April 01, 2015

How to replace a sewing machine on/off switch

How to replace a sewing machine on/off switch

This DIY repair guide explains how to replace the on/off switch on a sewing machine. The on/off switch turns on the sewing machine's power and work light. If the work light won't come on with a new bulb when you turn on the on/off switch, replace the switch with the manufacturer-approved replacement part.

Use these steps to replace the on/off switch in common Kenmore and Brother sewing machines.

Quick links
Tools required
Phillips screwdriver
Work gloves
Repair difficulty
Time required
30 minutes or less
Repair difficulty
Time required
30 minutes or less
Replacing an on/off switch in a sewing machine

This video explains how to replace the on/off switch in a sewing machine.

Instructions

  1. 01.

    Shut off the electricity

    Unplug the sewing machine’s power cord from the wall outlet.

  2. 02.

    Remove the drive belt cover

    Remove the screws securing the belt cover to the sewing machine and pull the belt cover off.

    PHOTO: Remove the front screw from the belt cover.

    PHOTO: Remove the front screw from the belt cover.

    PHOTO: Remove the bottom screw from the belt cover.

    PHOTO: Remove the bottom screw from the belt cover.

  3. 03.

    Remove the On/Off switch

    Remove the screws securing the On/Off switch to the mounting bracket.

    Remove the terminal block mounting screws and remove the terminal block.

    Disconnect the On/Off switch wires from the terminal block and remove the On/Off switch.

    PHOTO: Remove the terminal block mounting screws.

    PHOTO: Remove the terminal block mounting screws.

    PHOTO: Remove the on/off switch wires from the terminal block.

    PHOTO: Remove the on/off switch wires from the terminal block.

    PHOTO: Remove the on/off switch from the sewing machine.

    PHOTO: Remove the on/off switch from the sewing machine.

  4. 04.

    Install the new On/Off switch

    Connect the new On/Off switch wires to the terminal block.

    Reinstall the terminal block and screws. Position the new On/Off switch on the mounting bracket and reinstall the mounting screws.

    PHOTO: Reconnect the on/off switch wires.

    PHOTO: Reconnect the on/off switch wires.

    PHOTO: Install the new on/off switch.

    PHOTO: Install the new on/off switch.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the terminal block.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the terminal block.

  5. 05.

    Reinstall the belt cover

    Position the belt cover on the sewing machine and reinstall the belt cover mounting screws.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the drive belt cover.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the drive belt cover.

  6. 06.

    Restore power

    Plug the sewing machine into the electrical outlet.

Warning: Undertaking repairs to appliances can be hazardous. Use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs should only be performed by a qualified technician.

Most common symptoms to help you fix your sewing machines

Choose a symptom to see related sewing machine repairs.

Main causes: dirty shuttle race, improper thread routing, incorrect thread tension…

Main causes: dirty shuttle race, wrong thread tension, bad needle timing, damaged needle, using the wrong type of needle…

Main causes: thread bunched up in the shuttle race, bad needle timing, internal drive gear failures…

Main causes: machine needs lubrication, internal gear failure…

Main causes: problems with the feed dogs, setting stitch length to 0…

Main causes: lack of lubrication, lint buildup, worn drive belt, faulty drive motor…

Main causes: disengaged clutch, broken drive belt, internal drive gear failure…

Main causes: faulty foot pedal, locked drive gears, wiring failure, bad drive motor…

Main causes: power supply failure, bad power cord, faulty On/Off switch…

Most common repair guides to help fix your sewing machines

These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your sewing machine.

How to replace a sewing machine on/off switch

How to replace a sewing machine on/off switch

If the sewing machine is completely dead, replace the On/Off switch using these 6 steps.…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 30 minutes or less
How to replace a sewing machine drive belt

How to replace a sewing machine drive belt

You can replace a broken sewing machine drive belt in about 15 minutes. …

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
How to replace a sewing machine drive motor

How to replace a sewing machine drive motor

If the drive motor on your sewing machine runs roughly or doesn't run at all, you can replace it in about 30 minutes usi…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less

Effective articles & videos to help repair your sewing machines

Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your sewing machine.

How to enjoy all the online benefits we offer on our Sears PartsDirect website

How to enjoy all the online benefits we offer on our Sears PartsDirect website

Learn about all the convenient features on our Sears PartsDirect website that make your parts purchases easier.…

Top questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect

Top questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect

Get answers to frequently asked questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect.…

How to use a multimeter to test electrical parts video

How to use a multimeter to test electrical parts video

Learn how to use a multimeter to check for wiring problems in an appliance that's not working…