---
title: "Tajima Embroidery Machine Troubleshooting: Error Codes, Thread Breaks and Fixes"
description: "Tajima stop codes (1B1, 211, 291, 2B7, 3A6 and more) explained in plain English, plus fixes for thread breaks, trimmer faults, frame limits and oiling."
url: https://easydigitizer.com/troubleshooter/tajima
updated: 2026-10-14
brand: Tajima
class: commercial
origin: Japan
formats: DST (native), TBF (newer panels), Barudan and ZSK code formats selectable on older panels
data: https://easydigitizer.com/troubleshooter/data.json
agent_playbook: https://easydigitizer.com/troubleshooter/agent.md
publisher: EasyDigitizer (https://easydigitizer.com/)
---

# Tajima embroidery machine troubleshooting

Tajima stop codes (1B1, 211, 291, 2B7, 3A6 and more) explained in plain English, plus fixes for thread breaks, trimmer faults, frame limits and oiling.

> **Short answer:** Most Tajima stops are cleared by reading the code: green codes (1xx) are normal stops, red 2xx codes are operator or data problems you can fix at the machine, and red 3xx codes point to cards, motors or wiring and need your distributor. The fixes that solve most problems are: rethread and set tension (Tajima's manual gives about 120 to 140 g upper and 20 to 30 g bobbin), oil the rotary hook every 5 to 6 hours of running, and clean lint out of the hook and trimmer (ATH) every day. The code you will see most is **291**, upper thread break.

## Model families
### TMEZ (TMEZ-SC single-head, TMEZ-KC multi-head)
- **Type:** Commercial single-head (SC) and multi-head (KC, 2 to 8 heads)
- **Years:** Current line
- **Field:** 450 × 360 mm or 450 × 500 mm per head on TMEZ-KC (depends on head interval)
- **Max speed:** 1,200 rpm (TMEZ-SC); cap frame up to 1,000 rpm on TMEZ-KC
- **Panel:** 12.1-inch TFT touch panel
- **Formats:** DST, TBF; LAN for DG16 by Pulse
- **Manual:** [TMEZ-SC brochure (PDF)](https://www.tajima.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/TMEZ-SC_E.pdf)
- **Tags:** i-TM, auto tension, single-head, multi-head, 9/12/15-needle
The TMEZ line uses i-TM, which sets upper thread tension electronically instead of with tension knobs, plus a panel-adjustable presser foot (DCP) and a picker-free trimmer. Fewer tension complaints than older machines, but sensor and card faults (291 with "TC sensor card", 3xx codes) need a technician. The KC version adds a safety beam that stops the machine when something crosses the work area (code 2CE).

### TMBP / TMBR (TMBP-SC, TMBR-SC, TMBP2)
- **Type:** Commercial single-head, 6, 12 or 15 needles depending on version
- **Years:** About 2016 to present (TMBP2 is the current version)
- **Field:** 14.2 × 19.7 in on TMBP2-SC (cubical frame)
- **Max speed:** Not published on the US distributor page
- **Panel:** Colour LCD with F-keys and jog dial (TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC); 12.1-inch touch screen (TMBP2)
- **Formats:** DST, TBF; USB memory, LAN
- **Manual:** [TMBR-SC / TMBP-SC user's manual (Hirsch hub)](https://docs.hic.us/service-documents/tmbp-tmbr-users-guide)
- **Tags:** single-head, cap, tubular, 15-needle, USB, LAN
The workhorse single-head in many US shops. Common stops are 291 (thread break), 225 (frame or software limit on caps), B04/BC5 (USB stick missing or full) and 3A6 (trimmer knife position). The manual lists separate oiling points for TMBR and TMBP heads, so use the right page.

### TMAR (TMAR-KC, TMAR-VC)
- **Type:** Commercial multi-head (up to 12 heads on TMAR-VC1512), 12 or 15 needles
- **Years:** Current line
- **Field:** 450 × 360 mm per head (360 mm head interval)
- **Max speed:** Not published; varies with item and frame
- **Panel:** Not specified on the distributor page
- **Formats:** DST, TBF
- **Manual:** Not public; ask Hirsch or your distributor
- **Tags:** multi-head, cap, 3D foam, tubular
Aimed at cap and specialty work with a digitally controlled presser foot. On multi-heads, a 291 on one head stops all heads; know how to switch a bad head off so the others can keep running.

### SAI
- **Type:** Compact commercial single-head, 8 needles
- **Years:** Current line
- **Field:** 300 × 200 mm flat; 300 × 75 mm cap
- **Max speed:** 800 spm
- **Panel:** Colour touch screen (about 3.5 × 6 in)
- **Formats:** DST via Tajima Writer Plus; LAN connection
- **Manual:** [SAI operation manual (Hirsch hub)](https://docs.hic.us/service-documents/sai-operation-manual)
- **Tags:** compact, 8-needle, cap, home-business
Tajima's entry machine. It runs slower than the big heads, so thread and needle issues are usually setup problems (wrong needle size, poor hooping) rather than speed.

### TMCR (TMCR-VF, i-TM version)
- **Type:** Commercial multi-head
- **Years:** Current line
- **Field:** See the TMCR-VF series brochure on the Hirsch hub
- **Max speed:** Not published
- **Panel:** Not published
- **Formats:** DST, TBF
- **Manual:** Not public; ask your distributor
- **Tags:** multi-head, i-TM
Tajima lists an i-TM (automatic tension) version of this multi-head. Its code list is not public; the 1xx/2xx/3xx scheme below is shared across current Tajima panels, but confirm unusual codes with your distributor.

### TFKN (older flat multi-head)
- **Type:** Commercial multi-head, flat bed
- **Years:** About 2009 (manual M-KN09-E)
- **Field:** Depends on head count and interval
- **Max speed:** Set in 10 rpm steps on the panel; Tajima advises running at about 70% of maximum for the first month
- **Panel:** LCD panel with select and set keys
- **Formats:** Tajima T/T2 codes, Barudan (B) and ZSK (Z) code formats; floppy drive
- **Manual:** [TFKN user's manual (PDF, dealer-hosted copy)](https://silmaq.com.br/wp-content/uploads/downloads/MANUAIS/TAJIMA/Manual%20de%20Instru%C3%A7%C3%A3o/tfkn-panel-sop-m-kn09-e-2009-11.pdf)
- **Tags:** multi-head, floppy, older, 2xx codes
A common used multi-head. Floppy-drive codes (B01 to C01) show up a lot as drives age; a floppy-to-USB emulator is the usual fix.

### TEHX-C / TFHX (older multi-head)
- **Type:** Commercial multi-head (TFHX flat, TEHX-C cylinder)
- **Years:** About 2003 to 2004 (manual M-EFHX07-E)
- **Field:** Depends on model
- **Max speed:** Model dependent
- **Panel:** LCD panel
- **Formats:** DST; Barudan and ZSK code formats; floppy and serial input
- **Manual:** [TEHX-C and TFHX user's manual (PDF, dealer-hosted copy)](https://silmaq.com.br/wp-content/uploads/downloads/MANUAIS/TAJIMA/Manual%20de%20Instru%C3%A7%C3%A3o/tehx-and-tfhx-sop-m-efhx07-e-2004-01.pdf)
- **Tags:** multi-head, cylinder, older, floppy, serial
Older machines with the same three-digit code style. The manual explains how to cut a faulty head out of control (jumper on the tension base) so the rest keep sewing when one tension base card fails.

### TMEX / TMFX / TMLX and other legacy heads
- **Type:** Commercial single and multi-head (1990s to 2000s)
- **Years:** About 1993 to 2014 (parts lists on the Hirsch hub)
- **Field:** Model dependent
- **Max speed:** Model dependent
- **Panel:** LCD panels; many still use floppy drives
- **Formats:** DST
- **Manual:** Parts lists on the [Hirsch service documents hub](https://docs.hic.us/service-documents); user manuals through your distributor
- **Tags:** legacy, floppy, used-machine
We could not verify a public error list for these families. Use the symptom guides below and the code chart in your own manual.

## Error codes
| Code | Message | Meaning | Fix | Models | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1B1 | Frame stepping code | Normal stop: the design contains a frame-step command. | Press Start or use frame back/forward to carry on. Nothing is broken. | TMBR, TMBP, TFKN, TEHX | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 1B2 | Color change code | Normal stop at a programmed color change or stop code. | Press Start. If you did not want the pause, check the needle sequence and stop settings. | TMBR, TMBP, TFKN, TEHX | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 1B3 | End code | Normal stop at the end code (end of design). | Unhoop and load the next item. | TMBR, TMBP, TFKN, TEHX | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 1B4 | Thread trimming code | Normal stop after a trim code in the design. | Press Start to continue. | TMBR, TMBP, TFKN, TEHX | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 1B6 | Offset code | Normal stop on an automatic offset code at a color change. | Press Start to continue. | TMBR, TMBP, TFKN, TEHX | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 1B8 | Temporary stop code | Normal stop on a temporary stop in the design. | Press Start to continue. | TMBR, TMBP | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 1C1 | Stop switch | The bar switch or stop switch was pressed while sewing, frame stepping or tracing. | Press Start to resume. Do not switch the power off while 1C1 is showing or you may lose your place in the design. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 1C2 | Manual ATH / needle bar | Stop after a manual trim or needle bar operation. | Press Start or frame back/forward to continue. | TFKN | TFKN manual |
| 1D1 | All-head start | Multi-head paused where all heads resume after a frame back. | Press Start to continue sewing. | TMBR, TFKN, multi-heads | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 1D2 | Preset halt | A preset stop count was reached. | Press E to clear. Change the preset halt setting if the stop is not wanted. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| OIL | Preset halt (lubrication) | Oiling reminder based on run time. | Oil the points shown in the manual, then press E. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 211 | Main shaft fixed position | The main shaft stopped away from its home (fixed) position, or the home signal was lost. | Turn the main shaft back to its stop position and restart. If it keeps happening, the home sensor, encoder or belt needs checking by a technician. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 212 | Needle bar lowered | Something was moved while the needle bar was down (zigzag cording device on newer machines). | Raise the needle bar to the top first, then retry. | TMBR, TFKN | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 221 | Frame limit left | The frame hit its travel limit moving left (-X). | Move the frame back by hand or with the jog keys so the design fits, then check design size and position. | Models with frame limit switches | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 222 | Frame limit right | The frame hit its travel limit moving right. | Same as 221: bring the frame back inside the field and re-center the design. | Models with frame limit switches | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 223 | Frame limit front | The frame hit its travel limit toward the front (+Y). | Same as 221. | Models with frame limit switches | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 224 | Frame limit rear | The frame hit its travel limit toward the rear. | Same as 221. | Models with frame limit switches | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 225 | Embroidery space exceeded | During trace or sewing the frame reached the hard limit or the software frame limit. | Press E, check the current frame position, re-center or shrink the design, or widen the software frame limit only if the frame really allows it. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 228 | Table up/down with frame forward | The table was raised or lowered while the frame sat at the front. | Move the frame to the rearmost position, then move the table. | Cylinder and multi-head models | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 229 | Stopped during power resume | The machine stopped while running Power Resume. | Run Power Resume again. | TMBR, TMBP | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 251 | Lubrication oil low | The automatic lubrication pump tank is low. | Fill the tank with Tajima TF oil or the equivalent grade. | Models with auto lube | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 274 | Presser foot error | Fault in the motor-driven presser foot. | Power off and on. If it returns, the control card needs checking by a technician. | TMBR | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 281 | Needle position not found | The machine could not find the target needle within 8 seconds of starting a color change. | Turn the color change to a needle so the display matches the actual needle, then restart. Repeats point to the needle position sensor. | TFKN | TFKN manual |
| 291 | Upper thread break | The upper thread break sensor tripped, or the tension base / TC sensor card is faulty. | Rethread that needle from the cone, check the needle and tension. If the thread is not actually broken and it keeps tripping on one needle, the sensor card needs replacing. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 293 | Under thread break | The bobbin thread break detector tripped. | Check the bobbin: thread left, wound evenly, threaded through the case spring. Replace the bobbin and restart. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 2B1 | Network / serial device | No response from the network or serial device (PC, TFD). | Check the cable and the PC or device settings, then send again. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 2B2 | Code complement error | Design data is corrupt (opposite moves in one stitch record). | Re-export the DST from your software and load it again. | TFKN | TFKN manual |
| 2B3 | Data in end code | Extra data was found inside the end code. | Re-export the design; fix it in the digitizing software. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 2B4 | Function code error | A function code is malformed (no stitch code where one is required). | Re-export the design and reload. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 2B5 | Sequin data error | Sequin codes are in the design that the machine cannot run. | Remove sequin codes or set up the sequin device correctly. | TMBR, TMBP, TEHX | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 2B6 | Serial interface not ready | The serial port is not in communication mode. | Switch the serial interface to communication mode and resend. | TFKN | TFKN manual |
| 2B7 | Data set not completed | Start or frame forward was pressed before a design was set. | Select the design and complete data set, then start. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 2B8 | Read-ahead buffer empty | Design data is not arriving fast enough to keep up. | Lower the rpm while sewing; during frame forward, wait until the whole design is read. | TFKN, TEHX-C | TFKN manual |
| 2B9 | Memory write error | Writing to machine memory failed. | Retry. If it repeats, the CPU or memory card needs checking. | TFKN | TFKN manual |
| 2BA | Memory capacity exceeded | Machine memory is full. | Delete designs you no longer need from memory. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 2BB | Frame back limit | You have backed up further than the machine allows. | Stop pressing frame back; restart from here or reload the design. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 2BC | Design not available | No design in memory, or you tried to delete or edit the design that is currently sewing. | Load a design; to delete the active one, set a different design first; do not edit during sewing. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 2BE | Start/end codes not paired | Satin conversion, sequin, boring or low-speed codes are missing a start or end. | Fix the pairs in the data edit screen or in your software. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 2C1 | Started during setting | The machine was started while a data edit or needle bar selection screen was open (older panels: no needle bar selection made). | Finish or exit the setting screen, then start. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 2C2 | Option setting incorrect | An optional device setting does not match the machine. | Check the option settings (for example the air pressure sensor setting for auto clamp frames). | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 2C6 | Bobbin changer running | The machine was operated while the bobbin changer was moving. | Wait for the bobbin changer to finish. | Models with bobbin changer | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 2CE | Safety device | A safety device (beam sensor or cover) stopped the machine. | Clear whatever is in the way, press E, then press Start. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 2CF | Emergency stop | The emergency stop switch is locked in. | Release the emergency stop switch. | TFKN | TFKN manual |
| 2E2 | Air pressure low | Air pressure at the regulator dropped below the rated value. | Check the compressor, hoses and air supply. | Models with air devices | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 2E3 | Power failed | Power was lost while sewing (including emergency stop). | Turn the power on and run Power Resume so the design continues in the right place. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| B01 | Read/write error | Reading or writing the USB memory (floppy on older panels) failed. | Copy the design to a new, freshly formatted USB stick and try again. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| B03 | Write protect | The floppy's write-protect tab is open. | Close the write-protect tab. | TFKN | TFKN manual |
| B04 | No media | No USB memory (or floppy) is inserted. | Insert the USB stick fully. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| BC1 | Design not found | The design you chose is not on the media or in the design spooler. | Check the file is really there; pick another design. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| BC2 | File name exists | A file with the same name is already on the USB memory. | Rename the design before saving. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| BC5 | Media full | Not enough free space on the USB memory. | Use a stick with more free space or delete old files. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| BF1 | IP address not obtained | The network connection could not get an address from the DNS server. | Check the IP settings file and that the PC/server is running. | TMBR, TMBP | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| BF2 | IP settings file error | The network settings file has an error. | Correct the IP settings file. | TMBR, TMBP | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 5C1 | Frame origin memory | Frame origin memory was not done after a software install, or was interrupted. | Run Frame Origin Memory. | TMBR, TMBP | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| C01 | Floppy drive fault | The floppy drive does not work. | Check the drive connector; replace the drive or fit a USB floppy emulator. | TFKN, TEHX | TFKN manual |
| CE1 | Serial speed mismatch | The serial device and the machine use different communication speeds. | Set the same baud rate on both. | TEHX-C, TFHX | TEHX-C/TFHX manual |
| 311 | Encoder A signal | The main shaft encoder signal did not change for 5 seconds; motor or belt failure. | Power off and turn the shaft by hand to check for a jam. If it turns freely, call a technician to check the encoder, motor and belt. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 312 | Encoder Z signal | The main shaft home signal did not change while running. | Press E. If it returns, the main shaft motor or photo-interrupter card needs service. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 316 | Main shaft driver | Main shaft motor or driver error. | Power off and on. If it returns, call a technician. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 321 | Frame driver | The frame driver reported an error. | Power off and on; repeats need a technician. | TFKN | TFKN manual |
| 322 | X-axis driver | X-axis frame driver abnormality. | Power off and on (or wake from sleep). If it returns, a card or driver needs replacing. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 323 | Y-axis driver | Y-axis frame driver abnormality. | Same as 322. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 32C | X-axis travel incomplete | The frame did not finish an X move. | Power off and on; check nothing blocks the frame. Repeats need a technician. | TMBR, TMBP | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 32D | Y-axis travel incomplete | The frame did not finish a Y move. | Same as 32C. | TMBR, TMBP | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 331 | Bobbin changer error | Abnormal signal from the bobbin changer. | Reset, run the changer by hand and adjust where it binds. | Models with bobbin changer | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 354 | Motor overcurrent | Color change, ATH, sequin or cording motor drew too much current. | Power off and on, lower the rpm. Repeats need the head card checked. | TMBR, TMBP | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 376 | Presser foot position | The presser foot is not where it should be. | Power off and on. Repeats need the control card checked. | TMBR, TMBP | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 382 | Needle position signal | During a color change the needle position signal did not change for a second or more. | Check for a jammed needle case or thread caught in the color change. Repeats point to the color change motor or position sensor. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 383 | Needle position abnormal | Needle position is wrong, or no needle signal while running. | Make sure the needle count in the setup matches the machine. Repeats point to the needle position sensor. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 384 | One-turn signal | No one-revolution signal while the main shaft was running. | Call a technician to check the one-turn sensor. | TFKN | TFKN manual |
| 387 | Color change motor sensor | Color change motor encoder error. | Check the encoder wire of the color change motor (technician). | TMBR, TMBP | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 3A1 | Trimmer driver | The thread trimming driver reported an abnormality. | Call a technician to check the joint card and trimmer drive. | TFKN | TFKN manual |
| 3A6 | ATH knife position | The movable trimmer knife did not return to the same retracted position. | Power off, clean thread and lint from the trimmer, and check the movable knife moves freely back to its home. Repeats need knife adjustment. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 3A9 | Thread holder overcurrent | Upper thread holding motor overcurrent. | Clear thread wrapped around the holder, power off and on. Repeats need the head card checked. | TMBR, TMBP | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 3B5 | Communication / power error | Communication error inside the controller or a 280 V / 24 V supply fault; also wrong model chosen at software install. | Power off and on. If it stays, a technician must check harnesses, power supply cards and the software install. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 3C1 | Switch contact error | Bad contact in the bar switch or start/stop switch, or a broken switch harness. | Power off and on without touching the bar switch. Repeats need the switch or harness replaced. | All | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 3D1 | Backup battery low | The memory backup battery voltage dropped. | Leave the machine powered on to recharge, then re-enter settings and designs if they were lost. | TFKN | TFKN manual |
| 3D6 | Program / CPU error | The software is not installed correctly or the CPU card has a fault. | Reinstall the software (distributor). If it persists, the CPU card needs checking. | TMBR, TMBP | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 3DC | Memory device error | The internal memory device failed. | Power off and on, reinstall software; may need the memory module or CPU card replaced. | TMBR, TMBP | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |
| 3DE | External memory error | The USB memory device is faulty. | Power off and on and try another USB stick. If all sticks fail, the CPU card needs checking. | TMBR, TMBP | TMBR-SC/TMBP-SC manual |

## Common problems and fixes
### Upper thread keeps breaking (291)
**Symptoms:** thread, tension, needle
**Likely causes:** tension too tight, poor or old thread, needle turned or bent, dry or dirty rotary hook, many tiny stitches in the design, fabric flagging, burr on the thread path
1. Rethread the needle from the cone, following every guide, and make sure the thread is seated between the tension discs.
2. Change the needle. Make sure the eye faces straight forward or a hair to the right, and that it is pushed fully up.
3. Check tension with a gauge: Tajima's TMBR/TMBP manual gives roughly 120 to 140 g for upper thread and 20 to 30 g for bobbin thread.
4. Clean and oil the rotary hook (raceway and oil hole). Run the machine idle a moment so oil spreads.
5. Try a better quality thread; a silicone thread lubricant helps metallic and old thread.
6. Look at where it breaks. If it is always the same spot in the design, remove stitches shorter than about 0.5 mm (Cleanup function or your software).
7. Hoop so the fabric just touches the needle plate. Lifted, bouncing fabric breaks thread.
8. Polish any burr you find on the needle plate hole, presser foot or hook point with fine abrasive, or replace the part.
**Call a technician if:** breaks continue after all of the above, or you suspect hook timing, needle depth (lower dead point) or play in the needle bar case.

### Thread break sensor stops the machine but thread is fine
**Symptoms:** sensor, thread
**Likely causes:** detection set too sensitive, thread not wrapped on the detector, dirty detector disc, faulty tension base / TC sensor card
1. Check the thread is wrapped correctly around the thread detection roller on the tension base.
2. Clean the detector disc and its slot of lint and wax.
3. Open the Thread Detection setting and raise the number of consecutive detections for the upper thread (1 is most sensitive, 4 least). Use the per-needle "N" setting if only one needle misbehaves.
4. On older multi-heads, if one head's tension base card has failed, the manual explains how to cut that head out of control so the others keep sewing.
**Call a technician if:** a 291 keeps showing "TC sensor card error" or the needle bar moves even with the tension base switch at the bottom position.

### Bobbin thread breaks or bobbin runs out early (293)
**Symptoms:** bobbin, tension
**Likely causes:** bobbin tension wrong, uneven winding, lint in bobbin case, deformed bobbin
1. Replace the bobbin with a fresh, evenly wound one.
2. Blow lint out of the bobbin case and hook area every day.
3. Check bobbin tension (about 20 to 30 g per the TMBR/TMBP manual) and adjust the case spring screw in small steps.
4. Throw away any bobbin that is bent; it can touch the needle and break it.
5. If 293 stops the machine with thread left, adjust the under-thread detection count and sensitivity in Thread Detection.
**Call a technician if:** the bobbin case or hook shows wear grooves.

### Birdnest under the throat plate
**Symptoms:** birdnest, tension, thread
**Likely causes:** upper thread out of the tension discs, thread not caught by the take-up lever, thread not held at start, flagging fabric
1. Stop the machine, cut the nest away from underneath, and remove the needle plate if needed to clear the hook.
2. Rethread the upper thread fully, including the take-up lever.
3. Check the thread is held properly after each trim (thread holder / upper thread lock).
4. Re-hoop tighter and add stabilizer so the fabric does not bounce.
5. Turn the main shaft by hand to confirm nothing is jammed before restarting.
**Call a technician if:** the shaft does not turn freely after clearing (you may get 311 or 211).

### Needles break
**Symptoms:** needle
**Likely causes:** thick or hard material, very dense design, wrong needle for the job, bent bobbin, hoop strike, vibration
1. Use a needle size and point that suits the fabric and thread.
2. Reduce density or remove unneeded underlay in the design.
3. Check the design fits the hoop with margin; set a software frame limit so the needle bar cannot hit the frame.
4. Replace any bent bobbin.
5. Level the machine and stand so it does not rock.
6. After a needle break, check the hook point and needle plate for burrs before sewing again.
**Call a technician if:** the hook's needle guard is worn or the needle hits the hook.

### Frame limit stops (221 to 225) and designs that hit the hoop
**Symptoms:** frame, hoop, registration
**Likely causes:** design too big for the frame, wrong frame type selected, start point off center, software frame limit too tight
1. Press E, move the frame back inside the field with the jog keys.
2. Trace the design before sewing to confirm it fits.
3. Make sure the frame type set on the panel matches the frame on the machine (and the cap rotation is set when you change to caps).
4. Use Software Frame Limit so the machine stops before the needle bar reaches the frame.
**Call a technician if:** the frame hits a limit when it is clearly inside the field (possible origin or sensor fault).

### Trimmer does not cut, or 3A6
**Symptoms:** trimmer, thread
**Likely causes:** lint and thread packed in the ATH, blunt knife, knife not returning to home, wrong ATH start timing
1. Power off, remove the needle plate and blow out the ATH area. Tajima lists this as a daily job.
2. Pull out any thread wrapped around the movable knife.
3. If thread tails pull out of the needle at the next start, adjust ATH start timing or picker-off timing (older panels) to leave a longer tail.
4. Clear 3A6 only after the knife moves freely back to its home.
**Call a technician if:** the knife needs replacing or re-timing.

### Color change stalls or wrong needle (281, 382, 383)
**Symptoms:** colour-change, sensor, motor
**Likely causes:** needle case jammed by thread or debris, needle count set wrong, needle position sensor fault
1. Power off and clear anything that blocks the needle case from sliding.
2. Turn the color change by hand to a needle so the panel display matches the real needle.
3. Check the number of needles in setup matches the machine.
**Call a technician if:** 382, 383 or 387 return after clearing.

### Main shaft stops out of position (211, 311, 312)
**Symptoms:** motor, timing, sensor
**Likely causes:** thread jam at the hook, loose or worn belt, encoder or sensor fault
1. Power off and turn the main shaft by hand. Clear any thread jam at the hook.
2. Return the shaft to its stop position and restart.
3. If it turns stiffly, do not force it.
**Call a technician if:** the code returns, the belt is worn, or the shaft will not turn freely.

### USB or network will not load designs (B01, B04, BC1, BC5, BF1, 2B1)
**Symptoms:** usb, file, network
**Likely causes:** bad or full USB stick, file not in a format the machine reads, network settings wrong
1. Try a different, small, freshly formatted USB stick.
2. Save the design as DST (or TBF from Tajima software) and keep the file name short.
3. For network loading, check the cable, then the IP settings file on the machine and the PC software settings.
**Call a technician if:** every stick fails (3DE) or the network code returns after checking settings.

### Poor finish, loops or puckering
**Symptoms:** looping, puckering, tension, speed
**Likely causes:** tension off, density wrong for the fabric, loose hooping, needle/thread/needle plate not matched, rpm too high
1. Set tension first (see above).
2. Re-hoop with the right backing.
3. Lower the rpm for small lettering and dense fills.
4. Use Satin Stitch or Backlash adjustments only after the physical setup is right.
**Call a technician if:** take-up lever timing or drive belt tension is suspect.

### Caps sew off-center or hit the frame
**Symptoms:** cap, frame, registration
**Likely causes:** frame type not changed on panel, design not rotated 180 degrees, design too tall for the cap field
1. When you mount the cap driver, change the frame type on the panel; this also handles the 180-degree design rotation.
2. Keep cap designs inside the cap field and trace before sewing.
3. Lower the rpm for caps.
**Call a technician if:** the cap driver binds or makes noise.

## Maintenance schedule
| Interval | Task | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Every day | Clean the ATH (trimmer) and rotary hook area | Brush or air; power off first. Daily per the TMBR/TMBP and TFKN manuals. |
| Every 5 to 6 hours of running | Oil the rotary hook (oil hole and raceway) | TMBR/TMBP and TFKN interval. The older TEHX-C/TFHX manual says every 3 to 4 hours. Use Tajima TF oil or equivalent light spindle oil. |
| Once a week | Oil inside the head: needle bars, needle bar drive shaft, presser foot shaft, connecting rods, wick | Remove the two front screws to reach the presser foot shaft on TMBR. |
| Once a week | Oil the cylinder bed rotary hook shaft (TMBP) | Separate oiling points for TMBP heads. |
| Once a week | Clean the case linear section and motor filters | TFKN schedule; power supply box filter too. |
| Every 2 weeks | Clean X/Y drive system | TFKN and TEHX schedule. |
| Every 3 months | Grease cams (presser foot cam and others listed) and inspect belts | Tajima asks you to consult the distributor before greasing. Check belt tension, wear and cracks. |
| Every 6 months | Grease take-up lever cam, bevel gear, ATH cam and X/Y drive (TFKN list) | Mineral oil-based lithium grease or equivalent. |
| When OIL halt shows | Oil the listed points and press E | The lubrication reminder interval can be set on many panels. |
| Machine unused for a long time | Turn the power on regularly | Card backup batteries drain if power stays off for about a month. |

## Settings that cause stitch problems
- **Jump Convert (TMBR/TMBP F1 menu):** decides how many consecutive jump codes turn into a trim (NO, or 1 to 9). Set too high and long jumps are left untrimmed; set too low and the machine trims in places you did not want. The Frame Movement option (batch or as-data) changes how the frame travels to the next stitch.
- **Thread Detection:** sets how many consecutive detections stop the machine for the upper thread (0 to 4, or per needle) and under thread (0, 2, 4, 6, 8, plus a step ratio of 30 to 100%). 0 turns detection off, which is only meant for idling. Too sensitive gives false 291/293 stops; too loose lets the machine sew without thread.
- **Min. Revolution, Revolution Limit and Max. Revolution Limit:** cap the speed by stitch length or in parts of a design. Very high rpm on long satin stitches or caps causes breaks and poor registration.
- **Auto Jump and Cleanup:** Auto Jump splits long stitches; Cleanup deletes tiny stitches. Many thread breaks in one spot often go away after Cleanup removes stitches under about 0.5 mm.
- **ATH Start Timing and Picker OFF timing (older panels):** control the thread tail left after a trim. Too short and the thread pulls out of the needle at the next start.
- **Frame Start Timing:** changes when the frame moves relative to the needle, which changes how tight stitches pull. Wrong values show up as puckering or loose stitches.
- **Software Frame Limit and Stop at Lower Dead Point:** protect against hoop strikes; turning them off removes that protection.
- **Frame type and 180-degree rotation:** after swapping between flat and cap frames, change the frame type on the panel or the design will sew upside down or hit the frame.
- **Code format (older panels):** TFKN and TEHX panels can read Barudan and ZSK code formats. If a design loads with strange jumps, check the selected code format is Tajima.

## Official manuals, FAQs and support
- [Tajima support and distributor list](https://www.tajima.com/support/) — find your official distributor by country (Hirsch Solutions for the USA)
- [Tajima FAQ](https://www.tajima.com/faq/) — company and purchasing questions; no technical content
- [TMEZ-SC brochure (PDF)](https://www.tajima.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/TMEZ-SC_E.pdf) — i-TM, DCP presser foot, needle options and speed
- [Hirsch technical support](https://www.hsi.us/support) — US service tickets, phone support, links to manuals and training
- [Hirsch service documents hub](https://docs.hic.us/service-documents) — TMBP/TMBR user's guide, SAI operation manual and legacy parts lists
- [TMBR-SC / TMBP-SC user's manual](https://docs.hic.us/service-documents/tmbp-tmbr-users-guide) — full stop-code list, thread detection, jump convert, lubrication
- [SAI operation manual](https://docs.hic.us/service-documents/sai-operation-manual) — Tajima SAI compact machine
- [Hirsch Tajima document hub](https://docs.hic.us/tajima) — current brochures for TMEZ, TMBP2, TMAR, TMCR and SAI
- [TMEZ-KC at Hirsch](https://www.hsi.us/tmez-kc) — multi-head specs and features
- [SAI at Hirsch](https://www.hsi.us/sai) — compact single-head specs
- [TMBP2 at Hirsch](https://www.hsi.us/tmbp) — single-head specs
- [TMAR-VC at Hirsch](https://www.hsi.us/tmar-vc) — multi-head cap machine specs

## Frequently asked questions
### What does Tajima error 291 mean?
291 means the machine detected an upper thread break, or on some models that the tension base or TC sensor card has a fault. Rethread the needle shown, change the needle and check tension. If the thread is not broken and 291 keeps appearing on the same needle, the sensor card or the thread detection setting is the problem.

### What is the difference between green and red codes on a Tajima panel?
On the TMBR/TMBP panel, green codes (the 1xx group and OIL) are normal stops such as end of design, stop codes or the oiling reminder. Red 2xx codes are abnormal stops you can usually fix at the machine. Red 3xx and some other codes come from cards, motors or communication and Tajima says to contact your distributor.

### How often should I oil a Tajima embroidery machine?
For TMBR/TMBP and TFKN machines the rotary hook gets oil every 5 to 6 hours of running, and the head parts once a week. Older TEHX-C and TFHX machines call for hook oil every 3 to 4 hours. Use Tajima TF oil or an equivalent light spindle oil, and follow the OIL halt reminder when it appears.

### Why does my Tajima show 2B7?
2B7 means you pressed start or frame forward before a design was set. Select the design, finish the data set step, and then start.

### What files does a Tajima machine read?
Tajima machines read DST, Tajima's long-standing format, and newer panels also read TBF, which carries more function codes. Older TFKN and TEHX panels can also be switched to Barudan or ZSK code formats.

### How do I stop false thread break stops?
Clean the detector disc and check the thread wraps it properly. Then raise the detection count in the Thread Detection setting, or set it per needle for the one needle that misbehaves. Do not set it to 0 for production; that is only for idling.

### Can a multi-head keep running if one head has a fault?
Yes on many models. You can switch a head off from control, and the older TEHX-C/TFHX manual describes fitting a jumper on the tension base so a head with a failed card is ignored. Have the bad head repaired before the next big run.

## Diagrams

- [Five-minute diagnosis](https://easydigitizer.com/troubleshooter/img/diagnose-flow.svg): Where to start when the machine stops or sews badly.
- [Upper thread path](https://easydigitizer.com/troubleshooter/img/thread-path.svg): Every guide from the cone to the needle eye — the fix for most breaks and nests.
- [Why birdnests happen](https://easydigitizer.com/troubleshooter/img/birdnest.svg): What a nest is, the usual causes in order, and how to clear one safely.
- [The I-test for tension](https://easydigitizer.com/troubleshooter/img/tension-test.svg): Read the back of a satin column to balance top and bobbin tension.
- [Bobbin drop test](https://easydigitizer.com/troubleshooter/img/bobbin-drop-test.svg): Set bobbin tension before you touch the top tension.
- [Needle orientation](https://easydigitizer.com/troubleshooter/img/needle-orientation.svg): Long groove to the front, scarf to the hook, pushed fully up.
- [Hook timing](https://easydigitizer.com/troubleshooter/img/hook-timing.svg): What correct hook-to-needle timing and clearance look like.
- [Presser foot height](https://easydigitizer.com/troubleshooter/img/presser-foot-height.svg): Too high causes flagging and loops; too low drags and breaks thread.
- [Hooping layers](https://easydigitizer.com/troubleshooter/img/hooping.svg): Firm, flat and square — the root of most puckering and registration faults.
- [Caps: frame and sequence](https://easydigitizer.com/troubleshooter/img/cap-frame.svg): Cap frame set-up, centre-out sewing and safe sew height.
- [Cleaning and oiling points](https://easydigitizer.com/troubleshooter/img/maintenance-points.svg): Daily and weekly care points on a multi-needle head.

---

Part of the EasyDigitizer embroidery machine troubleshooter: https://easydigitizer.com/troubleshooter/ · Agent playbook: https://easydigitizer.com/troubleshooter/agent.md · Not affiliated with any machine maker; the machine's own manual takes priority. Design-related sew-out problems (density, underlay, pull compensation): https://easydigitizer.com/help