DA-9280

English
THREE NEEDLE (TWIN NEEDLE) FEED OFF THE ARM
DOUBLE CHAIN STITCHER
DA-9280
Thank you very much for buying a BROTHER sewing machine. Before using your new machine, please read the safety
instructions below and the explanations given in the instruction manual.

With industrial sewing machines, it is normal to carry out work while positioned directly in front of moving parts such as the
needle and thread take-up lever, and consequently there is always a danger of injury that can be caused by these parts.
Follow the instructions from training personnel and instructors regarding safe and correct operation before operating the
machine so that you will know how to use it correctly.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1. Safety indications and their meanings 
This instruction manual and the indications and symbols that are used on the machine itself are provided in order to ensure
safe operation of this machine and to prevent accidents and injury to yourself or other people.
The meanings of these indications and symbols are given below.

Indications
The instructions which follow this term indicate situations where failure to follow the
instructions could cause injury when using the machine or physical damage to equipment
CAUTION and surroundings.

Symbols

................ This symbol (ٌ) indicates something that you should be careful of. The picture inside the triangle
indicates the nature of the caution that must be taken.
(For example, the symbol at left means “beware of injury”.)

................ This symbol ( ) indicates something that you must not do.

................ This symbol (٨) indicates something that you must do. The picture inside the circle indicates the
nature of the thing that must be done.
(For example, the symbol at left means “you must make the ground connection”.)

DA-9280 i
2. Notes on safety 
CAUTION
Environmental requirements
Use the sewing machine in an area which is free The ambient temperature should be within the range
from sources of strong electrical noise such as of 5qC to 35qC during use.
electrical line noise or static electric noise. Temperatures which are lower or higher than this
Sources of strong electrical noise may cause may cause problems with correct operation.
problems with correct operation.
The relative humidity should be within the range of
Any fluctuations in the power supply voltage should 45% to 85% during use, and no dew formation
be within r10% of the rated voltage for the machine. should occur in any devices.
Voltage fluctuations which are greater than this may Excessively dry or humid environments and dew
cause problems with correct operation. formation may cause problems with correct
operation.
The power supply capacity should be greater than
the requirements for the sewing machine's power In the event of an electrical storm, turn off the power
consumption. and disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet.
Insufficient power supply capacity may cause Lightning may cause problems with correct
problems with correct operation. operation.

Installation
Machine installation should only be carried out by a All cords should be secured at least 25 mm away
qualified technician.ᴾ from any moving parts. Furthermore, do not
excessively bend the cords or secure them too
Contact your Brother dealer or a qualified electrician firmly with staples.
for any electrical work that may need to be done. If this is not observed, fire or electric shocks may
The sewing machine weighs approximately 49 kg. result.
The installation should be carried out by two or more If using a work table which has casters, the casters
people. should be secured in such a way so that they cannot
Do not connect the power cord until installation is move.
complete, otherwise the machine may operate if the Be sure to wear protective goggles and gloves when
treadle is pressed by mistake, which could result in handling the lubricating oil, so that it does not get
injury.ᴾ into your eyes or onto your skin. If care is not taken,
Be sure to connect the ground. inflammation can result.
If the ground connection is not secure, you run a Furthermore, do not drink the lubricating oil.
high risk of receiving a serious electric shock, and Diarrhea or vomiting may result.
problems with correct operation may also occur. Keep the oil out of the reach of children.

ii DA-9280
 CAUTION
Sewing
This sewing machine should only be used by If using a work table which has casters, the casters
operators who have received the necessary training should be secured in such a way so that they cannot
in safe use beforehand. move.
The sewing machine should not be used for any Attach all safety devices before using the sewing
applications other than sewing. machine. If the machine is used without these
devices attached, injury may result.
Be sure to wear protective goggles when using the
machine. Do not touch any of the moving parts or press any
If goggles are not worn, there is the danger that if a objects against the machine while sewing, as this
needle breaks, parts of the broken needle may enter may result in personal injury or damage to the
your eyes and injury may result. machine.
Turn off the power switch at the following times. If an error occurs in machine operation, or if
However, the motor will keep turning even after the abnormal noises or smells are noticed, immediately
power is switched off as a result of the motor’s turn off the power switch. Then contact your nearest
inertia. Wait until the motor stops fully before Brother dealer or a qualified technician.
starting work.
The machine may operate if the treadle is If the machine develops a problem, contact your
depressed by mistake, which could result in injury. nearest Brother dealer or a qualified technician.

x When threading the needle

x When replacing the needle
x When not using the machine and when leaving
the machine unattended

Cleaning
Turn off the power switch before carrying out Be sure to wear protective goggles and gloves when
cleaning. handling the lubricating oil, so that it does not get
However, the motor will keep turning even after the into your eyes or onto your skin. If care is not taken,
power is switched off as a result of the motor’s inflammation can result.
inertia. Wait until the motor stops fully before Furthermore, do not drink the lubricating oil.
starting work. Diarrhea or vomiting may result.
The machine may operate if the treadle is Keep the oil out of the reach of children.
depressed by mistake, which could result in injury.
Use only the proper replacement parts as specified
by Brother.

Maintenance and inspection

Maintenance and inspection of the sewing machine If the power switch needs to be left on when
should only be carried out by a qualified technician. carrying out some adjustment, be extremely careful
to observe all safety precautions.
Ask your Brother dealer or a qualified electrician to
carry out any maintenance and inspection of the Use only the proper replacement parts as specified
electrical system. by Brother.
Turn off the power switch and disconnect the power If any safety devices have been removed, be
cord from the wall outlet at the following times. absolutely sure to re-install them to their original
However, the motor will keep turning even after the positions and check that they operate correctly
power is switched off as a result of the motor’s before using the machine.
inertia. Wait until the motor stops fully before
starting work. Any problems in machine operation which result
The machine may operate if the treadle is depressed from unauthorized modifications to the machine will
by mistake, which could result in injury. not be covered by the warranty.

x When carrying out inspection, adjustment and

maintenance
x When replacing consumable parts such as the
looper

DA-9280 iii
3. Warning labels

‫ڎ‬The following warning labels appear on the sewing machine.

Please follow the instructions on the labels at all times when using the machine.
If the labels have been removed or are difficult to read, please contact your nearest Brother dealer.

Be sure to connect the ground.

1 2 If the ground connection is not secure,
you run a high risk of receiving a
serious electric shock, and problems
with correct operation may also occur.

Direction of operation
3

Safety devices:
(A) Finger guard
(B) Thread take-up cover
(C) Pulley cover, etc.

<Rear view>

1462B 1544B

iv DA-9280
 CONTENTS



1. NAMES OF MAJOR PARTS ......1 10. STANDARD ADJUSTMENTS... 18
2. MACHINE SPECIFICATIONS.....2 10-1. Needle bar height adjustment .....................18
10-2. Needle and looper timing adjustment..........19
3. OPTIONAL PARTS..................... 2
10-3. Timing of loopers running clear of needles
4. TABLE AND MOTOR ................. 3 .....................................................................20
4-1. Table processing diagram............................... 3 10-4. Needle guard adjustment ............................21
4-2. Motor ............................................................... 4 10-5. Feed dog height adjustment........................21
10-6. Tension release lever adjustment ...............22
5. INSTALLATION .......................... 5
10-7. Upper thread take-up guide
5-1. Installing the machine head ............................ 5
adjustment ...................................................22
5-2. Ground wire connections ................................ 7
10-8. Upper thread nipper adjustment..................22
5-3. Installing the pulley cover................................ 7
10-9. Tension release shaft adjustment ...............23
5-4. BeIt tension adjustment .................................. 8
10-10. Lower thread take-up timing adjustment ...23
5-5. Assembling the cotton stand........................... 8
10-11. Installing the lapper ...................................23
5-6. Lubrication....................................................... 9
10-12. Puller height adjustment
5-7. Checking the machine pulley
(Machines with puller) ................................24
rotating direction ........................................... 10
10-13. Puller timing adjustment
6. PREPARATION BEFORE (Machines with puller) ................................24
SEWING.................................... 11
11. INSTALLING OPTIONAL
6-1. Needles and threads..................................... 11
6-2. Installing the needles .................................... 11
PARTS....................................... 25
6-3. Threading the lower threads ......................... 12 12. TROUBLESHOOTING .............. 27
6-4. Threading the upper threads......................... 12

7. SEWING.................................... 13
7-1. Sewing .......................................................... 13

8. THREAD TENSION..................... 14
8-1. Adjusting the thread tension ......................... 14
8-2. Presser foot pressure adjustment ................. 14
8-3. Adjusting the stitch length ............................. 15
8-4. Puller feed adjustment
(Machines with puller) ................................... 15

9. CLEANING .................................. 17
9-1. Daily cleaning................................................ 17
9-2. Changing the lubricating oil
(every three months)..................................... 17

DA-9280
1.㩷NAMES OF MAJOR PARTS㩷

1. NAMES OF MAJOR PARTS

1463B

(1) Machine pulley (4) Needle bar

(2) Front cover (5) Upper thread nipper
(3) Presser foot (6) Lapper

Safety devices
(7) Thread take-up cover
(8) Finger guard
(9) Pulley cover

1 DA-9280
 2. MACHINE SPECIFICATIONS
3. OPTIONAL PARTS

2. MACHINE SPECIFICATIONS

Specifications



1464B When sewing at a speed of 4,000 rpm, the needle thread cooler
(available as an option) should be used.

Specifications DA-9280-5 DA-9280-7 DA-9280-C DA-9280-D

Extra heavy materials Heavy materials, Extra heavy materials
Use Heavy materials
(denim) with puller (denim), with puller
Max. sewing speed 4,000 rpm㧔Normally 3,600 rpm㧕 3,600 rpm
No. of needles 2 3 2 3 3 2 3
SCHMETZ Nm130 SCHMETZ Nm 140 SCHMETZ Nm130 SCHMETZ Nm 140
Needle TV X 5
(Organ Needle #21) (Organ Needle #22) (Organ Needle #21) (Organ Needle #22)
5.6(7/32)
6.4(1/4) 6.4(1/4)
6.4(1/4)
Needle gauge (mm) 4.8(3/16) 6.4(1/4) 8.0(5/16) 6.4(1/4) 6.4(1/4) 8.0(5/16)
8.0(5/16)
9.6(3/8) 9.6(3/8)
9.6(3/8)
Max. stitch length 4.2 mm
Min. arm size 171 mm

3. OPTIONAL PARTS
If the upper thread breaks due to heat, the needle thread
cooler device (available as an option) should be used.
(Refer to “11. INSTALLING OPTIONAL PARTS”.)

1465B

DA-9280 2
4.㩷㪫㪘㪙㪣㪜㩷㪘㪥㪛㩷㪤㪦㪫㪦㪩㩷

4. TABLE AND MOTOR

4-1. Table processing diagram
࡮The top of the table should be 40 mm in thickness and should be strong enough to hold the weight and withstand the vibration of
the sewing machine.
࡮ Drill holes as indicated in the illustration below.

A: Chain hole
B: Motor mounting holes (3 places)
C: Cotton stand hole
D: Ground hole
1655B

3 DA-9280
 4.㩷㪫㪘㪙㪣㪜㩷㪘㪥㪛㩷㪤㪦㪫㪦㪩㩷

4-2. Motor

CAUTION
All cords should be secured at least 25 mm away from any moving parts. Furthermore, do not excessively bend the cords
or secure them too firmly with staples.
If this is not observed, fire or electric shocks may result.

Install the correct belt cover which corresponds to the motor being used.

<Motor>
࡮ Select the correct motor from those listed in the table below.
࡮ Refer to the instruction manual for the motor for details on installing and using the motor.

Power Motor
Single-phase 2-pole, 400 W motor
Three-phase 2-pole, 400 W motor

<Motor pulley and V-belt>

For details on the relationship between the motor pulleys and belts, refer to the table below.
* The belt should be an M-type V-belt.

Pulley O.D. 85 90 95 100 105 110 115 120 125 130

M45
M46
Belt size
M47

50Hz 3100 3600 4000

Sewing speed (rpm)
60Hz 3100 3600 4000

DA-9280 4
5. INSTALLATION

5. INSTALLATION
CAUTION
Machine installation should only be carried out by a Do not connect the power cord until installation is
qualified technician. complete, otherwise the machine may operate if the
treadle is depressed by mistake, which could result in
Contact your Brother dealer or a qualified electrician for injury.
any electrical work that may need to be done.
Be sure to connect the ground.
The sewing machine weighs approximately 49 kg. The If the ground connection is not secure, you run a high risk
installation should be carried out by two or more people. of receiving a serious electric shock, and problems with
correct operation may also occur.

Install the pulley cover to the machine head.

<Cautions regarding table and legs>

When installing the legs to the table, adjust the heights of the legs so that the machine head can be set up horizontally.
If the machine head is not horizontal, it will adversely affect the lubrication of the needle bar mechanism, and seizing or
abnormal wear may occur.

5-1. Installing the machine head

1. Install the pulley cover base (2) on the machine bed (1) with
the two hexagonal bolts (3) and two washers (4).
2. Insert the two bar cushions (5) into the holes in the bottom of
the bed.

<Bottom view>
1467B

* When installing the pulley cover base (2), slide the two
hexagonal bolts (3) as far as possible into the slots in the
pulley cover base (2) and tighten them.
Furthermore, check that the pulley cover base (2) is parallel
Parallel to the bed.
(If it is not parallel, the pulley cover may touch the machine
pulley.)

1468B

5 DA-9280
 5. INSTALLATION

3. Place the machine head on the table, adjust its position in

forward and backward directions by aligning it with the hole
for the presser foot lifter chain (6), and in sidewise directions
by aligning it with the belt hole (7).

1469B

4. Install the two mounting plates (8) to the machine bed (1)
and the pulley cover base (2) with the two set screws (9).
5. Secure the two collars (10), the four rubber cushions (11)
and the two washers (12) to the table with the two screws
(13) as shown in the illustration.

1470B

6. Connect the presser foot lifter chain (6) to the knee lifter
lever (14) and the foot lifter pedal (15).

1471B

DA-9280 6
5. INSTALLATION

5-2. Ground wire connections

Connect the ground wire to the sewing machine head and
motor.
* Use the correct type of ground wire and washer.

1. Remove the screw (1).

2. Secure the ground wire (2) to the sewing machine head with
the screw (1) and washer (3).
(The attachment location is indicated by the ground symbol
[A].)
3. Pass the ground wire (2) through the hole in the table.
To motor 4. Connect the ground wire (2) to the motor in accordance with
the instructions in the instruction manual for the motor.
1472B

5-3. Installing the pulley cover

1. Place the belt (2) onto the machine pulley (1).
* Pull the belt (2) upward when installing the pulley cover A
(3).

1473B

2. Place the pulley cover A (3) so that it is in between the eight

pulley cover sheets (4), and then secure it to the pulley
cover base with the four screws (5).

1474B

3. Push the belt (2) downward, and then install the pulley cover
B (6) to the pulley cover A (3) with the three screws (7).

1475B

7 DA-9280
 5. INSTALLATION

4. If the machine is being used with the puller attached, install

the puller belt cover (8) with the two screws (9).

1476B

5-4. Belt tension adjustment

1. Place the V-belt (3) onto the machine pulley (1) and the
motor pulley (2).
2. Turn the nuts (4) to adjust so that there is 20 – 30 mm of
deflection in the V-belt (3) when it is pressed at the midway
point with a force of 9.8 N.

1477B

5-5. Assembling the cotton stand

1. Assemble the cotton stand while referring to the instruction
manual for the cotton stand.
2. Install the cotton stand to the table with the nut (1).

1478B

DA-9280 8
5. INSTALLATION

5-6. Lubrication

CAUTION
Be sure to wear protective goggles and gloves when handling the lubricating oil, so that it does not get into your eyes or
onto your skin. If care is not taken, inflammation can result.
Furthermore, do not drink the lubricating oil. Diarrhea or vomiting may result.
Keep the oil out of the reach of children.

㨯 The sewing machine should always be lubricated and the oil supply replenished before it is used for the first time, and also after
long periods of non-use.
㨯 Use only the lubricating oil (NIPPON OIL CORPORATION Sewing Lube 15N; VG15) specified by Brother.
* If this type of lubricating oil is difficult to obtain, the recommended oil to use is Exxon Mobil Essotex SM15, VG15.

1. Open the front cover (1), remove the rubber cap (2), and
then fill with oil until the oil level reaches the point in between
the upper reference line [A] and the lower reference line [B]
on the oil gauge (3).
* If the oil level drops to the lower reference line [B], be sure
to add more oil.
2. Insert the rubber cap (2) and then close the front cover (1).

* Periodically loosen the oil drain screw (4) to drain out any oil
which collects in the front bed oil sump.
After draining the oil, tighten the oil drain screw (4).
* Periodically wipe away any oil which collects in the rear bed
oil sump (5) with a cloth.

1479B

3. Turn the machine pulley (6), so that the oil feeding pipe cap
(7) is facing upward, and then remove the oil feeding pipe
cap (7) and fill the oil tank (8) with oil.
* If the level of lubricating oil drops below the middle
reference line [C] on the oil tank, no oil will be drawn into
the upper shaft, and the upper shaft will thus not be
lubricated sufficiently. Be sure to maintain the lubricating
oil level at a level above the center reference line [C].
4. Attach the oil feeding pipe cap (7).

1480B

5. If the machine is being used with the puller attached, remove

the screw (9) and fill with oil until the level reaches the upper
reference line [D] in the oil sight glass.
* If the oil level drops to the lower reference line [E], be sure
to add more oil. After lubrication is completed, tighten the
screw (9).

1481B

9 DA-9280
 5. INSTALLATION

6. Remove the rubber cap (10).

7. Turn the machine pulley until the needle bar (11) is raised to
the highest position.
8. Add 2-3 drops oil to the needle bar from the hole from which
the rubber cap (10) was removed.
9. Insert the rubber cap (10).
10. Add 1-2 drops of oil to the needle bar bush lubrication hole
(12).
* Add 1-2 drops of oil to the needle bar bush lubrication hole
(12) once a week.

1482B

5-7. Checking the machine pulley rotating direction

CAUTION
Do not touch any of the moving parts or place any objects against the machine while sewing machine is operating, as this
may result in personal injury or damage to the machine.

1. Insert the power cord plug into the wall outlet, and then turn
on the power switch.
2. Depress the treadle slightly and check that the machine
pulley (1) starts to turn in the direction of the arrow [A].
* If the direction of rotation is reversed, change the
direction of rotation to the correct direction while referring
to the instruction manual for the motor.
* For the first 3 - 4 days of use, run the machine at 500
rpm lower than the usual speed. This will help contribute
to a longer service life for the machine.

1483B

DA-9280 10
6. PREPARATION BEFORE SEWING

6. PREPARATION BEFORE SEWING

6-1. Needles and threads
The needle and threads to be used vary depending on sewing conditions. Select the correct ones by referring to the table below.
Thread
Needle TV×5
Upper thread Lower thread
SCHMETZ Nm130
spun yarn #30 spun yarn #30
(Organ Needle #21)
SCHMETZ Nm140
spun yarn #20 spun yarn #30
(Organ Needle #22)

6-2. Installing the needles

 CAUTION
Turn off the power switch before installing the needle.
However, the motor will keep turning even after the power is switched off as a result of the motor’s inertia. Wait until the
motor stops fully before starting work.
The machine may operate if the treadle is depressed by mistake, which could result in injury.

1. Turn the machine pulley until needle clamp (1) is raised to

the highest position.
2. Loosen the three set screws (2), hold the three needles (3)
with their long grooved side facing front, insert them into the
needle clamp (1) all the way, and fasten the needle with the
three set screws (2).

1484B

11 DA-9280
 6. PREPARATION BEFORE SEWING㩷

6-3. Threading the lower threads

 CAUTION
Turn off the power switch before threading the lower thread.
However, the motor will keep turning even after the power is switched off as a result of the motor’s inertia. Wait until the
motor stops fully before starting work.
The machine may operate if the treadle is depressed by mistake, which could result in injury.

1485B 1486B

1487B 1488B 1489B

6-4. Threading the upper threads

 CAUTION
Turn off the power switch before threading the upper thread.
However, the motor will keep turning even after the power is switched off as a result of the motor’s inertia. Wait until the
motor stops fully before starting work.
The machine may operate if the treadle is depressed by mistake, which could result in injury.

1490B 1491B

DA-9280 12
7. SEWING

7. SEWING
CAUTION
Attach all safety devices before using the sewing machine. If the machine is used without these devices attached, injury
may result.
Turn off the power switch at the following times.
However, the motor will keep turning even after the power is switched off as a result of the motor’s inertia. Wait until the
motor stops fully before starting work.
The machine may operate if the treadle is depressed by mistake, which could result in injury.
㨯 When threading the needle
㨯 When replacing the needle
㨯 When not using the machine and when leaving the machine unattended
Do not touch any of the moving parts or place any objects against the machine while sewing, as this may result in
personal injury or damage to the machine.

7-1. Sewing
1. Turn on the power switch.
2. Depress the foot lifter pedal (1) and place the work under the
presser foot.
3. Release the foot lifter pedal (1).
4. The machine starts running when the treadle (2) is stepped
down.

1492B

5. After sewing the work, move the work to the thread trimmer
(3) to make blank stitches, and cut the thread with it.

1493B

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13
 8. THREAD TENSION

8. THREAD TENSION
8-1. Adjusting the thread tension
Upper thread

Good stitches

Lower thread
Upper thread
Lower thread

Loose, bad stitches

Appearance of seam when upper thread
tension is too weak

1494B

Becomes 1. Adjust the upper thread tension properly by turning the

weaker
Becomes
tension nut (1).
stronger 2. Adjust the lower thread tension properly by turning the
tension nut (2).

Becomes stronger Becomes weaker

1495B

8-2. Presser foot pressure adjustment

Adjust the presser foot pressure by turning wing nut (1) so that
Becomes Becomes
weaker stronger the pressure is just enough to feed the work positively and keep
the work from slipping.
* If the machine is being used with the puller attached,
Becomes depending on works, the puller pressure can be adjusted as
Becomes
weaker
stronger appropriate to the work by turning the presser adjust screw
(2).

1496B

DA-9280 14
8. THREAD TENSION㩷

8-3. Adjusting the stitch length

CAUTION
Turn off the power switch before adjusting the stitch length.
However, the motor will keep turning even after the power is switched off as a result of the motor’s inertia. Wait until the
motor stops fully before starting work.
The machine may operate if the treadle is depressed by mistake, which could result in injury.

The numerals on the machine pulley scale represent the stitch

length (mm), however the actual stitch length will vary
depending on the type and thickness of material being used.

1. Open the front cover (1).

2. While pressing the feed adjustment button (2), turn the
machine pulley (3) toward you slowly.
* The feed adjustment button (2) will move further inward.
3. While still pressing the feed adjustment button (2), keep
turning the machine pulley (3) until the desired numeral
appears in the center of the pulley cover windows (4).
* The higher the value of the numeral, the larger the stitch
length becomes.
4. Release the feed adjustment button (2).
* Check that the feed adjustment button (2) pops back out
again.
5. Adjust the needle guard. (Refer to “10-4. Needle guard
adjustment”.)
6. Close the front cover (1).

NOTE:
࡮ Do not press the feed adjustment button (2) while the
machine is operating, as doing so may damage the machine
parts.
࡮ Be sure to adjust the needle guard after changing the stitch
length. If you use the sewing machine without adjusting the
1497B needle guard, skipped stitches may occur or the looper tip
may become broken.

8-4. Puller feed adjustment (Machines with puller)

1. With the feed adjusting button (1) lightly pressed with your
finger, turn the machine pulley toward yourself until the feed
adjusting button (1) goes in one step deeper.
2. Keep pressing the feed adjusting button (1), and turn the
machine pulley to set your desired feed position on the scale
to the reference line [A].
* The more you turn the machine pulley toward yourself,
Smaller the smaller the feed will be.
* Adjust the puller feed after seeing the finished stitches of
the work (Refer to the next page).

Larger

1498B

DA-9280
15
 8. THREAD TENSION

The table below shows samples of stitches made with a highly elastic fabric and a fabric which is not so elastic.
Adjust the puller feed by referring to this table.
Puller feed Fabric with high elasticity Fabric with low elasticity
1499B 1500B

Correct

Feed direction Feed direction

Neither non-alignment nor sewing wrinkles. Neither non-alignment nor sewing wrinkles.
1501B 1502B

Insufficient

Non-aligned, and wrinkled. Non-aligned, and wrinkled.

1503B 1504B

Excessive

Non-aligned, and very wavy. Non-aligned, and very wavy.

DA-9280 16
9. CLEANING

9. CLEANING
The following cleaning operations should be carried out each day in order to maintain the performance of this machine and to
ensure a long service life. Furthermore, if the sewing machine has not been used for a long period of time, carry out the following
cleaning procedures before using it again.

CAUTION
Turn off the power switch before carrying out cleaning.
The motor will keep turning even after the power is switched off as a result of the motor’s inertia. Wait until the motor stops
fully before starting work.
The machine may operate if the treadle is depressed by mistake, which could result in injury.
Be sure to wear protective goggles and gloves when handling the lubricating oil, so that it does not get into your eyes or
onto your skin. If care is not taken, inflammation can result.
Furthermore, do not drink the lubricating oil. Diarrhea or vomiting may result.
Keep the oil out of the reach of children.

9-1. Daily cleaning

Cleaning the machine
1. Open the looper cover (1) and clean away any thread scraps
and other rubbish.
2. After cleaning, close the looper cover (1).

Lubrication
Refer to “5-6. Lubrication”.

Checking
1. Check that the threads are threaded correctly.
(Refer to “6-3. Threading the lower threads”, and “6-4.
Threading the upper threads”.)
2. If the tips of the needles are broken, replace the broken
needles.
1505B 3. Carry out a trial sewing.

9-2. Changing the lubricating oil (every three months)

The lubricating oil should be changed at least once every three
1506B
months.
1. Remove the eleven screws (1), and then open the forward
feed arm cover (2).
2. Draw up all of the lubricating oil inside the machine into the
oil bottle (3).
3. Fill the machine with oil until the oil level reaches the point in
between the upper and lower reference lines on the oil
gauge. (Refer to “5-6. Lubrication”.)
4. Close the forward feed arm cover (2) and secure it with the
eleven screws (1).

[Machines with puller]

1. Remove the eight screws (4), and then open the puller top
cover (5).
2. Draw up all of the lubricating oil inside the machine into the
oil bottle (3).
3. Fill the machine with oil until oil level reaches the upper
reference line [A] in the oil sight glass (6). (Refer to “5-6.
Lubrication”.)
4. Close the puller top cover (5) and secure it with the eight
1507B screws (4).

DA-9280
17
 10. STANDARD ADJUSTMENTS

10. STANDARD ADJUSTMENTS

CAUTION
Maintenance and inspection of the sewing machine should only be carried out by qualified personnel.

Ask your Brother dealer or a qualified electrician to carry out any maintenance and inspection of the electrical system.

Turn off the power switch and disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet at the following times.
However, the motor will keep turning even after the power is switched off as a result of the motor’s inertia. Wait until the
motor stops fully before starting work.
The machine may operate if the treadle is depressed by mistake, which could result in injury.
x When carrying out inspection, adjustment and maintenance
x When replacing consumable parts such as the looper

If any safety devices have been removed, be absolutely sure to re-install them to their original positions and check that
they operate correctly before using the machine.

10-1. Needle bar height adjustment

Adjust the heights of the needles (1).
1508B
At this time, adjust so that each needle (1) is in the center of the
needle hole (3) in the needle plate (2).

1. Remove the screw (4), and then remove the presser foot (5).
2. Turn the machine pulley to drop the needle bar to its lowest
position.
3. Remove the rubber cap (6).
4. Loosen the screw (8) and adjust so that the distance
between the bottom of the needle clamp (7) and the top of
the needle plate (2) is 14.5 mm.
* Check that the distance between the points of the
needles and the top of the needle plate (2) is 13.8 mm
when the needle clamp (7) is raised to its highest
position.
5. Remove the three screws (9), and then remove the needle
plate (2).
6. Turn the machine pulley so that the needles (1) and the
needle guard (10) are aligned, and then adjust the tilt of the
needle clamp (7) so that there is no space between the left
and right needles (1) and the needle guard (10) at this time.
7. Install the needle plate (2) with the three screws (9), and
after checking that the needles (1) are in the centers of the
1510B 1509B
needle holes (3), tighten the screw (8).
8. Insert the rubber cap (6).
9. Install the presser foot (5) with the screw (4).

1511B 1512B

DA-9280
18
10. STANDARD ADJUSTMENTS㩷

10-2. Needle and looper timing adjustment

Adjust so that the height of the needle is 0.2 - 0.8 mm lower
1513B when the looper (1) tip is aligned with the needle (2) center while
the looper is moving backward than when the looper (1) tip is
aligned with the needle (2) center while the looper is moving
forward.
1. Remove the presser foot, needle plate and feed dogs. (Refer
to “10-1. Needle bar height adjustment”.)
2. Remove the two screws (3), and then open the belt cover
plate (4).
3. Turn the machine pulley (5) toward yourself until loopers (1)
reach the end of their backward travel.
4. Loosen the screw (6) and move the looper holder (7) in the
arrow direction until the distance between the needle (2)
center and the looper (1) tip is 2.7 - 2.9 mm, and retighten
the screw (6) securely.
5. Turn the machine pulley (5) toward you by hand until the
looper (1) tip is aligned with the needle (2) center while the
looper is moving forward.
6. Loosen cap screw (8), and then loosen two set screws (10)
on lower belt wheel (9).
7. While holding the looper (1) so that the tip of the looper (1)
does not move from the center of the needle (2), turn the
machine pulley (5) toward you by hand to move the needle
(2) up or down until the distance between the tip of the
looper (1) to the top of the needle hole (A) is approximately
2.9 mm.
8. Tighten the two set screws (10) securely, and then tighten
the cap screw (8).
9. Check that the needle height is 0.2 - 0.8 mm lower when the
looper (1) tip is aligned with the needle (2) center when the
looper (2) starts moving backward and moves to the right, in
comparison to the when the looper (1) tip is aligned with the
1514B 1515B needle (2) center when the looper (2) starts moving forward
and moves to the left.
* If the adjustment is not correct, repeat the adjustment
procedure from step 4, or check the needle height.
(Refer to “10-1. Needle bar height adjustment”.)
10. Close the belt cover plate (4), and then tighten the two
screws (3).
11. Install the presser foot, needle plate and feed dogs.

<Looper forward travel> <Looper backward travel>

1516B

19 DA-9280
 10. STANDARD ADJUSTMENTS

10-3. Timing of loopers running clear of needles

The loopers (1) run in back of the needles (2) in their forward
1517B travel and in front of the needles (2) in their backward travel.
At this time, adjust so that the needles (2) are pushed by 0.1 -
0.2 mm when the loopers (1) move forward.

1. Remove forward feed arm cover (3).

2. Adjust so that the set screw at the rear of the looper
oscillating cam relative to the turning direction is positioned
forward of the adjustment hole (5) in the looper connecting
rod and is no longer visible in the hole when the set screw at
the rear relative to the forward/back cam turning direction is
aligned with the adjustment hole (4) in the cam sleeve.
* To adjust, loosen the set screw which is at the front
relative to the forward/back cam turning direction, and
Turning direction
then loosen the set screw at the rear just enough so that
the forward/back cam can be adjusted.
Set screw at the rear
3. After adjusting, tighten the two set screws.
Set screw at the front

1519B

1520B

4. Loosen the set screw (7) of the needle guard (6), and then
move the needle guard (6) to a position where it does not
touch the needle (2).

1521B

5. Loosen the screw (8) and move the looper holder (9) in the
direction of the arrow to adjust so that the looper (1) pushes
the needle (2) by 0.1 - 0.2 mm when the looper (1) tip is
aligned with the needle (2) center.
NOTE:
At this time, do not move the looper holder (9) in any
direction except the direction indicated by the arrow. If it
is moved in another direction, carry out the adjustments
given in “10-2. Needle and looper timing adjustment”.
1522B

6. Carry out the adjustment given in “10-4. Needle guard

adjustment”.
7. Install the forward feed arm cover (3).
Push 0.1 - 0.2 mm

1523B

DA-9280
20
10. STANDARD ADJUSTMENTS㩷

10-4. Needle guard adjustment

Adjust so that the needle (2) is pushed by the needle guard (3)
1524B
and the clearance between the needle (2) and the looper (1) tip
is 0 - 0.05 mm when the actual stitch length has been set and
the looper (1) moves forward and meets the needle (2).
1. Set the actual stitch length. (Refer to “8-3. Adjusting the stitch
length”.)
2. Turn the machine pulley toward you by hand until the looper
(1) tip is aligned with the needle (2) center while the looper is
moving forward.
3. Loosen the set screw (4), and then move the needle guard
(3) up or down to adjust so that the distance between the
ridge line [A] of the needle guard (3) tip and the needle (2) tip
is 1 mm.
4. Tighten the set screw (4).
5. Loosen the set screw (5) and then move the needle guard
(3) to the left or right to adjust so that the needle (2) is
pushed by the needle guard (3) and the clearance between
the needle (2) and the looper (1) tip is 0 - 0.05 mm.
6. Tighten the set screw (5).

NOTE:
Be sure to adjust the needle guard (3) after changing the
stitch length. If you use the sewing machine without
1525B adjusting the needle guard (3), skipped stitches may occur
or the looper tip may become broken.

10-5. Feed dog height adjustment

Make an adjustment so that the highest part of the feed dog (1)
will be 1.2 mm above the top surface of the needle plate (2)
when the feed dog (1) is at the highest position.

Adjust the height of the feed dog (1) by turning the feed bar
eccentric shaft (3).
㊎᧼

1526B

Installing the Spacer (For the denim specifications)

If stitch irregularities develop in sewing very heavy materials,
adjust the sub-feed dog to the correct height by installing the
spacer (1).
1. Remove the two screws (3) and then remove the sub-feed
dog (2).
2. Place the spacer (1) under the sub-feed dog (2) and
retighten the two screws (3).
* The spacer (1) is in the parts box.

1527B

21 DA-9280
 10. STANDARD ADJUSTMENTS

10-6. Tension release lever adjustment

Adjust so that the center of the tension release lever (1) thread
1528B
hole is 7 - 9 mm above the center of the thread hole in the upper
thread tension bracket (2) when the needle bar is at its lowest
position.
1. Turn the machine pulley until the needle bar is down at the
lowest position.
2. Loosen the screw (3) and then move the tension release
lever (1) up or down to adjust so that the center of the
tension release lever (1) thread hole is 7 - 9 mm above the
center of the thread hole in the upper thread tension bracket
(2).
3. Retighten the screw (3).
* The higher the tension release lever (1), the tighter will
be the stitches.

1529B

10-7. Upper thread take-up guide adjustment

Adjust the distance between the center of the upper thread
take-up hole (1) and the top of the upper thread take-up guide
(2) will be 6 - 7 mm.

1. Turn the machine pulley toward yourself until the needle bar
is down at the lowest position.
2. Loosen the screw (3), and then move the upper thread
take-up guide (2) up or down to adjust so that the distance
from the top of the upper thread take-up guide (2) to the
center of the upper thread take-up hole (1) is 6 - 7 mm.
* The higher the upper thread take-up guide (2) positions,
the greater the upper thread loops will be.
3. Tighten the screw (3).
1530B

10-8. Upper thread nipper adjustment

Adjust so that the maximum clearance between the upper
0.5 - 0.7mm (for two needles) thread tension bracket (1) and the lower thread tension plate (2)
0.8 - 1.0mm (for three needles) is 0.5 - 0.7 mm (for two needles) or 0.8 - 1.0 mm (for three
needles).

Loosen the set screw (3), and then move the upper thread
tension bracket (1) in or out to adjust so that the maximum
clearance between the upper thread tension bracket (1) and the
lower thread tension plate (2) is 0.5 - 0.7 mm (for two needles)
Upper thread or 0.8 - 1.0 mm (for three needles).
cam
* The thread tension will become better if the clearance
between the upper thread tension bracket (1) and the lower
1531B
thread tension plate (2) is reduced.

DA-9280
22
10. STANDARD ADJUSTMENTS㩷

10-9. Tension release shaft adjustment

Adjust the tension release shaft so that the tension discs loosen
when the presser foot is raised and tighten when the presser
foot is lowered.
1. Loosen set screw (1).
2. Make an adjustment by turning the tension release shaft (2)
so that the tension discs begin to loosen when the presser
foot rises 4 mm above the top of the needle plate.
3. After the adjustment, retighten the set screw (1) securely.

1532B

10-10. Lower thread take-up timing adjustment

Adjust so that the lower thread take-up (1) touches the thread
(2) and is raised 5 mm above the lower thread take-up base (3)
when the looper starts moving backward.
1. Insert the screwdriver through the adjusting hole [A] in the
lower thread take-up base (3), and loosen the two set
screws (4).
2. Raise the lower thread take-up (1) until it is 5 mm up from
the thread take-up base (3).
3. After the adjustment, retighten the two set screws (4)
securely.

1533B

10-11. Installing the lapper

Insert the lapper guide plate from the front into the oval slot in
the forward feed arm cover, making sure that the end of the
lapper is clear of the presser foot.

Lapper adjustment
Adjust felling distance of point [A] by loosing the screw (1). After
the adjustment, retighten the screw (1).
Adjust felling distance of point [B] by losing the two screws (2).
After the adjustment, retighten the two screws (2).

1534B 1518B

23 DA-9280
 10. STANDARD ADJUSTMENTS

10-12. Puller height adjustment (Machines with puller)

Adjust the height of the puller (1) so that it is 0.1 to 0.2 mm high
from the top of the needle plate (2).

Loosen the screw (3), and move the puller support (4) up or
down until the puller (1) is 0.1 to 0.2 mm above the top of the
needle plate (2).
After the adjustment, retighten the screw (3).

1535B

10-13. Puller timing adjustment (Machines with puller)

Make an adjustment so that, when the needle bar is down at the
lowest position, the mark [A] on the timing collar (1) is in line with
the reference line [B].
1. Turn the machine pulley toward yourself until the mark [A] on
the timing collar (1) meets the reference line [B].
2. Loosen the two set screws (2), and turn the machine pulley
toward yourself until the needle bar is lowered all the way
down.
3. Retighten the two set screws (2).

1536B

DA-9280
24
11. INSTALLING OPTIONAL PARTS

11. INSTALLING OPTIONAL PARTS

CAUTION
Installation of optional parts should only be carried out by a qualified technician.

Turn off the power switch and disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet before installing optional parts.
The motor will keep turning even after the power is switched off as a result of the motor’s inertia. Wait until the motor stops
fully before starting work.
The machine may operate if the treadle is depressed by mistake, which could result in injury.

The parts shown in the illustration below are necessary when installing the needle thread cooler.
Needle thread cooler
NAME OF PARTS Q’TY CODE
(1) Thread cooler tank assembly 1 S58045㧙001
(2) Taptite, Cup B M3˜12 2 087311㧙216
(3) Felt 1 S08761㧙100
(4) Thread guide 1 S58047㧙001
(5) Screw, Pan SM 4.37-40˜7 2 062680㧙712
(6) Silicone oil 1 S06704㧙001

1. Install the thread cooler tank assembly (1) to the thread

guide (4) with the two screws (2).
2. Insert the felt (3) into the thread cooler tank assembly (1).

1537B

3. Install the thread cooler tank assembly (1) to the part [A] of
the arm with the two screws (5).

1538B

25 DA-9280
 11. INSTALLING OPTIONAL PARTS㩷

4. Fill the thread cooler tank assembly (1) with the silicone oil
(6).

1539B

5. Pass the thread through the thread guide (4).

1540B

DA-9280 26
12. TROUBLESHOOTING

12. TROUBLESHOOTING
x If there is a problem with operation, first check that the threads are correctly threaded and that the needle is correctly installed.
x Please check the following points before calling for repairs or service.
x If the following remedies do not fix the problem, turn off the power switch and consult a qualified technician or the place of
purchase.

CAUTION
Turn off the power switch and disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet before carrying out troubleshooting.
The motor will keep turning even after the power is switched off as a result of the motor’s inertia. Wait until the motor stops
fully before starting work.
The machine may operate if the treadle is depressed by mistake, which could result in injury.

Problem Cause Remedy Page

1. Upper thread is not The upper thread tension is too weak. Adjust the upper thread tension. 14
tight.

The lower thread tension is too strong. Adjust the lower thread tension. 14

The position of the upper thread take-up Adjust the upper thread take-up guide
guide is incorrect. position correctly.
22
Adjust the lower thread tension plate
The lower thread tension plate clearance
of the upper thread nipper is incorrect.
clearance of the upper thread nipper 22
correctly.
The tension release lever position is Adjust the tension release lever position
incorrect. correctly.!
22

2. Skipped stitches occur The needle is not properly installed.! Install the needle correctly. 11
while sewing

The looper points are dull. Replace the loopers with good ones. 19

Adjust the needle and looper timing

The needle and looper timing is incorrect.
correctly.
19

The clearance between the needles and Adjust the clearance between the needles
loopers are incorrect. and loopers correctly.
20

The lower thread take-up timing is Adjust the lower thread take-up timing
incorrect.! correctly.!
23
1541B

3. Seam position is The puller timing is incorrect.! Adjust the puller timing.! 24
incorrect.
(Machines with puller)
The puller feed is incorrect. Adjust the puller feed. 15

The presser foot pressure is incorrect. Adjust the presser foot pressure. 14

The feed dog height is incorrect. Adjust the feed dog height. 21

4. Seam position is The sub-feed dog height is incorrect.! Adjust the sub-feed dog height. 21
incorrect.

The presser foot pressure is incorrect. Adjust the presser foot pressure. 14

The feed dog height is incorrect. Adjust the feed dog height. 21

27 DA-9280
 12. TROUBLESHOOTING

Problem Cause Remedy Page

5. Machine does not feed The feed dog is too low. Adjust the feed dog height. 21
work.

The presser foot pressure is too small. Adjust the presser foot pressure. 14

The feed dog is worn out. Have serviceman check it. 㧙

The presser foot floats and does not fully

press work.
Have serviceman check it. 㧙

The feed dog and presser foot work on

one side only.
Have serviceman check it. 㧙

6. Upper and lower The needle is bent or the needle tip is

Replace the needle. 11
threads are breaking. broken.

The needle is not properly installed. Install the needle correctly. 11

The needle is not properly threaded.! Thread the needle correctly.! 12

The upper or lower thread tension is too Adjust the upper thread or lower thread
weak or too strong.! tension.!
14
Adjust the lower thread tension plate
The lower thread tension plate clearance
of the upper thread nipper is incorrect.!
clearance of the upper thread nipper 22
correctly.!
The needle holes are too small for
threads.! Check the needle and thread counts.! 11

Smooth the loopers with an oiled

1542B The loopers are damaged.! 19
grindstone or replace the damaged parts.!

The material is being pushed or pulled Do not push or pull the material with
7. Broken needles
with excessive force during sewing.! excessive force.
㧙

The needle is not properly installed. Install the needle correctly. 11

The needle tip is bent. Replace the needle. 11

The needle tip is broken, or the needle

Replace the needle. 11
hole is blocked.

Adjust the timing of the loopers running

Needles hit the loopers. 20
clear of the needles.
The needle holes are too small for
threads. Check the needle and thread counts. 11

CAUTION:
࡮It is extremely dangerous to leave any pieces of broken needle sticking in the material. If the
needle breaks, search for all pieces until the whole of the needle is found again.
࡮Furthermore, we recommend that thorough steps be taken to account for such needles to comply
with product liability regulations.
1543B

DA-9280 28
 ขᛒ⺑᣿ᦠ
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Г᧲▐ᇨ̰
MANUAL DE INSTRUCCIONES

http://www.brother.co.jp/

http://www.brother.com/

Printed in Japan / ᇈኈ‫ ׂڊ‬/ Impreso en Japón DA-9280

SA9518-001
2008.03. B (1)