Janome 3160QDC

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Janome 3160QDC

I bought a Janome 1360QDC sewing machine two weeks ago. I am very disappointed with its performance.

As it turns out thread gets wound around the bobbin quite often and it is a huge hassle to get it right. The throat plate has to be unscrewed and the bobbin and the case have to come out in order to get all the thread untangled.

I have taken it back to the dealer once and will be taking it back tomorrow for the same thing.

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Janome 3160QDC

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May 28, 2011
Rating

janome 3160 qdc - big disappointment
by: JENNIFER

My mother purchased a Janome machine at my recommendation - the dealer talked her into the 3160 QDC model. This was in June 2010 - and it has now made three trips to the dealer to repair the bobbin case supporter! First it was the thread - second I was going too fast - third it was just plain old you don't know how to sew! Have been sewing for a good 40 years and my mother a good 60! I have owned my Janome for 5 years and never had a problem. I offered for the dealer to take back the 3160 QDC and give my mother a machine that works (one of lesser value) no deal. Writing letters today to see if Janome will offer any support. Wished she hadn't bought this machine.

Feb 21, 2011
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disappointed
by: Anonymous

I traded my Janome 760 platinum for this Janome 3160 model last summer and Im sorry I did. I had trouble right from the start. I dont like the way it stitches, winds the bobbin unevenly, and the bobbin has a tendency to jam. The 760 was so much better! Im hoping that perhaps this bobbin support may be able to resolve some of the problems. The dealer has only suggested tightening up the tension as a corrective measure.

Feb 12, 2011
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followup to Dec 31 'bobbin thread jam, twisting the case'
by: Anonymous

I took my 3160 QDC in for servicing. They checked everything over, cleaned it, polished the bobbin case, etc.... and charged me even though the machine is still under warrantee.

The sewing machine is better, but not trouble free. I start sewing very slowly now, and I hold the threads behind the presser foot to reduce the risk of a tangle in the bobbin case. I know what the jams sound like, so I stop sewing if I hear one start, and I make sure the bobbin case is ok before I try again. It has happened two or three times (I just finished sewing a shirt).

Now that I know that a technical bulletin has been issued, I'm going to take up the issue again with the dealer. I'm not sure whether the technician replaced the bobbin case supporter, but it seems not since there is still a tendency to jam. In addition, I should not have been charged for the cleaning and repair in the first place: this is a manufacturing defect.

Thanks to the person who first posted this link to the technical bulletin:
http://blog.tv-sewingcenter.com/janome/bobbin-case-supporter-issue-with-some-janome-3160qdc-sewing-machines/

Jan 27, 2011
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Bobbin Issues resolved
by: Anonymous

I finally decided to buy the 3160QDC. But after reading all the reviews regarding the bobbin tangling up I had reservations. I did some research and found there was and issue with the Bobbin Case Support. Basically the case was not being held securely in place and a shim needed to be installed. You can read more about it from this blog.

http://blog.tv-sewingcenter.com/janome/bobbin-case-supporter-issue-with-some-janome-3160qdc-sewing-machines/

It should be covered under warranty.

Jan 14, 2011
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Janome 3160QDC
by: New Quilter

I received my Janome 3160QDC machine as a Christmas Gift this year. I had taken on the ambitious task of a "slightly larger than queen" size quilt as my first real project on a sewing machine. After learning the basics on a much older manual Janome machine, I felt it was time to get my own. This was the machine I eventually chose.
I read reviews and talked with everyone I know that quilts. I then found a dealer nearby. ("The Scarlet Thread" in Webster, NY) I called ahead and talked to the woman who owns the shop. I told her I was a beginning quilter looking for a machine. I set up a time to meet with her at the store. She walked me through many many things I did not know, and took the time to educate me. I got to try sewing on several machines (including the Horizon 7700QCP and the MC6600P)just to get a feel for the differences.
Despite all the reviews talking about jammed bobbins and problems with winding, I felt that the education I received assuaged any fears I had about these problems.
The first thing I did when I got home was to READ THE OWNERS MANUAL. In the manual, I found a couple more things that I didn't know. One of those had very specifically to do with winding bobbins. In the manual, it indicates how to thread it, and then it says to make sure that the speed is all the way up before beginning winding.
The only problem I had with bobbin winding was the time I forgot to turn the speed the rest of the way up before I started. The only problem I've had with fabric/thread jams was twice when I was quilting the several layers of my quilt. I didn't have a steady foot on the pedal. I started, then stopped, then started again. User error.
I really do suspect that most of the problems that people have are user related, not machine problems.
Overall, I love my Janome3160DQC. I would recommend it (and good dealer support/education, and reading your user manual) to absolutely anyone.

Dec 31, 2010
Rating

Janome 7700
by: Anonymous

Bought a Janome 7700 in May 2010. Was excited about all the features. However, it has been a nightmare. Has been to shop more than I have sewn with it. EVERY time I try to sew the bobbin unit has jammed and I have broken more needles than I can count. Each time I take it in they say it is operator error, but I haven't even done any fancy things with it only straight stitching and some free motion quilting. Use quality thread and needles. Tired of rewinding bobbins and replacing needles. I owned a Viking for 35 years and had no problems other than regular maintenance until recently. Also, have had three needle threaders installed and that still does not work. Buyers beware of purchasing this machine. When and if it sews it is nice, but plan on more down time and running to the repair shop. Dealer does not seem interested in changing it out to see if that is the problem. I am going to have it fixed and am off to find another dealer and different machine. Definately not worth the money.

Dec 31, 2010
Rating

bobbin thread jam, twisting the case
by: Anonymous

I have had the Janome 3160 QDC about eight months. It was fine for the first six months or so, but now the bobbin thread and case are jamming frequently. As other reviewers describe, the thread tangles up in the bobbin, jamming the needle, and twisting the bobbin case up on an angle. It makes a terrible noise, and then safely powers down. I have to take the metal cover plate off to undo the tangle, and can see how much torque as been exerted on the bobbin case. Sometimes the needle even bends or breaks!

I am very careful about threading my machine, and cleaning the lint out of the bobbin area frequently. I use Janome bobbins only. I'm going back to the dealer to see what is wrong, and I'll post again after that. Because the jams have become more frequent over time, I intuit that one of the jams was severe enough to throw off the accuracy of the bobbin mechanism.

Janome has a stellar reputation, and from what I've read, it seems like their top of the line sewing machines deserve it. I wish I had known to invest in one of them. My advice to anyone who asked would be to save up and invest in one of the top quality Janome models. (Having had a Janome Jem, and now the 3160, I would avoid 'affordable' or entry level products, by Janome or any other sewing machine company.)

Nov 27, 2010
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New to sewing
by: Kimmer

I am a very new to sewing (quilter) but I really like my machine ! My old machine was a singer and this machine puts it to shame with everything it has on it. I have tried most of all 60 stitches and found them all to work well unlike my singer they all seemed to look the same when it came to the different stitches . I have not had one bobbin issue since owning the machine ! My only complaint with the Janome is fabric getting stuck at the take off ! I was taught to use a cheater sheet and when I remember I do but sometimes even my cheater sheet gets caught . I notice the cheaper the fabric the easier it get caught. All in All I love my Janome

Nov 23, 2010
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traded mine in
by: Jen

I traded my 3160 in on an MC6500. I've had the 6500 for about 2 weeks so far it is awesome. Wish I'd traded the piece of junk (3160) in earlier.

Nov 18, 2010
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3160 bobbin case problem
by: Anonymous

I have purchased a Janome 3160 in Sept 2010. I seriously regret buying this machine.
The bobbin case has been changed 3 times because the bobbin case twists around and jams. It will be working fine for a few days, I calculate 6 hours of sewing time before it is unusable.I am not a novice to sewing, my last machine was a Bernina, I had it 30 years and it still worked great,I gave that to my sister, another regret! not one problem in all that time!
I have a Singer which I am using for back up.
I read the letter from the person who thinks that it is operator error. It is NOT.
the machine has serious design flaws. I use the needles and the bobbin case supplied, I know my machine etiquette.
Wish I had not bought the darn thing.

Nov 16, 2010
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3160QDC
by: cutting edge

I just purchased a Janome 3160QDC so far everything has been great. I am making brides maid dresses and so far the seams have been great.

Nov 06, 2010
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I totally agree with anonymous
by: Anonymous

I have owned many machines in 40 years of sewing. 99.9% of the time it is user error with bobbin issues. There are soooo many things not just with winding the bobbin but threading the machine which can cause problems. This is a great machine for its price point. I own a $13,000 dollar emb machine and if I don't wind the bobbin right or thread the machine properly I have the same issues. It is called user error.

Nov 04, 2010
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correction
by: Anonymous

I wrote in giving my opinion on instruction and operator error on the 3160QDC. I rated the site not the machine the machine is a 5 start in my book

Nov 04, 2010
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instruction, instruction
by: Anonymous

As I read through these comments of verious problems taking place with the 3160QDC one thing comes to mind. Why are you not sitting at your dealer using the machine to show them there is a problem. It is so helpful so if it does act up they can see the actual event.
When you purchase a machine any machine you should receive instruction on it. If you are thinking of purchasing a mcahine some place that doesn't give instruction DON'T BUY IT.
Owning, selling and teaching Janome machines for 28 years I know janome quality. There have been very very few machines with the New Home or Janome name on them had problems.
One the 3160 just like any machine you need to be sure that the take up lever is threaded. When you thake your hand wheel at the sdie and you move it Slightly forwand and backward you will see a silver lever go up and down toward the right front of the machine. That is the take up lever. If when you are threading the machine hold the thread with your right hand and guide the thread through the machine with your left hand
pulling both ends tight as you go around the take up lever. That makes sure it goes all the way into the hole on the take up lever. That is 99.999% of the problems that customers have happen. If you also start to sew to fast the thread on any of the newer machines will fall out of the takeup lever whether it is a Janome or another brand.
I hate to say that most often it is the operator. Go to your dealer and get help!!!

When you give negative comments on any post about any subject to need to be sure you have tried everything and looked into it completely before making that comment.

I rated this page low because I don't like these lists. They discourage machine buyers into researching on their own the right machine for themselves

Oct 26, 2010
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Janome 3160QDC love/hate relationship
by: Jen

I bought a Janome 3160QDC in March. Since then I have replced 6 bobbin cases because of the case twisting in the housing and causing the machine to jam. My dealer replaced the machine once and I only buy my needles an dbobbins from my dealer. I am waiting for a call from them today to see about getting a different machine. I LOVE the 3160 QDC when it works. It has some very nice features on it. It sews very quietly and at whatever speed I want until it decides to jam up. I can't afford to replace the bobbin case every month, and with the price of the machine I shouldn't have to.

Oct 25, 2010
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Bobbin and thread not clarified
by: Susan thompson

I think the Janome 3160 has serious flaws. I used only the bobbins
and needles that came with the machine. Something is wrong that
makes the thread get tangled up under the bobbin case while you
are sewing. I have an old Kenmore that works perfectly. It's the
Janome 3160 that I frustrated me so much that I returned it.

Oct 25, 2010
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Oct 24, 2010
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Bobbin & Thread Issues Clarified
by: Anonymous

After reading all the negative reviews concerning bobbin cases and thread tangling, I asked a very experienced Sears associate about that (since Janome makes the Kenmore models) and she confirmed that if you don't use the right bobbin, and the right needle, the machine cannot be expected to work properly.

The flat bobbins and convex bobbins look very similar, and if you don't look closely, you could insert an incorrect bobbin, in error.

These are precision machines and you must set them up properly for them to function flawlessly. So...it seems that it is user error to blame in most cases when issues like this arise.

There has to be a reason why Janome and Kenmore have so many 5-star ratings. A lot of people swear by these machines.

Oct 21, 2010
Rating

Janome 6019QC
by: Wendy

I was aware when I bought the 6019QC (last year)that it was one of the cheaper models but share the disappointment that buyers are reporting in other machines as my experience sounds similar. I wonder if anyone else has the 6019 and same problems. One fault is in actually winding the bobbin, which sometimes is very uneven. Then the tension is difficult to get right and the bobbin seems to trap the needle thread. When I get the tension right, the next time I use the machine (even next day) it goes wrong again.

Am having a service soon to see if anything has fallen off or is out of place. Otherwise will be contacting dealer but I bought online so will have to fund postage.

Oct 13, 2010
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Janome 3160 DQC Bobbin Case and Jamming Problems
by: Confused

I am been reading the reviews on the Janome 3160 DQC and there seems to be a common problems with bobbin case and jamming problems.

I guess one needs to know what the refund or return policy is with the Janmone Company and or the Dealer before you make your purchase. That type of information should always be given to the customer in writing at the time you purchase.
and:

Why is it each dealer can make and set their own refund or return policy as to if they will or will not refund your money for a refund or return. If you are having too many repairs for the same problem over and over and the problem continues and or you are not completely satisfied with it performance??

Why don't they all have the same policy for refunds and returns in place for all Janome Dealers?? Shouldn't all Janome dealers have the same policies?

Seems to me if you have a lemon or the machine does not live up the they performance you expect you should be able to return it and/or get a full refund, etc... Too bad you are stuck with it. What every happen to customer satisfaction and and/or a guarantee return or refund policy?

I am not so sure I would ever buy from Janome...

Oct 11, 2010
Rating

Janome 3160 DQC
by: Jude

I have only had my Janome 3160 QDC for 5 months and have it into repair twice now.

It jams so easily, which cause's the bobbin to pop up of the bobbin case and twist. The jams cause the machine to jump up and down and make a terriable noise's and keeping jamming the only way to stop it ...is to un-plug it quickly as not to damage other parts..???

It started to act up the first week I brought it home.

I was told it was user error and not the machine.
That I probably did not tread it right or used the wrong thread or I did not wind my bobbin correctly or that I did not put the bobbin in correctly.? I am been sewing for 30 years and I do know how to thread and wind bobbins?? Well, it is now in for a big time repair.

I asked Janome about refund and or returns or replacing the machine...I was told that each dealer had there or policies and I would have to work with the dealer where I brought it...??? I am really upset and very un-happy with the 3160 DQC and the Janome policy.

I have used Singer Machines for years and I have never had my bobbin case pop out of place, twist and jam up my machine. I am so sorry that I switched brands. I have nothing good to say about my Janome 3160 QDC sewing machine.

Oct 08, 2010
Rating

Janome 3160QDC
by: Anonymous

It is interesting to read the negative comments regarding the bobbin/thread problems with the Janome 3160QDC. I am considering purchasing my second Janome sewing machine, the first being the QC6019. I have great support from my dealer and am able to take mini courses for each machine (I also have a Janome serger). Most of my thread/sewing problems have been fixed with first rethreading my machine. I also make sure that my bobbin has wound properly, and if it hasn't, it is usually because I have missed wrapping the thread around one of the upper guides. Another thing to remember is that the machines require their own bobbins.....other bobbins from Singer, Husqvarna, White, etc. will not work properly in a Janome so hide all those other bobbins. It is also helpful if the bottom and top thread are the same type....at least when getting use to your machine. Then experiment with the fancier threads. Be patient...I hope you don't have a "lemon".

Oct 07, 2010
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disappointed as well
by: Anonymous

My Janome 3160 QDC is only four weeks old. I too have had issues with the bobbin case and thread binding up under the plate, which requires disassembling to remove the thread and replace bobbin case, which just gets pulled up out of place again. It is a very expensive machine and I should not have to deal with this problem time and again. It was repaired once already and I have to take it in again tomorrow. There is no return policy. Hoping it gets fixed once and for all.

Sep 28, 2010
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I stand corrected
by: AnonymousTech 31 years

Sorry folks but I stand corrected. The Janome 7700 comes out of Janome's Taiwan facctory.

This is still an excellent machine. The machine will sew through six layers of cotton no problem. You sewers out there need to remember to use the proper needle for the job. I recommend a quilting needle or a sharp. Most needles that come with your machine are unuversal medium ball point. These tend to push on the fabric before piercing it. This is what can cause uneven straight stitches and slight pucketing in cotton fabric.
Same goes for having several layers if cotton. Use the proper needle fir best results. Happy sewing.

Sep 27, 2010
Rating

My Janome 7700 is made in Taiwan
by: Susan Thompson

Right now I am pleased with the Janome 7700. It has so many features that it is taking a while to
learn the machine. I have only had one jam and it was fixed without unscrewing the throat plate. It may be me and not the machine but I have to try 3 or 4 times before I get the needle threaded using the needle threader.

I have not gotten to doing the button holes or quilt tying. I might try them to see what happens.
For the price of this sewing machine, I expect everything to be perfect.

Sep 27, 2010
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Janome 7700 can come from Taiwan.
by: Anonymous

Tech said the Janome 7700 was made in Japan. Well some of them may be, but mine has a silver label on the back clearly stating it was made in Taiwan. I am very disappointed in this machine, it has feeding problems, ie will not sew through even 4 layers of cotton, the buttonholes are poor and don't always complete the 4 steps, the clasp stitch recommended for tieing quilts, puckers the corners together, to name but a few. It is being returned to the dealer for adjusting but if it is no better, Janome will be hearing from me. I am led to believe though there are many people who are delighted with this machine, so it could just be I have a lemon. It was one of the first machines to leave the factory in Taiwan. Wish I had known that was where it was made before I purchased. Hindsight is a wonderful thing.

Sep 08, 2010
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Janome 3160 qdc jammed bobbin
by: Anonymous

I've owned this machine for 2 months and just installed my 3rd bobbin. sewed 3 stiches and the needle is stuck in the bobbin housing. Hope I can get some satisfaction from the dealer. Paid $775.00 with tax and am very unhappy

Sep 08, 2010
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There is no comparison
by: Susan Thompon

When I stated t hat I returned the newly purchased Janome 3160QDC and bought the higher end Janome 7700 - I was not comparing them. There is no comparison between these two machines. As far as I am concerned the Janome 7700 is a top of the line sewing machine.

I made the investment because I really needed a machine that would do what I wanted it too. I am a textile artist and I need a machine that will sew through paint and dyes and stacks of fabric. Hopefully the Janome 7700 can handle it.

I can't wait for it to come in.

Sep 08, 2010
Rating

Janome 3160
by: Tech for 31 years

Wow the Janome 3160 is a totally different machine then the Janome 7700. You can't honestly compare them. The 3160 comes out of Janome's Taiwan factory and the 7700 comes out of their Japan factory.

The 7700 is their top line quilting machine were the 3160 is a mid-line lighter weight machine. You need to compare more with their now discontinued 3018 or 3050 models.

Sep 06, 2010
Rating

Janome 3160
by: gjquinn

I have had this machine about 2 months and it started to get thread tangled under the bobbin and pop it up and jam the casing. You would have to take the throat plate off and untangle the mess.

I have had it in the shop twice and they are trying to say it is my fault somehow. I am going to pick it up tomorrow and am taking print out of these reviews with me! We are not alone!!

Janome is great, but this product has too many kinks in it!

Sep 05, 2010
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Janome 3160qdc
by: Susan Thompson

I wrote the review about the thread getting getting tangled up around the bobbin. I was using this machine exclusively for free motion sewing. The dealer agreed with me that free motion stitching is rough on the Janome 3160qdc machine for long periods of time. I returned the machine and bought a Janome 7700. It has not come in yet, but I think this machine can take it.

Sep 03, 2010
Rating

Janome 3160QDC
by: Steve

I bought the Janome 3160QDC sewing machine about a month ago, and I love it. I bought it because we are sewing bridesmaids dresses and the satin fabric is very tricky to sew with. We had tried sewing with it on our Viking, but the stitching was too puckery. My new Janome 3160QDC sewing machine has an adjustable presser foot tension (different than sewing tension), and I have found that to be very helpful.

I saw that there was another review that had problems the thread getting wound around the bobbin, but I have had no trouble with that. One feature that I really like is the scissors. Once you're done sewing a seam you just push the scissors button and it cuts the thread.

The machine runs very smoothly and is very easy to thread. You can also sew with out the pedal so if you go somewhere to sew and you forgot your pedal you wouldn't be stuck. I also like the feature that allows you to adjust your maximum speed even when using the foot pedal.

I have also liked to be able to control the stitch length and the needle placement. It is very easy to change either of those with the LCD screen and controls.

I also really like the extension table. It makes it easy to make sure my fabric is laid out nice and flat.

All in all it has turned out to be a great machine, and I have not regretted my decision to get it. The Janome 3160QDC may be more expensive than some of the other machines, but I have found it to be worth the money!

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