loss of control while working, and possible electrical damage. Stopping this issue right away is the smartest choice for your safety and for the life of your machine.
2) Safety first: what to do immediately
Before performing any checks:
- Unplug the machine from the socket (or remove the battery on cordless models).
- Wait 2–3 minutes to discharge any residual energy.
- Work on a stable table, with good lighting and protective glasses.
These simple steps prevent unexpected starts and possible shocks.
3) Typical causes and how to recognize them
Auto-run can depend on mechanical tolerances (button/handle), electrical contacts not working correctly (grounding/tabs), or a worn-out button assembly. Often a small, precise adjustment is enough to restore normal stopping.
- Mechanical interference: overly tightened screws (handle screw), levers not returning properly, or a weak spring.
- Grounding contact issues: disconnected or poorly soldered ground wire; tabs not meeting when moving back; oil/lubricant/fiber residue on the contacts.
- Button housing/assembly worn or defective: the internal switch no longer opens/closes with precision.
4) Quick diagnosis: 5 fast tests
Proceed in this order (always with the machine unplugged):
- Button “click” check: press and release the button while listening for the micro-switch sound. If the click is muffled or missing, the button assembly may be the issue.
- Mechanical return: when releasing the button, does it return immediately or slowly? If it resists, the central handle screw may be too tight.
- Visual inspection of ground tabs: when the scissors retract, the two metal tabs connected to the ground must make contact. If they don’t touch, grounding fails and the machine won’t stop.
- Residue on ground contacts: lint and excess lubricant on contact points may prevent stopping. Clean with a dry cloth and brush.
- Wiring: check the ground wire (properly connected and free from cold solder joints); tighten any loose terminals.
5) Effective fixes (3 real cases)
Here are the three most effective interventions to solve auto-run. Follow them in order: often the first one is enough.
5.1 Fix #1 — Central handle screw too tight
The central handle screw holds the two halves of the casing together. If tightened too much (for example after cleaning), it can compress the inner parts and block the natural return of the button. Result: the actuator stays pressed, and the motor doesn’t stop.
Solution: loosen the central handle screw by half a turn and test the return of the lever. The goal is to find the balance point where the handle is stable but not deforming the inner mechanism.
- Unplug the machine.
- With a suitable screwdriver, loosen the central screw by half a turn.
- Press and release the button: it should snap back into place.
- If needed, fine-adjust by tightening or loosening 1/8 turn at a time.
Tip: if the return is still sluggish, check that nothing is interfering with the casing and that the spring is properly seated and intact.
5.2 Fix #2 — Ground contact issue
In many models the “stop” function is also ensured by the ground contact that occurs when the scissors retract: proper contact between the two metal tabs allows the safety circuit to interrupt motion when the button is released. In some cases the controller may not receive the stop signal.
Common causes
- Ground wire disconnected or poorly soldered (cold solder joint).
- Residues of oil, lubricant, or lint on the tabs.
- Misalignment of the tabs (wrongly repositioned after cleaning or impact).
How to fix
- Clean contacts: with the machine unplugged, remove lint and oil from the contacts using a dry cloth and brush. Avoid aggressive sprays.
- Check ground wire: ensure it’s attached firmly, without cold solder joints. Replace or reconnect if needed.
- Realign tabs: use a hex key (to loosen/tighten micro supports) and a coin as a spacing guide to make sure the tabs touch perfectly when the scissors retract.
- Bench test: press and release with the machine unplugged, observing the tabs. They should always make contact smoothly.
If cleaning, realignment, and ground wire checks don’t solve the issue, move on to Fix #3.
When the button assembly (the switch) is worn or defective, it may remain “closed” or fail to open/close precisely. The good news: on most models, it can be replaced without soldering, since the wires connect with integrated metal clamps.
How to replace the button assembly
- Disconnect the power supply.
- Access the button compartment by removing the cover (if applicable).
- Note (or take a photo of) the wire order, then unclip the clamps from the old button.
- Attach the wires to the new button, respecting polarity/order (as in the photo).
- Reinstall the cover, connect the machine, and test the “click” and stop function.
Tip: always choose replacement parts compatible with your model and of equal quality to the original.
Find spare parts and maintenance accessories
6) Reference Video
Watch a practical example of the auto-run behavior and the key diagnostic points in the following video:
Click on the image to open the video on YouTube
7) Prevention: cleaning, lubrication, and best practices
The most effective way to prevent the return of auto-run is to keep the machine clean and well lubricated. Yarn residues and excess oil are among the main causes of misalignment and faulty contacts.
7.1 Recommended routine
- After each session: remove lint with a soft-bristle brush from the handle area, needle guide, scissors, and metal tabs.
- Every 2–4 weeks (depending on use): lubricate only the mechanical parts (guides and pivots). Avoid oil on electrical contacts and circuit boards.
- Check the central handle screw: it should be stable but not overtightened.
- Inspect the grounding cable and connectors: no oxidation or “cold” solder joints.
- Proper storage: keep in a dry, clean place, covered, away from dust.
For a complete guide on oiling points and recommended products:
Cleaning & Lubrication: step-by-step guide
8) FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I keep working if the machine doesn’t stop?
Better not. You risk damaging both your project and the components. Stop immediately and follow the diagnosis and interventions outlined in this guide.
• How do I know if the issue comes from the handle screw or the grounding contact?
If the activation button has a slow or inconsistent return after tightening the casing, start with the central handle screw. If the button returns properly but the machine doesn’t stop when the scissors retract, check the metal tabs and grounding cable.
• The machine starts as soon as I plug it in: is it the activation button?
Not always. It could be a grounding contact problem or, in rare cases, a controller module that remains “on”. If the three interventions in this guide don’t solve the issue, contact support.
• What kind of oil should I use for regular maintenance?
A light, neutral oil (multi-purpose, like 3-in-1 or a clear unscented type). Avoid heavy oils or aggressive sprays near electrical contacts.
• Can I replace the activation button unit without soldering?
Yes, in most models the wires connect through integrated metal clamps. Disconnect, replace, and reconnect, making sure to follow the correct wire order.
