Machine Oiling & Maintenance

October 03, 2026

The vast majority of tufting machine problems — motor slowdowns, high-pitched sounds, jerky motion, and skipped stitches — stem from insufficient lubrication. Regular oiling is the single most important thing you can do for your machine.

What Oil to Use

• Sewing machine oil — best option
• 3-in-1 multipurpose oil — good substitute
• Any light lubricating oil
• Never use WD-40 or heavy grease

When to Oil

• Before each use — every single session
• During extended all-day sessions: re-oil every 2 hours
• After oiling, manually rotate the white gear by hand a few times to distribute the oil

Low-Pile Machines (AK-I, AK-II, All DUOs, KRD-I)

As a general rule, apply oil to every part of your machine that moves. Focus on:

• Metal bar in front of the white square bearings (top and bottom)
• Metal bar behind the white square bearings (top and bottom)
• All visible moving metal-on-metal contact points
• Needle bar and any areas showing friction or wear

You can't over-oil — don't be shy with it.

High-Pile Machine (AK-III)

High-pile machines run at higher speeds than low-pile machines and need to be oiled more frequently — ideally before every use. Apply oil to:

• All metal bars in front of and behind the white square bearings
• The blade assembly (additional oil point unique to the AK-III)

Do not skip oiling even for short sessions.

Other Maintenance Habits

• Clean the scissor channel regularly with a small brush or compressed air to remove fiber buildup
• Inspect the needle periodically for bending or dull tips — a damaged needle punches less cleanly and can damage cloth
• Check all screws and bolts occasionally — vibration from tufting can work them loose over time
• Tighten the 4 nuts securing the white plastic covers if they rattle
• Store your machine in a dust-free area when not in use

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