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Brother BE-438B - User Manual

Brother BE-438B
198 pages
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KE-430B, 430C, 431B, 431C
KE-432B, 432C, 433B
SERVICE MANUAL
KE-434B, 434C, 435B, 435C
KE-436B, 436C, 484C
BE-438B, 438C
Please read this manual before using the machine.
Please keep this manual within easy reach for quick reference.
ELECTRONIC LOCKSTITCH BAR TACKER
ELECTRONIC LOCKSTITCH BELT LOOP BAR TACKER
ELECTRONIC LOCKSTITCH PATTERN TACKER
ELECTRONIC LOCKSTITCH BUTTON SEWER

Table of Contents

Questions and Answers

  • E
    Elizabeth KimSep 10, 2025
    What causes incorrect work clamp lift amount on Brother BE-438B?
    • K
      Kathryn BrownSep 12, 2025
      An incorrect work clamp lift amount or button clamp lift amount can be caused by: * Incorrect position of the work clamp arm lever plate (button clamp holder hook assembly); adjust the work clamp (button clamp) lift amount. * Incorrect position of the work clamp arm lever; adjust the work clamp (button clamp) lift amount.
  • G
    Gabrielle BrewerAug 23, 2025
    What to do if my Brother Sewing Machine skips stitches?
    • P
      pamelathomasAug 23, 2025
      Skipped stitches can occur for several reasons: 1. The clearance between the needle and rotary hook tip might be too great; adjust the needle clearance. 2. The needle and rotary hook timing could be incorrect; adjust the needle bar lift amount. 3. The driver might be contacting the needle too much (except KE-484C); adjust the driver needle guard. 4. The needle could be bent; replace it. 5. The needle might be installed incorrectly; install it correctly. 6. The needle thread might be too short; adjust the thread take-up lever stroke.
  • D
    donna71Aug 25, 2025
    How to fix Brother BE-438B when needle breaks?
    • S
      Sarah PalmerAug 25, 2025
      A needle can break for the following reasons: * The needle is touching the rotary hook; adjust the needle clearance. * The needle is bent; replace the needle. * The needle is too thin; use the correct needle for the material. * The needle is striking the button; refer to “6. CHECKING THE SEWING PATTERN” in the Instruction Manual.
  • M
    Melissa FrancisAug 27, 2025
    Why is the thread coming unthreaded on my Brother BE-438B Sewing Machine?
    • A
      Ashley SmithAug 27, 2025
      The thread may come unthreaded due to: * Stitches being skipped at the sewing start; refer to “Skipped stitches occur”. * Uneven needle thread; adjust the sub-tension. * The needle thread being too short; adjust the thread take-up lever stroke.
  • J
    Janice LewisAug 28, 2025
    Why is my Brother BE-438B lower thread breaking?
    • S
      Shawn CollinsAug 28, 2025
      The lower thread may break because: * The lower thread tension is too strong, so adjust the lower thread tension. * The corners of the needle hole plate or bobbin case are damaged; file smooth or replace the affected part.
  • C
    Christopher BurnsAug 29, 2025
    What to do if Brother Sewing Machine thread is jamming?
    • D
      donaldsonmckenzieAug 29, 2025
      Thread jamming can occur if: * The thread take-up spring tension and height are incorrect; adjust them. * The needle and rotary hook timing are incorrect; adjust the needle bar lift amount. * The shuttle race thread guide is not separating the threads; adjust its position.
  • J
    Jerry KentSep 18, 2025
    What to do if inner clamping device does not operate in Brother BE-438B?
    • M
      Michael FieldsSep 18, 2025
      If the inner clamping device does not operate, adjust the work clamp pressure so that the inner clamping device operates.
  • T
    thomas64Sep 12, 2025
    What to do if Brother Sewing Machine work clamp does not close?
    • M
      Martin HuffSep 12, 2025
      If the work clamp does not close, check whether the stop lever is engaged with the stop position adjusting plate or not, and adjust the position of the presser closing roller.
  • B
    blackrebeccaSep 8, 2025
    What to do if the Brother BE-438B Sewing Machine work clamp does not rise?
    • M
      margaretdavisSep 8, 2025
      If the work clamp or button clamp does not rise, it could be due to: * Sluggish work clamp operation; grease the sliding part of the work clamp. * The work clamp (Button clamp) lift amount being too great; adjust the work clamp (button clamp) lift amount. * Too much friction between the work clamp plate and work clamp arm lever plate; grease them. * The work clamp contacting the thread wiper; adjust the position of the thread wiper.
  • E
    Erika AlvarezSep 5, 2025
    How to fix Brother BE-438B Sewing Machine when upper thread is not trimmed?
    • D
      Dorothy CrawfordSep 5, 2025
      If the upper thread is not being trimmed, it could be due to: * A blunt movable knife; replace it. * A blunt fixed knife; sharpen or replace it. * The movable knife not picking up the thread; adjust the position of the shuttle race thread guide. * Skipped stitches at the sewing end preventing the movable knife from picking up the thread; refer to “Skipped stitches occur”. * An incorrect movable knife position; adjust it. * Sub-tension being too weak; turn the sub-tension nut to adjust the tension.

Summary

Safety Instructions

Safety Indications and Their Meanings

Explains the meaning of safety indications and symbols used on the machine.

Notes on Safety

Environmental Requirements

Details safe operating conditions regarding environment, temperature, and humidity.

Installation Safety

Provides safety guidelines for installing the sewing machine.

Warning Labels

Safety Devices

Lists and identifies key safety devices on the sewing machine.

Direction of Operation

Indicates the direction of operation for machine components.

Adjustment Procedures

Adjusting Needle Bar Height

Details the procedure for adjusting the needle bar height for proper sewing.

Adjusting Needle Bar Lift Amount

Explains how to adjust the needle bar lift for optimal thread take-up.

Adjusting Thread Wiper

Provides steps for adjusting the thread wiper mechanism for correct thread cutting.

Adjusting Home Position

Outlines the process for setting the machine's home position for X and Y axes.

Mechanical Descriptions

Needle Bar and Thread Take-Up Mechanisms

Describes the components and function of the needle bar and thread take-up systems.

Lower Shaft and Shuttle Race Mechanisms

Explains the lower shaft and shuttle race mechanisms and their operation.

Work Clamp Lifter Mechanism

Details the components and function of the work clamp lifter mechanism.

Work Clamp Open-Close Mechanism

Describes the mechanism responsible for opening and closing the work clamp.

Thread Wiper Mechanism

Explains the components and operation of the thread wiper system.

Feed Mechanism

Describes the X and Y movements of the feed mechanism for pattern creation.

Thread Trimmer Mechanism

Details the components and function of the thread trimming mechanism.

Thread Nipper Mechanism

Explains the operation of the thread nipper mechanism for thread control.

Thread Take-Up Mechanism

Describes the components and function of the thread take-up mechanism.

Disassembly Procedures

Covers Disassembly

Instructions for removing and disassembling the machine's covers.

Work Clamp Arm Mechanism (KE-430 B, 430 C, 431 B, 431 C)

Details the disassembly steps for the work clamp arm on specific models.

Work Clamp Arm Mechanism (KE-432 B, 432 C)

Details the disassembly steps for the work clamp arm on specific models.

Work Clamp Arm Mechanism (KE-433 B)

Details the disassembly steps for the work clamp arm on specific models.

Work Clamp Arm Mechanism (KE-434 B, 434 C, 435 B, 435 C, 436 B, 436 C, 484 C)

Details the disassembly steps for the work clamp arm on specific models.

Work Clamp Arm Mechanism (BE-438 B, 438 C)

Details the disassembly steps for the work clamp arm on specific models.

Shuttle Hook Mechanism

Explains the disassembly and components of the shuttle hook mechanism.

Needle Bar Mechanism

Details the disassembly and components of the needle bar mechanism.

Stepping Foot Mechanism (KE-435 B, 435 C, 436 B, 436 C)

Details the disassembly steps for the stepping foot mechanism on specific models.

Upper Shaft Mechanism

Explains the disassembly and components of the upper shaft mechanism.

Lower Shaft Mechanism

Details the disassembly and components of the lower shaft mechanism.

Feed Mechanism (1)

Details the disassembly steps for the feed mechanism, part 1.

Feed Mechanism (2)

Details the disassembly steps for the feed mechanism, part 2.

Work Clamp Lifter Mechanism (Solenoid specifications)

Details the disassembly steps for the work clamp lifter (solenoid).

Work Clamp Lifter Mechanism (KE-432 B, 432 C)

Details the disassembly steps for the work clamp lifter on specific models.

Stepping Foot Lifter Mechanism (KE-435 B, 435 C, 436 B, 436 C)

Details the disassembly steps for the stepping foot lifter on specific models.

Thread Wiper Mechanism

Details the disassembly steps for the thread wiper mechanism.

Stepping Foot Specifications

Provides disassembly details for stepping foot specifications.

Thread Nipper Mechanism

Details the disassembly steps for the thread nipper mechanism.

Thread Take-Up Mechanism

Details the disassembly steps for the thread take-up mechanism.

Thread Trimmer Mechanism

Details the disassembly steps for the thread trimmer mechanism.

Assembly Procedures

Thread Trimmer Mechanism (1)

Instructions for assembling the thread trimmer mechanism, part 1.

Thread Nipper Mechanism

Instructions for assembling the thread nipper mechanism.

Thread Wiper Mechanism

Instructions for assembling the thread wiper mechanism.

Work Clamp Lifter Mechanism (Solenoid Specifications)

Instructions for assembling the work clamp lifter (solenoid).

Work Clamp Lifter Mechanism (KE-432 B, 432 C)

Instructions for assembling the work clamp lifter on specific models.

Thread Take-Up Mechanism

Instructions for assembling the thread take-up mechanism.

Feed Mechanism (1)

Instructions for assembling the feed mechanism, part 1.

Feed Mechanism (2)

Instructions for assembling the feed mechanism, part 2.

Upper Shaft Mechanism

Instructions for assembling the upper shaft mechanism.

Stepping Foot Mechanism (KE-435 B, 435 C, 436 B, 436 C)

Instructions for assembling the stepping foot mechanism on specific models.

Feed Mechanism (2)

Instructions for assembling the feed mechanism, part 2.

Upper Shaft Mechanism

Instructions for assembling the upper shaft mechanism.

Stepping Foot Lifter Mechanism (KE-435 B, 435 C, 436 B, 436 C)

Instructions for assembling the stepping foot lifter on specific models.

Needle Bar Mechanism

Instructions for assembling the needle bar mechanism.

Lower Shaft Mechanism

Instructions for assembling the lower shaft mechanism.

Thread Trimmer Mechanism (2)

Instructions for assembling the thread trimmer mechanism, part 2.

Shuttle Hook Mechanism

Instructions for assembling the shuttle hook mechanism.

Work Clamp Arm Mechanism (KE-430 B, 430 C, 431 B, 431 C)

Instructions for assembling the work clamp arm on specific models.

Work Clamp Arm Mechanism (KE-432 B, 432 C)

Instructions for assembling the work clamp arm on specific models.

Work Clamp Arm Mechanism (KE-433 B)

Instructions for assembling the work clamp arm on specific models.

Work Clamp Arm Mechanism (KE-434 B, 434 C, 435 B, 435 C, 436 B, 436 C, 484 C)

Instructions for assembling the work clamp arm on specific models.

Work Clamp Arm Mechanism (KE-430 B, 430 C, 431 B, 431 C)

Instructions for assembling the work clamp arm on specific models.

Work Clamp Arm Mechanism (BE-438 B, 438 C)

Instructions for assembling the work clamp arm on specific models.

Work Clamp Arm Mechanism (Applying Grease)

Guidance on applying grease to the work clamp arm mechanism.

Covers Assembly

Instructions for reassembling the machine's covers.

Auxiliary Plate Supports Assembly

Instructions for assembling auxiliary plate supports and related parts.

Adjustment Details

Adjusting Driver Needle Guard

Details the procedure for adjusting the driver needle guard.

Adjusting Needle Clearance

Explains how to adjust the clearance between the needle and rotary hook.

Adjusting Shuttle Race Thread Guide

Provides instructions for adjusting the shuttle race thread guide.

Adjusting Shuttle Hook and Bobbin Case Holder Clearance (KE-484 C)

Details adjustment for shuttle hook and bobbin case holder clearance for a specific model.

Adjusting Work Clamp Lift Amount (KE-430 B, 430 C, 431 B, 431 C, 433 B)

Details how to adjust work clamp lift amount for specific models.

Adjusting Work Clamp Lift Amount (KE-432 B, 432 C)

Details how to adjust work clamp lift amount for specific models.

Adjusting Work Clamp Lift Amount (KE-434 B, 434 C, 435 B, 435 C, 436 B, 436 C, 484 C)

Details how to adjust work clamp lift amount for specific models.

Adjusting Button Clamp Lift Amount (BE-438 B, 438 C)

Details how to adjust button clamp lift amount for specific models.

Work Clamp Pressure Adjustment (KE-432 B, 432 C)

Provides steps for adjusting work clamp pressure on specific models.

Adjusting Holding Pressure (BE-438 B, 438 C)

Details how to adjust holding pressure on specific models.

Work Clamp Closing-Distance Adjustment (KE-432 B, 432 C)

Provides steps for adjusting work clamp closing distance on specific models.

Adjusting Position of Button Holder (BE-438 B, 438 C)

Details how to adjust the button holder position on specific models.

Work Clamp Adjustment (KE-435 B, 435 C, 436 B, 436 C)

Details how to adjust work clamp on specific models.

Changing Work Clamp Lift (KE-435 B, 435 C, 436 B, 436 C)

Explains how to change the work clamp lift amount on specific models.

Adjusting Thread Wiper

Provides steps for adjusting the thread wiper mechanism.

Adjusting Thread Wiper (Pneumatic Type)

Details thread wiper adjustment for pneumatic specifications.

Adjusting Thread Wiper (Stepping Foot Specifications)

Details thread wiper adjustment for stepping foot specifications.

Adjusting Thread Wiper (KE-484 C)

Details thread wiper adjustment for the KE-484C model.

Adjusting Thread Take-Up Amount

Explains how to adjust the thread take-up amount for various models.

Adjusting Movable Knife

Details the procedure for adjusting the movable knife.

Adjusting Movable Knife and Fixed Knife (KE-430 C series)

Steps for replacing and adjusting movable/fixed knives for specific series.

Replacing Movable Knife and Fixed Knife (KE-434 B, 434 C, 435 B, 435 C, 436 B, 436 C)

Steps for replacing and adjusting movable/fixed knives for specific models.

Replacing Movable Knife and Fixed Knife (KE-484 C)

Steps for replacing and adjusting movable/fixed knives for the KE-484C model.

Adjusting Engagement of Movable Knife and Fixed Knife

Explains how to adjust the engagement between movable and fixed knives.

Adjusting Position of Thread Trimming Link Mechanism

Details the procedure for adjusting the thread trimming link mechanism.

Adjusting Backlash

Explains how to adjust backlash in gears and shafts.

Adjusting Presser Solenoid Position (Solenoid Specifications)

Details the adjustment of the presser solenoid position for solenoid specifications.

Adjusting Sensor Perceive Plate Position (Solenoid Specifications)

Details the adjustment of the sensor perceive plate for solenoid specifications.

Adjusting Home Position

Outlines the process for setting the machine's home position for X and Y axes.

Optional Parts

Two-Pedal Foot Switch

Describes the features of the two-pedal foot switch.

Two-Step Foot Switch

Describes the features of the two-step foot switch.

Solenoid Thread Wiper

Describes the solenoid thread wiper as an optional part.

Work Clamp Set QC (KE-430*)

Describes the work clamp set QC for KE-430* models.

Liquid Cooling Tank

Describes the liquid cooling tank for preventing thread breakage.

Three-Pedal Foot Switch (for pneumatic)

Describes the three-pedal foot switch for pneumatic machines.

Emergency Stop Switch

Describes the function of the emergency stop switch.

Work Clamp Plate, OT (KE-435*, 436*)

Describes the work clamp plate OT for KE-435*, 436* models.

Thread Breakage Detector (KE-436*)

Describes the thread breakage detector for KE-436* models.

2-Step Thread Tension Device (KE-436*)

Describes the 2-step thread tension device for KE-436* models.

Needle Cooler (KE-436*)

Describes the needle cooler for KE-436* models.

Air Wiper (KE- 436*)

Describes the air wiper for KE-436* models.

Programmer (KE-436*)

Describes the programmer for KE-436* models.

PS-3000 Programming Software for Electronic Pattern Sewer

Describes the PS-3000 software for creating sewing patterns.

Electric Mechanism

Precautions at the Time of Adjustment

Safety precautions to observe when working with the control box.

Components Inside Control Box and Operation Panel

Overview of components within the control box and operation panel.

Fuse Explanation

Details the types and functions of fuses used in the machine.

Connectors

Information regarding the machine's various connectors.

Connector Positions

Illustrates the locations of connectors on the control box and main circuit board.

Explanation of DIP Switches

Explains the function of DIP switches on the operation panel.

Operation Panel DIP Switches (KE-436 B, 436 C)

Details DIP switch settings for KE-436B/436C models.

DIP Switches Inside the Control Box

Explains the function of DIP switches located inside the control box.

Explanation of Memory Switches (KE-430*, 431*, 432*, 433 B, 434*, 435*, 484 C, BE-438*)

Explains memory switch settings for various machine models.

Explanation of Memory Switches (KE-436 B, 436 C)

Explains memory switch settings for KE-436B/436C models.

Memory Switches (00-0 F)

Lists memory switch functions and their settings for 00-0F range.

Memory Switches (20-2 F)

Lists memory switch functions and their settings for 20-2F range.

Memory Switches (30-3 F)

Lists memory switch functions and their settings for 30-3F range.

Setting the Work Clamp Mode

Explains how to set the work clamp mode using DIP switches and memory switches.

Light Work Clamp

Details the operation and setup of the light work clamp feature.

Checking Input Sensor and DIP Switch Input

Guides on checking input sensors and DIP switch status.

Checking Input Voltage

Details how to check the machine's input voltage.

Clearing All Memory Settings

Procedure for clearing all memory settings and resetting the machine.

Confirming Software Version

Explains how to confirm the machine's software version.

Table of Error Codes

Lists error codes, their causes, and remedies for machine malfunctions.

Troubleshooting Flowchart

A step-by-step guide to troubleshoot machine issues.

Problem Solution and Measures

Detailed solutions and measures for common machine problems.

Error Status #1: Power Indicator Not Lit

Troubleshooting steps for when the power indicator does not light.

Error Status #2: Error Code Appears on Display Window

Troubleshooting steps for errors appearing on the display window.

Error Status #8: Error Code Appears When Foot Switch Depressed

Troubleshooting steps for errors related to foot switch operation.

Error Status #9: Work Clamp Does Not Rise

Troubleshooting steps for when the work clamp fails to rise.

Error Status #10: Work Clamp Does Not Lower

Troubleshooting steps for when the work clamp fails to lower.

Error Status #11: Test Indicator Does Not Light

Troubleshooting steps for when the test indicator does not light.

Error Status #12: Feed Mechanism Does Not Move Slowly

Troubleshooting steps for slow feed mechanism movement during test sewing.

Error Status #14: Machine Does Not Operate Correctly for Set Program

Troubleshooting steps for incorrect operation based on the set program.

Error Status #15: Machine Does Not Operate During Sewing (Error E-20)

Troubleshooting steps for machine stoppage during sewing with error E-20.

Error Status #16: Error Code Appears After Machine Operates

Troubleshooting steps for error codes appearing after machine operation.

Error Status #17: Machine Cannot Produce Correct Stitches

Troubleshooting steps for when the machine fails to produce correct stitches.

Error Status #18: Thread Trimmer Does Not Operate

Troubleshooting steps for when the thread trimmer fails to operate.

Error Status #19: Thread Take-Up Lever Does Not Operate

Troubleshooting steps for when the thread take-up lever does not operate.

Error Status #20: Machine Does Not Stop With Needle at Upper Position

Troubleshooting steps for when the machine fails to stop the needle at the upper position.

Error Status #21: Programming Cannot Be Made

Troubleshooting steps for when programming functions are unavailable.

Control Circuit Block Diagram

A schematic diagram illustrating the control circuit connections.

Brother BE-438B Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandBrother
ModelBE-438B
CategorySewing Machine
LanguageEnglish

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