Sewing Machine Interference Capacitor

Bernina  smoking and running by itself or causing a dead short


The interference capacitors go faulty because of age and quality. It is common with the older Bernina machines lioke the Bernina Favourite 830, Minimatic, Sport, 807, 800, 808 etc.  and even newer models: 1120, 1000, etc. This is not isolated to Bernina and can happen to the Husqvarna, Pfaff, Singer Machines.
On the older machines it should be an straight forward repair, but on the newer models the capacitors are inter graded into the power supplies.

The interference capacitor has gone faulty on your motor or in your foot control(Depending on the type). The machine will work fine without it but it won't meet IEC International Standards to help prevent interference between systems. (Static on your radio, TV etc.). If you are not sure check with a qualified electrical worker. Your can find more information at the following links:

Bernina Capacitors
http://www.standards.co.nz
Sewing Machine Electronics
Forum
FAQ's


A new one should be about $100NZD or you can make one up. I'll also add a link to a post on the wiring diagram that you can get directly from the electric component. Remember to comply to electrical and safety regulations.

On request I'll try and provide more information on how to make up a new interference capacitor.l


Wiring Diagram






Bernina 1010
Pfaff 1222
Pfaff 1222

Bernina 1120, 1130, 1230
Elna Star Series



Testing for electrical safety


15 comments:

  1. Hi there with regards to the Bernina Record 830 in the UK is it ok to just remove the blown capacitor on the motor or should a new one be fitted?
    Many Thanks
    Matt

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  2. Hello,
    Kind regards from Belgium.
    Thanks, your clear explanation helped me saved the weekend

    Peter

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  3. Can anyone confirm the value of the resistor on the Bernina E-1010 pcb? (as fitted to Bernina 1015 sewing machine)
    From the picture above it looks like 390 Ohms - but the 'cooked' one in our machine (which is unreadable) currently measures 140 Ohm - slightly suprising if 'cooking' has decreased the value. I will also be rep[lacing the capacitors - one is blown..

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    Replies
    1. Did you ever have this answered? I've got the same blown resistor!

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    2. Did you get yours fixed? I've got the same blown resistor on my wifes.

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  4. Hi, My Bernina Minimatic 807 just went pop and whisps of smoke started to come from the motor housing. The condensater is fried. I see that you say above that I can just remove it, but what wiring needs to remain? I suspect that the Min/Max switch may also be damaged so any help bypassing this would be most welcome.

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  5. I gone through your blog. Its really good.very useful information..Thanks for sharing this.
    see my products also
    Capacitor Winding Machine

    ReplyDelete
  6. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

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  7. Hello there. Thanks for a great blog! I recently had my Bernina 932 Record repaired at the Bernina service facility here in Aurora, Illinois. They replaced the interference capacitor with a brand new capacitor but now the machine will continue to run for 3-4 stitches after I completely lift off the foot pedal. Any ideas how to solve this problem? Thanks!

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  8. hey, I have a Bernina 801 with a short circuited motor capacity block. As you have suggested a way to replace this through making one up, above, would it be possible to find out this way? Can you please help as they are no longer available from the manufacturer? Thanks :)

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  9. hey, I have a Bernina 801 with a short circuited motor capacity block. As you have suggested a way to replace this through making one up, above, would it be possible to find out this way? Can you please help as they are no longer available from the manufacturer? Thanks :)

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    Replies
    1. Could you please contact me via Google Plus or at support.sewingnz.com

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  10. I have a Bernina 1015 and the hand wheel release is stuck therefore I can't stop the foot movement when winding the bobbin. I have taken off the screw on the wheel but still nothing is happening. The top of the machine doesn't come up so I can't look inside and also there is no place near there for oiling.

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  11. Hi, thanks so much for this info
    My 830 R E now goes from 0 - full speed only
    Before that it was jumpy or intermittent at low speeds
    Is there any way I can determine whether it is the motor or controller capacitor before buying a new foot pedal?

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    Replies
    1. The little capacitor in your foot control is faulty and needs to be replaced. You can get the value at this store on Ebay http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/121108290178 and this videos will help with assembly. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NvV_spPXihw Don't break the carbon pins!!

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