Ultimate Guide to Fixing Ricoma Main Axis Stop Errors: Troubleshooting & Prevention

1. Introduction

Main Axis Stop errors can stall Ricoma embroidery work at the worst possible time. Typical triggers include sensor drift, thread jams, or a needle tapping the hoop. The good news: a clear sequence—manual realignment to 100 degrees, removing obstructions, and smarter fabric handling—can get you running fast. Using maintenance-friendly tools such as magnetic embroidery hoops also helps prevent error-inducing collisions and misalignment.

2. Understanding and Resolving Main Axis Stop Errors

When your Ricoma displays a "Main Axis Stop" or "Main Axis Not at 100" message, the main axis sensor is not reading the 100-degree idle position. Causes range from light sensor drift to a thread jam or a mechanical blockage. Follow the steps below to restore normal operation.

2.1 Sensor Realignment to 100 Degrees: Step-by-Step Guide

The 100-degree position is the machine’s safe idle. If the sensor loses it, stitching pauses. Realign and verify:

1. Power off the machine to avoid accidental movement.
2. Rotate the degree wheel at the back 2–3 full turns clockwise to clear residual thread or debris.
3. Stop when the red arrow aligns precisely with the 100-degree mark.
4. If you feel resistance, do not force it—check for mechanical blockage (see 2.2).
5. Power on the machine and press the 100-degree icon to confirm alignment.
6. If the error persists, repeat or proceed to mechanical checks.

Pro Tip: On EM-1010 and MT-1501, ensure all take-up levers sit at the same height for even tension before restarting.

Sources: Ricoma support articles and video demonstrations.

2.2 Clearing Mechanical Obstructions in Rotary Hook Areas

If the degree wheel resists turning, investigate the rotary hook and bobbin area:

1. Remove the sewing arm cover by loosening the screws underneath.
2. Inspect for tangled thread, lint, or a needle jammed in the rotary hook. Clear with tweezers or a small brush.
3. Lubricate the rotary hook and nearby moving parts with machine-specific oil.
4. Reassemble, turn the degree wheel to confirm smooth motion, and test. If the rotary hook was removed, re-time the machine per Ricoma guidance.

3. Root Causes of 'Main Axis Not at 100' Errors

These errors are most often the result of sensor misalignment, thread jams, or a physical obstruction. Understanding the root cause helps you prevent repeat stops.

3.1 Needle/Hoop Collisions and Fabric Handling Solutions

What happens: A needle strike on the hoop or fabric bunching can nudge the main axis off its idle position, forcing an emergency stop.

Common triggers:

• Wrong hoop size or poor hoop placement
• Fabric slippage or bunching during embroidery
• Incorrect needle height

How to prevent it: Proper hooping and even tension are crucial. Screw-based hoops often struggle with thick or slippery materials; magnetic systems adapt to varying thicknesses and keep fabric flat and stable. For Ricoma users, mighty hoops for ricoma can help maintain consistent tension and reduce collision risks.

You can also look for accessories purpose-built for Ricoma. Using ricoma embroidery hoops that match your design and fabric helps minimize misalignment and marks.

Best practices:

• Choose a hoop size appropriate to the design and fabric
• Use firm stabilizer to prevent shifting
• With magnetic hoops, place the fabric and let the magnets clamp for even tension—no wrestling with screws

3.2 Thread Jam Prevention Strategies

What happens: Thread buildup in the rotary hook creates resistance and may block the sensor’s view, triggering axis errors.

Prevention tips:

• Bobbin maintenance: Clean the bobbin case and rotary hook with a lint brush or compressed air
• Tension: Dial in thread and bobbin tension to avoid tangling or shredding
• Materials: Use quality thread and properly wound bobbins
• Routine: Inspect and clean the rotary hook after each project

4. Preventive Maintenance for Long-Term Reliability

Preventive care is your best defense against recurring "Main Axis Stop" errors. A consistent oiling and cleaning rhythm keeps friction down and the axis aligned.

4.1 Rotary Hook Lubrication Schedule & Techniques

• Twice-daily oiling: Apply 3–4 drops of Ricoma-approved oil to the rotary hook after removing lint or stray thread
• 200,000-rotation maintenance: Clean the hook area, add a drop of oil, and run a quick sewout on scrap to absorb excess oil
• Weekly alternating lubrication: Oil the needle bar (rear holes) and the rail tracks
• Periodic greasing: Every 3–5 months, apply white lithium grease to the black metal bar, wheels, and color change cam
• Daily cleaning: Remove lint and thread fragments around the rotary hook
• Safety: Power down and follow LOTO practices before any maintenance

The Magnetic Hoop Advantage: Magnetic systems hold fabric securely and reduce lint shedding around the rotary hook during garment embroidery. If you need a compact, reliable clamp, a mighty hoop can also keep fabric stable and flat.

4.2 Optimizing Garment Embroidery Workflows with Magnetic Hoops

Speed and simplicity: sewtalent magnetic hoops can cut clamping time dramatically compared to screw hoops—turning minutes into seconds on each garment.

Consistent tension, fewer errors: Manual hoops can slip and create uneven tension, leading to hoop strikes and axis errors. The magnetic approach adapts to material thickness and keeps fabric flat, reducing misalignment and mechanical strain.

Ergonomics and cleanliness: Less fight with screws, fewer repetitive motions, and a cleaner rotary hook area thanks to reduced thread shedding.

Why choose Sewtalent: Industrial-grade durability, broad compatibility, and alignment guides support reliable garment work. Try sewtalent magnetic hoops to streamline setup and minimize preventable stops.

5. Diagnosing Main Axis vs Thread/Bobbin Issues

When an error pops up, determine whether it’s axis-related or a thread/bobbin problem to fix the right system first.

5.1 Error Message Interpretation Guide

Main axis errors: Look for the on-screen message, resistance at the degree wheel, or evidence of bird’s nesting and needle/hoop contact. Fix by manually aligning to 100 degrees, power cycling, clearing obstructions, and seeking professional recalibration if needed.

Thread/bobbin issues: Expect thread breaks, bobbin inconsistencies, and lint under the bobbin or tension discs. Fix by re-threading, adjusting bobbin tension, cleaning key areas, and replacing bent or dull needles.

Critical overlap: A stuck needle or thread mass in the rotary hook can cause both error types. Inspect this area first if symptoms are mixed.

Diagnostic workflow:

1. "Main Axis Not at 100"? Focus on alignment and sensor clearance.
2. Thread breaks without an axis error? Check threading, tension, and bobbin maintenance.
3. Inspect the rotary hook either way.

6. Advanced Troubleshooting for Persistent Errors

If errors continue after basic fixes, move on to careful mechanical adjustments.

6.1 Timing Gear Calibration Procedures

1. Preparation: Remove the needle plate and bobbin case. Rotate the main axis shaft to 195 degrees with the right-side knob. If the needle does not descend, complete a full rotation and try again.
2. Alignment: Loosen the three rotary hook set screws. Position the hook tip 0.1–0.3 mm behind the needle scarf to prevent thread breaks and needle damage.
3. Verification: Tighten the screws while holding alignment. Run a small test design to confirm clean stitches.

X/Y belt checks: Ensure moderate belt tension, confirm smooth carriage motion, adjust pulleys if needed, then run a test pattern.

Spindle maintenance: After long inactivity, oil lubrication points and gently tap the pulley to dislodge debris or corrosion, then test via the machine interface.

6.2 When to Consider Sensor Replacement

Signs of failure: Persistent "Main Axis Not at 100" after alignment and cleaning, uncorrectable sensor drift, or visible damage/debris.

What to do: Contact Ricoma customer service for professional replacement, then recalibrate to the 100-degree idle.

Prevention: Clean the sensor and rotary hook routinely, align to 100 degrees before restarting, and check belts/gears periodically.

7. Model-Specific Guidance: MT vs EM Series

Resolution steps and likelihood of mechanical adjustments differ slightly by model.

7.1 MT-1501 Series: Heavy-Duty Error Resolution

The MT-1501 is built for high-volume work with a robust 320-pound frame and a large embroidery area. Common triggers include sensor misalignment when the wheel is not parked at 100 degrees, thread nesting, hoop strikes, and improper shutdowns that leave the axis off-position.

Step-by-step:

1. Rotate the degree wheel 2–3 turns counterclockwise; resistance indicates a likely jam.
2. Power down, manually align to 100 degrees, then power up and confirm alignment.
3. Inspect the rotary hook, remove debris, and reassemble.
4. Perform timing adjustments only if the rotary hook or its screws were loosened.

For stable fabric control on this platform, properly sized ricoma hoops can lower the chance of needle strikes and sensor offsets.

7.2 EM-1010: Simplified Maintenance for Home Users

The EM-1010 is lighter and more streamlined. If you see "Main Axis Not at 100" or "No Needle":

1. Power off the machine.
2. Turn the degree wheel 2–3 times clockwise and stop at 100 degrees.
3. Align the red arrow precisely.
4. Make sure take-up levers are level.
5. Power on, initialize, and press the 100-degree icon to verify.

If resistance is present, expose the rotary hook area and remove thread jams or a stuck needle. Only re-time if you removed the rotary hook.

8. Conclusion

Fixing "Main Axis Not at 100" is as much about habits as it is about quick fixes: park at 100 degrees, keep the rotary hook clean and lubricated, and hoop fabric so it cannot slip or bunch. For garment work, adopting magnetic hoops for embroidery machines can reduce manual errors, streamline setup, and help prevent the very collisions that cause sensor misalignment.

9. FAQ

9.1 Q: How long does it usually take to resolve a "Main Axis Not at 100" error?

A: Often just minutes—manually align to 100 degrees and check for obstructions. Timing may add more time if needed.

9.2 Q: What should I do if the error keeps coming back after following all troubleshooting steps?

A: Persistent errors may indicate a deeper mechanical or sensor issue. Consult Ricoma support or an authorized technician.

9.3 Q: Are there authorized Ricoma service centers for these repairs?

A: Yes. Check Ricoma’s official website or contact customer support for locations.

9.4 Q: What maintenance tools are compatible with Ricoma machines?

A: Lint brushes, machine oil, and screwdrivers cover regular maintenance. Follow your machine’s manual for specifics.

9.5 Q: Do I need to adjust timing after every main axis error?

A: No. Timing is only necessary if you removed or loosened the rotary hook.

9.6 Q: Is there a difference in error handling between the MT-1501 and EM-1010?

A: Yes. The MT-1501 may require more mechanical checks and timing; the EM-1010 is typically simpler to troubleshoot.

9.7 Q: What’s the best way to prevent main axis errors long-term?

A: Practice preventive maintenance: clean and oil routinely, hoop correctly, and align to 100 degrees before power cycling.