PFAFF

4870
Service manual
 Contents
Foreword ..................................................................................................................................................... 4
Note on the sewing machine ....................................................................................................................... 5
Specifications for hobbylock 4870 .............................................................................................................. 6
Dismantling the housing cover on PFAFF 4870 ........................................................................................... 7
Preconditions for the adjustment of hobbylock 4870 .................................................................................. 13

Needle bar height and needle penetrations

1. Adjusting the needle bar height ............................................................................................................. 14
2. Setting the needle penetration points .................................................................................................... 15

Feed mechanism
3. Sideways adjustment of the main feed dog ........................................................................................... 16
4. Adjusting the feed dogs with regard to the needle plate ......................................................................... 18
5. Adjusting the differential feed dog height ................................................................................................ 20
6. Adjusting the stitch length regulator knob and the adjustment ring for the differential feed ..................... 21
7. Setting the stitch length ........................................................................................................................ 22
8. Adjusting the main feed dog with regard to the needle plate ................................................................. 23
9. Adjusting the differential ....................................................................................................................... 24
10. Adjusting the differential feed dog ........................................................................................................ 26
11. Adjusting the presser bar height .......................................................................................................... 27

Adjusting the left-hand overedge looper

12. Height adjustment of the left-hand overedge looper .............................................................................. 28
13. Adjusting the looper-to-needle clearance ............................................................................................. 29
14. Adjusting the lateral clearance to the lett-hand needle ......................................................................... 30
15. Timing the lett-hand overedge looper .................................................................................................... 31
16. Adjusting the rear needle guard ........................................................................................................... 32

Adjusting the right-hand overedge looper

17. Adjusting the looper with regard to the looper arm ............................................................................... 33
18. Adjusting the lateral clearance to the left-hand needle ........................................................................ 34
19. Timing the right-hand overedge looper .................................................................................................. 35
20. Adjusting the clearance between the two overedge loopers .................................................................. 36
21. Final check of the right-hand overedge looper ...................................................................................... 37

Adjusting the two-thread chainstitch looper

22. Height adjustment of the two-thread chainstitch looper ........................................................................ 38
23. Adjusting the lateral clearance to chainstitch needle (A) ...................................................................... 39
24. Adjusting the looper-to-needle clearance ............................................................................................. 40
25. Timing the two-thread chainstitch looper .............................................................................................. 41
26. Adjusting the needle guard for needle A .............................................................................................. 42

Adjusting top knife and bottom blade

27. Adjusting the bottom blade .................................................................................................................. 43
28. Adjusting the top knife ......................................................................................................................... 44

Adjusting the looper thread guides

29. Adjusting the looper thread guide of the right-hand overedge looper ..................................................... 45
30. Adjusting the looper thread guide of the left-hand overedge looper ....................................................... 46
31. Adjusting the looper thread guide of the two-thread chainstitch looper ................................................. 46

2 Pfaff 4870
Repair Instructions
32. Self-test for hobbylock 4870 ................................................................................................................ 47
33. Dismantling and assembling the looper cover complete (control cam) ................................................. 53
34. Changing the micro-switch .................................................................................................................. 54
35. Changing the top knife ......................................................................................................................... 56
36. Changing the bottom blade .................................................................................................................. 57

Safety test
37. Functional test of micro-switch ............................................................................................................ 58
38. Electrical safety test ........................................................................................................................... 59
39. Electrical safety test with ABB Metrawatt M 5013 .............................................................................. 59
40. Measures required in case of inadmissible test values ........................................................................ 62

Pfaff 4870 3
Foreword
These adjustment and repair instructions are to help you carry out all repair work on the
machine quickly and correctly.
Only make corrections to an adjustment when you find it does not correspond with the settings
described here.
When checking or adjusting a machine, always proceed in the sequence described.
To facilitate this, each workstep is marked with a dot. Differing worksteps are marked with a
circle or square.
Indications such as right, lett, top, bottom, front or rear apply to the upright machine with its
controls facing you.
While re-assembling a dismantled machine it is recommended to carry out approximate
adjustments, in order to facilitate more accurate final adjustments.
If no indication is given to the contrary, the handwheel must always be turned forwards.
Before carrying out service work or when changing mechanical parts or accessories,
disconnect the machine from the mains by pulling the plug out of the socket.
After any repair work, also mechanical, an electrical safety test must be carried out.
According to the machine safety law of 24.6.58 the VDE Regulations apply as the recognized
rules for electrotechnology, and provide the basis for testing the electrical safety of technical
appliances.
In the regulations for repair, modification and testing of used electrical appliances (VDE 0701,
Edition 9.71) the necessary electrical tests for appliances are specified in paragraph 3.
After repair of our electrical appliances, a test according to VDE 0701 must be carried out.
Outside the Federal Republic of Germany there are similar regulations which are to a great
extent identical with VDE 0701.
Please also take note of items 37 to 41 of the adjustment and repair instructions. For repairs
on electrical appliances it is therefore imperative to consult an expert. After any repair work, the
function of the micro-switches must be tested.

4 Pfaff 4870
Note on the sewing machine regarding ambient conditions,
maintenance, cleaning and safety.
Ambient conditions:
The recommended ranges are:
Ambient temperature: - 10°C to 40°C (14°F to 104°F)
Air humidity: 20% to 80%
This machine is a high-quality electro-mechanical device. It is designed for household
purposes and should always be supervised when in use. Make sure that it is not subjected to:
dust, severe dampness, direct sunlight, static electricity, heat-producing objects, corrosive
chemicals or liquids.
The machine must be used on a free surface, for ventilation purposes, which is both firm and
even.

Treatment:
Always protect the machine against damage which may be caused by it being hit or dropped.

Cleaning:

Housing:
To clean the housing, use a dry, clean, soft, lint-free cloth.
To remove any stubborn dirt, use a soft cloth with a neutral cleansing agent for plastic
materials.
Please note: Do not use any insecticides or chemical products such as petrol (gas) or thin
chemicals for cleaning the housing.

Display:
If necessary, clean the display with a soft, lightly moistened cloth.

Safety:
1. The machine must be put into operation according to the indications on the specification
plate.
2. Do not place any objects in openings on the machine.
3. Do not use the sewing machine if:
- there is a visible damage,
- its function is disturbed,
- it is wet, e.g. with condensation.
4. Do not pull the mains plug out of the sockel by its cord.
5. If this appliance is used for another purpose than that intended or if it is wrongly operated,
we will not accept any Iiability for any damage caused.
6. To avoid the risk of electric shock, do not open the machine. There are no parts inside the
machine which the user can repair. This is solely the reponsibility of our qualified service statt.
7. Be sure to use only original PFAFF parts.

Pfaff 4870 5
Specifications for hobbylock 4870
Number of needles and threads: 2 needles: 5, 4 or 3-thread
1 needle: 2-thread
Needles: System EL *705 H, Thickness Nm
80 to 90
Stitch width: 3-thread: lett needle 7.2 mm
right needle 5.0 mm
4-thread: 7.2 mm
5-thread: 9.0 mm
Stitch length: adjustable within a range from 1 to 4 mm
Needle plate: Exchangeable system N or R
Lubrication: Manual
Differential feed: 1 :0.5/1 :2
Presser foot height: 5 + 1.5 mm
Stroke of edge knife: 7.5 mm
Sewing lamp: installed 15 W
Master switch: for motor and sewing lam p
Motor: 110-120 V incl. 15 W for sewing lamp
50-60 Hz 140 W
220-240 V
50-60 Hz 135 W
Top sewing speed: 1500 stitches per minute
Foot control: Electronic starter with torque acceleration
Machine dimensions: Width: 310 mm
Depth: 330 mm
Height: 320 mm
Weight: approx. 10.5 kg

Adjustment gauge for hobbylock 4870

Part No.: 29-924 993-71/290

A = Needle bar height (11.5 mm)

B = Presser foot height (5 mm)
C = Clearance between right-hand overedge looper and lett-hand needle (3.54 mm)
D = Clearance between lett-hand overedge looper and lett-hand needle (3.04 mm)
E = Clearance between right-hand overedge looper and looper lever (1.0 mm)
F = Clearance between two-thread chainstitch looper and needle (2.04 mm)

6 Pfaff 4870
Dismantling the housing cover on PFAFF 4870
- Pull the mains plug out ot the sewing machine.
- Loosen retaining screw 1 (fig. 1).
- Remove the complete sewing toot.
- Remove the needles.
- Remove detachable work support / free arm by pressing it to the front and then, as indicated
by the arrow, to the left.
- Loosen retaining screws 2 (fig. 2).
- Remove the complete reel stand upwards.
- Set the regulating lever tor the presser foot pressure at position ”1” (fig. 3).
- Use the bulb exchange tool to turn screw 3 clockwise until the slot ot the screw is in a
vertical position.
- Remove the face cover by turning it as indicated by the arrow (fig. 4).

Pfaff 4870 7
- Tilt the machine over backwards.
- Loosen retaining screw 4 (fig. 5).
- Remove the free arm cover to the left.
- Unscrew retaining screw 5 (fig. 6).
- Remove the cover of the bottom blade.
- Remove the accessory box.
- Unscrew retaining screws 6 with their washers (fig. 7).
- Remove the cover to the left.
- Unscrew retaining screws 7 with their washers (fig. 8).
- Remove the transtormer cover.

8 Pfaff 4870
- Remove the carrying handle to the top.
- Remove retaining screws 8 (fig. 9).
- Swivel the arm cover with the carrying handle to the top as indicated by the arrow and
remove it by pressing it downwards (fig. 10).
- Unscrew retaining screws 9 (fig. 11).
- Remove the disengaging knob for the fop knite, the disengaging knob tor the right-hand
overedge looper and the looper thread guide.
- Swivel the looper compartment to the right as tar as it will go and then downwards (fig. 12).
- Remove retaining screws 10.
- Remove the looper compartment.
- Remove the looper thread guide of the two-thread chainstitch looper.
- Remove the looper thread guide of the right-hand overedge looper.

Pfaff 4870 9
- Turn the handwheel until the two marks face each other.
- Unscrew retaining screws 11 (fig. 13).
- Slightly lift the cover and remove it.
- Pull off the regulating lever tor the presser foot pressure (fig. 14).
- Remove circlip 12 (fig. 15).
- Disengage the connecting rod.
- Unscrew retaining screws 13 (fig. 16).

10 Pfaff 4870
- Unscrew retaining screws 14 (fig. 17).
- Pull off connection cables 15 and 16 from the face plate (fig. 18).
- Remove the face plate.
- Loosen retaining screw 17 and unscrew retaining screw 18 (fig. 19).
- Pull off the lifting lever and remove the pedestal cover (fig. 20).

Pfaff 4870 11
- Pinch the internal mains connection cables (fig. 21).
- Pull the motor cable off to the top.
- Unscrew retaining screw 19 of the baseplate (fig. 22).
- Remove the machine housing from the baseplate.

12 Pfaff 4870
Preconditions for the adjustment of hobbylock 4870
Precondition 1:

On the following eccentrics the first screw must be on the surface of the main shaft in normal
direction of rotation:

On driving eccentric 1 for the needle bar

On lifting eccentric 2
On driving eccentric 3
On driving eccentric 4 for the ellipsoidai movement of the two-thread chainstitch looper

Precondition 2:
With the needle in its lowest position the left-hand overedge looper must be in the left-hand
point of reversal and the right-hand looper point must have moved down to a position 5 mm
below the needle plate.
To this end the screws of the left-hand eccentric 5 and the right-hand eccentric 6 for the looper
drives must be loosened. The eccentrics must be turned to the correct position and the
screws must be
retightened.

Note:
Now the drive eccentric for the two-thread chainstitch looper is also in basic position since
eccentric 5 is a double eccentric.
With the needle at its lowest position, the two-thread chainstitch looper is at its right point of
reversal.

Pfaff 4870 13
Needle bar height and needle penetrations

1. Adjusting the needle bar height

Requirement:
With needle bar 1 in its top dead center, the vertical clearance between overedge needle B and
the top edge of the needle plate must be 11.5 mm.

Check:
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction of rotation until needle bar 1 is in its top dead
center (t.d.c.) (fig. 1).
- Insert overedge needle B. The needle must be pushed as far as it will go into needle holder 2.
- Check the needle bar height by means of the adjustment gauge (dimension A).

Adjustment:
- Remove the face cover in accordance with the adjustment and repair instructions.
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until needle bar 1 has reached its top f\
dead center (t.d.c.).
- Loosen screw 3 of the needle bar joint just slightly (fig. 2).
- Shift needle bar 1 in height - making sure not to twist it - until the needle rests on the
adjustment gauge (dimension A).
- Tighten screw 3.

Cross-check:
- Check the clearance.
The needle holder must be parailel to the machine housing.

14 Pfaff 4870
2. Setting the needle penetration points
Requirement:
With the needles in their bottom dead centers, needle penetration points 4 must be exactly in
the center of the needle plate and to the front the distance to the needle plate must be 1 mm
(fig. 3).

Check:
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until the needle bar is in its bottom
dead center.
Carry out a visual check.

Adjustment:
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until the needle bar is in its bottom dead
center.
- Loosen the two screws 5 of the needle plate base (fig. 4).
- Shift the needle plate base in such away that the needles are centered with regard to the
needle plate and there is a clearance of 1 mm to the front.
- Tighten the two screws 5.

Cross-check:
- As described under ”Requirement”.

Pfaff 4870 15
Feed mechanism

3. Sideways adjustment of the main feed dog

Requirement:
The main feed dog and the differential teed dog must be flush on the left-hand side (fig. 5).

Check:
- Loosen screw 1 of the sewing foot holder (fig. 6).
- Remove sewing foot 2.
- Adjust maximum stitch length and maximum differential feed.
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction ot rotation and carry out a visual check.

Note:
This adjustment is to be carried out only in case compelling reasons exist.

Adjustment:
- Remove the needle plate.
- Loosen screw 3 of the main feed dog and move it until both feed dogs are flush on the
lefthand side (fig. 7).
- Tighten screws 3.

Cross-check:
- Fit the needle plate.
- Carry out a visual check.
- With the maximum stitch length of the main and the differential feed dog set, make sure that
there is no contact between the two feed dogs.

16 Pfaff 4870
Pfaff 4870 17
4. Adjusting the feed dogs with regard to the needle plate
Requirement:
On the left-hand side the main and the differential feed dog must be the same distance to the
needle plate (fig. 5).

Check:
- Loosen screw 1 of the needle foot holder (fig. 6).
- Remove needle foot holder 2.
- Set maximum stitch length and maximum differential feed.
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation whilst carrying out a visual check.

Note:
This adjustment is to be carried out only if compelling reasans exist.

Adjustment:
- Remove the housing cover in accordance with the adjustment and repair instructions.
- Loosen screws 4 of the lifting and driving eccentric (fig. 8).
- Loosen screws 5 of the fixing collar.
- Loosen screws 6 of the bush.
- Loosen screws 7 on the driving lever of the main fe ed dog carrier.
- Loosen screws 8 on the driving lever of the differential feed dog carrier.
- Shift both feed dog carriers laterally until the clearance to the needle plate is 0.1 to 0.2 mm.
- Tighten screws 6 of the bush.
- Move the lifting and driving eccentric to the right and set it against the feed dog carrier.
- Tighten both screws 4.
- Push the fixing collar to the left and set it against the feed dog carrier.
- Tighten both screws 5 of the fixing collar.
- Tighten screws 7 and 8 on the driving lever.

Cross-check:
- Check for smooth running of the machine with maximum stitch length and maximum
differential feed set.

18 Pfaff 4870
Pfaff 4870 19
5. Adjusting the differential feed dog height
Requirement:
Main feed dog 9 and differential feed dog 10 must have the same feed dog height.

Check:
- Set maximum stitch length and maximum differential feed.
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until the rising main feed dog is flush
with
- the top surface of the needle plate (fig. 9).
- Carry out a visual check.

Adjustment:
- Loosen screw 11 of the differential feed dog.
- Move the differential feed dog until it is flush with the top surface of the needle plate.
- Tighten screw 11 of the differential feed dog.

Cross-check:
- Carry out a visual check.

20 Pfaff 4870
6. Adjusting the stitch length regulator knob and the adjustment
ring for the differential feed
Requirement:
With the stitch length regulator knob set at minimum stitch length the marks on the gears must
face each other as illustrated in fig. 10.
Check:
- Set the stitch length regulator knob at minimum stitch length.
- Carry out a visual check.

Adjustment:
- Remove the circlip.
- Remove the washer and the lock washer.
- Remove the small gear 12.
- Turn the stitch length regulator knob to minimum stitch length.
- Turn the gears in such away that the marks are in the correct positions.
- Insert the small gear 12.
- Fit the lock washer and the washer.
- Fit the circlip.

Cross-check:
- As described under ”Requirement.

Pfaff 4870 21
7. Setting the stitch length
Requirement:
With the stitch length regulator knob set at ”4" and the adjustment ring for the differential feed
at ”N”, the machine must sew a 4 mm long stitch.

Check:
- Set the stitch length regulator knob at maximum stitch length.
- Set the adjustment ring for the differential feed at ”N”
- Place a piece of fabric under the sewing foot and check the stitch length.

Adjustment:
- Loosen screws 15 (fig, 11).
- Turn the stitch length regulator knob just a little bit.
- Tighten screws 15.
- Check the stitch length.
- Keep on repeating the procedure until the adjustment is correct.

Cross-check:
As described under ”Requirement”.

22 Pfaff 4870
8. Adjusting the main feed dog with regard to the needle plate

Requirement:
When the maximum stitch length is set and the rising main feed dog is flush with the needle
plate, the distance to the rear edge of the needle plate must be 5.3 mm (fig. 12).

Check:
- Set the stitch length regulator knob at ”4".
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction of rotation until the main feed dog is flush with the
needle plate.
- Check the distance to the rear edge of the needle plate.

Adjustment:
- Set the stitch length regulator knob at ”4".
- Loosen screws 7 on the driving lever of the main feed dog carrier (fig. 13).
- Re-position the driving lever until the distance between the main feed dog and the rear edge
of the needle plate IS 5.3 mm.
- Tighten screws 7 on the driving lever of the main feed dog carrier.

Cross-check:
As described under ”Requirement”.

Pfaff 4870 23
9. Adjusting the differential
Requirement:
When the marks are opposite each other as illustrated in fig. 14, the feed length of both feed
dogs must be equal.

Check:
- Set maximum stitch length.
- Turn the adjustment ring for the differential in such away that the two marks are opposite
each other.
- Mark both feed dog carriers (fig. 15).
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction ot rotation making sure that both feed dog
carriers have the same feed length.

Adjustment:
- Turn the adjustment ring for the differential in such away that the two marks are opposite
each other.
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction of rotation making sure that both feed dog
carriers have the same feed length.
- In case ot different feed lengths turn the adjustment ring for the differential feed just slightly
until the feed lengths are equal.
- Loosen screws 16 ot the differential driving crank (fig. 16).
- Turn the adjustment ring tor the differential in such away that the two marks are opposite
each other (fig. 14).
- Tighten screws 16 ot the differential driving crank (fig. 16).

Check:
- As described under ”Requirement”.

24 Pfaff 4870
Pfaff 4870 25
10. Adjusting the differential feed dog
Requirement:
When in position ”2" and with maximum stitch length set the rising differential feed dog is flush
with the needle plate, the distance to the main feed dog must be 5.3 mm (fig. 17).

Check:
- Set the stitch length regulator knob at ”4".
- Set the adjustment ring for the the differential feed at ”2".
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until main and differential feed dog are
flush with the needle plate.
- Check the distance to the main feed dog.

Adjustment:
- Loosen screws 8 at the driving lever of the differential feed dog lever (fig. 13).
- Re-position the driving lever until there is a clearance of 5.3 mm between differential and
main feed dog.
- Tighten screws 8 on the driving lever of the differential feed dog lever.

Cross-check:
As described under ”Requirement”.

26 Pfaff 4870
11. Adjusting the presser bar height
Requirement:
With the presser bar lifter raised there must be a clearance of 5 mm between the needle plate
and the presser foot shoe.

Check:
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction of rotation until the needle bar is at its lowest
point.
- With the presser bar lifter raised push the adjustment gauge under the presser foot
according to fig. 18.
- Check the presser bar height (dimension B).

Adjustment:
- Remove the housing cover in accordance with the adjustment and repair instructions.
- Loosen screw 17 of the presser bar mounting (fig. 19).
- Re-position the presser bar lifter in such away that the presser foot shoe rests on the
adjustment gauge without any play.
- Tighten screw 17 just slightly.
- Lower presser foot 18 and align the cutouts of the presser foot with the ones in needle plate
19 by turning the presser bar (fig. 20).
- Tighten screw 17 (fig. 19).

Cross-check:
- As described under ”Requirement”.

Pfaff 4870 27
Adjusting the left-hand overedge looper

12. Height adjustment of the left-hand overedge looper

Requirement:
The vertical distance between looper point and looper driving shaft must be 68.5 mm. This
corresponds to a distance of 5.5 mm between looper and looper lever.

Check:
- Remove the housing cover in accordance with the adjustment and repair instructions.
- Unscrew the retaining screw of the
needle guard and remove the latter.
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until the looper point has reached its left
point of reversal.
- In this position the vertical distance between looper point and looper driving shaft must be
68.5 mm.

Adjustment:
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until the looper point has reached its left
point of reversal.
- Loosen screw 1 of the overedge looper.
- Re-position looper 2 in such away that it is at a vertical distance of 68.5 mm to the looper
driving shaft.
- Tighten screw 1 of the overedge looper.

Cross-check:
As described under ”Requirement”.

28 Pfaff 4870
13. Adjusting the looper-to-needle clearance
Requirement:
When the looper point has reached the scarf of the needle during its rightwards movement, the
looper-to-needle clearance must be O to 0.1 mm (fig. 22).

Note:
For all the tollowing worksteps a new needle ot system EL *705 Nm 90 must be used.

Check:
- Remove the needle plate.
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until the looper point has reached the
scarf of the right-hand needle (C) during its rightwards movement.
- Check the distance between looper point and needle.

Adjustment:
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until the looper point has reached the
scarf of the right-hand needle 4 during its rightwards movement.
- Loosen screw 5 ot the looper lever (fig. 23).
- Adjust the correct looper-to-needle clearance by moving the looper lever.
- Tighten screw 5 of the looper lever.

Cross-check:
- As described under ”Requirement”.

Check:
- Insert the lett-hand needle (8).
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until the looper point has reached the
scarf of the left-hand needle (8) during its rightwards movement (fig. 22).
- Check the clearance between looper and left-hand needle (8).

Adjustment:
- Loosen screw 3 ot needle bar 1 just a little bit (fig. 2).
- Adjust the correct clearance between needle 8 and looper by turning the needle bar.
- Tighten screw 3 ot needle bar 1 (fig. 2).

Cross-check:
- As described under ”Check”.

Pfaff 4870 29
14. Adjusting the lateral clearance to the lett-hand needle
Requirement:
When left-hand overedge looper 2 is at its left point of reversal there must be a distance of 3.04
mm between it and needle B (fig. 24).

Check:
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until the looper has reached its left point
of reversal.
- Check the required distance by means of the adjustment gauge (dimension D).

Note:
When loosening screw 5, the looper-to-needle clearance may be altered. Loosen screw 5 of
the 100-per lever just slightly (fig. 23).

Adjustment:
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until the looper has reached its left point
of reversal.
- Loosen screw 5 of the looper lever just slightly.
- Adjust the lateral clearance of 3.04 mm by moving the looper lever (fig. 24).
- Tighten screw 5 of the looper lever (fig. 23).
Cross-check:
- As described under ”Check”.
- After this adjustment the looper-to-needle clearance must be rechecked and re-adjusted
according to section 13 of the adjustment and repair instructions.

30 Pfaff 4870
15. Timing the lett-hand overedge looper
Requirement:
When during its rightwards movement looper point 2 is behind needle B or C, the clearance
between the top edge of the needle eye and the looper point must be 1.6 mm (fig. 25).

Check:
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until looper point 2 has reached a
position exactly opposite the center line of needle C during its rightwards movement.
- Check for correct distance of 1.6 mm between top edge of needle eye and hook point 2.

Adjustment:
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until looper point 2 has reached a
position exactly opposite the center line of needle Cduring its rightwards movement.
- Loosen the two screws 6 of the driving eccentric (fig. 26).
- Turn the driving eccentric in such away that a distance of 1.6 mm between the top edge of
the needle eye and hook point 2 is obtained.
- Tighten bot h screws 6 of the driving eccentric.

Check:
- As described under ”Requirement”.

Pfaff 4870 31
16. Adjusting the rear needle guard
Requirement:
When the looper point ot left-hand overedge looper 2, during its rightwards movement, has
reached a position exactly opposite the center line of needle B or C, the needles must just be
in contact with rear needle guard 3 (fig. 27 and 27a).

Check:
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until looper point 2 has reached a
position exactly behind needle C during its rightwards movement.
- Check the clearance.

Adjustment:
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until looper point 2 has reached a
position exactly behind needle C during its rightwards movement.
- Loosen screw 7 (fig. 28).
- Re-position the needle guard mounting until the rear needle guard is just in contact with the
needle (fig. 27 a).
- Tighten screw 7 (fig. 28).

Note:
Now the front needle guard has been adjusted as weil.

Check:
- As described under ”Requirement”.

32 Pfaff 4870
Adjusting the right-hand overedge looper

17. Adjusting the looper with regard to the looper arm

Requirement:
The clearance between right-hand overedge looper 1 and looper lever 2 must be 1.0 mm
(distance E) (fig. 29).

Check:
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until the descending looper point 1 has
reached roughly needle plate level.
- Check for correct clearance by means of the adjustment gauge (distance E).

Adjustment:
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until the descending looper point 1
has reached roughly needle plate level.
- Loosen screw 3.
- Move looper 1 in such away that the clearance between the right looper edge and the looper
lever is 1.0 mm.
- Slightly tighten screw 3.

Cross-check:
- As described under ”Requirement”.

Note:
- Set the slip gauge onto the right-hand looper lever 2.
- rush the slide of slip gauge 8 to the left until the triangle symbols are opposite each other.
The point of the slide must engage in the eye of the looper (fig. 30).

Pfaff 4870 33
18. Adjusting the lateral clearance to the left-hand needle

Requirement:
With the right-hand looper at its left point of reversal the clearance between looper eye and left-
hand needle must be 3.54 mm (fig. 31).

Check:
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until the right-hand looper is at its left
point of reversal.
- Check the correct clearance by means of the adjustment gauge (distance C).

Adjustment:
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until the right-hand looper is at its left
point of reversal.
- Loosen retaining screws 4 just a little bit (fig. 32).
- Move the looper driving arm 5 until there is a clearance of 3.54 mm between the center line
of the needle eye and the left-hand needle (B).
- Tighten retaining screws 4.

Cross-check:
- As described under ”Requirement”.
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until the needles are in the lowest
position.
- Turn the looper disengaging knob as far as it will go and check whether engaging and
disengaging of the right-hand overedge looper works correctly (fig. 33).

Note:
Make sure that the driving shaft of the right-hand looper has no lengthwise play.

34 Pfaff 4870
19. Timing the right-hand overedge looper
Requirement:
- When both loopers are crossing, as illustrated in fig. 34, the clearance between the point of
right-hand looper 1 and the head of left-hand looper 2 must be within a range ot 0.2 to 0.5 mm.

Check:
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until the rising right-hand looper 1 is
behind left-hand looper 2.
- Check for clearance of 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm between the point of right-hand looper 1 and the
head of left-hand looper 2.

Adjustment:
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until the rising right-hand looper 1 is
behind left-hand looper 2.
- Loosen screws 6 of the driving eccentric (fig. 35).
- Turn the driving eccentric in such away that the clearance of 0.2 to 0.5 mm between the
point of the right-hand looper 1 and the head of the letf-hand looper 2 is obtained (fig. 34).
- Tighten the screws 6 of the driving eccentric (fig. 35).

Cross-check:
- As described under ”Requirement”.

Pfaff 4870 35
20. Adjusting the clearance between the two overedge loopers
Requirement:
When both loopers are crossing (fig. 34), the clearance between the point of the right-hand
looper and the back of the left-hand looper must be 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm.

Check:
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction of rotation until the rising right-hand looper 1 is
behind left-hand looper 2.
- Check for clearance ot 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm between the point ot the right-hand looper 1 and
the back ot left-hand looper 2.

Adjustment:
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction ot rotation until the rising right-hand looper 1 is
behind left-hand looper 2.
- Loosen screw 3 just slightly (fig. 29).
- Pull right-hand looper 1 to the front until the clearance between its point and the back of the
left-hand looper is 0.1 to 0.2 mm (fig. 34).
- Tighten screw 3 (fig. 29).

Cross-check:
- As described under ”Requirement”.

36 Pfaff 4870
21. Final check of the right-hand overedge looper
Requirement 1:
Turn the handwheel against the normal direction of rotation making sure that the right-hand
overedge looper 1 does not touch the two needles (8 and C). There must be a clearance of 0.1
mm to 0.2 mm

Check:
- As described under ”Requirement” 1.

Requirement 2:
With the presser bar lifter raised right-hand overedge looper 1 must not touch chaining finger 8.
There must be a clearance of at least 0.3 mm (fig. 37).

Cross-check:
- Raise the presser foot.
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction of rotation until right-hand overedge looper 1 has
reached its left point of reversal.
- Check for correct clearance.

Pfaff 4870 37
Adjusting the two-thread chainstitch looper

22. Height adjustment of the two-thread chainstitch looper

Requirement:
The vertical clearance between looper point and looper driving shaft must be 64 mm (fig. 38).
This corresponds with the clearance between looper and looper lever of 0.7 mm (fig. 39).

Check:
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction of rotation until the looper point has reached its
right point of reversal.
- In this position the vertical clearance between looper point and looper driving shaft must be
64 mm.
- Press the positioning lever (fig.40) of the two-thread chainstitch looper down and check for
clearance of 0.7 mm.

Adjustment:
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction of rotation until the looper point has reached its
right point of reversal.
- Press the positioning lever of the two-thread chainstitch looper down.
- Loosen screw 1 of the two-thread chainstitch looper.
- Re-position the looper in such away that the clearance between two-thread chainstitch
looper and looper lever is 0.7 mm (fig. 39).
- Tighten screw 1 of the two-thread chainstitch looper.

Cross-check:
- As described under ”Requirement”.

38 Pfaff 4870
23. Adjusting the lateral clearance to chainstitch needle (A)
Requirement:
When two-thread chainstitch looper 2 is at its right point of reversal, it must have a clearance
of 2.04 mm to needle A (fig. 41).

Check:
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction of rotation until two-thread chainstitch looper 2 is
at its right point of reversal.
- Check the clearance by means of the adjustment gauge (distance F).

Adjustment:
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction of rotation until two-thread chainstitch looper 2 is
at its right point of reversal.
- Loosen screw 3 (fig. 42).
- Adjust the clearance of 2.04 mm by means of the adjustment gauge (distance F).
- Tighten screw 3 lightly.

Cross-check:
- As described under ”Requirement”.

Pfaff 4870 39
24. Adjusting the looper-to-needle clearance
Requirement:
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction of rotation until the looper point of two-thread
chainstitch looper 2, coming from the right, is exactly in the scarf of needle (A).
- Check clearance between looper point and needle.

Adjustment:
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction of rotation until the looper point of two-thread
chainstitch looper 2, coming from the right, is exactly in ,the scarf of needle (A).
- Loosen screw 3 of the looper lever just lightly (fig. 42).
- Adjust the looper-to-needle clearance by moving the looper lever.
- Tighten screw 3 of the looper lever.

Cross-check:
- As described under ”Requirement”.
- After this adjustment the lateral clearance between two-thread chainstitch looper and needle
must be checked once again and, if necessary, re-adjusted according to section 23 of the
adjustment and repair instructions.

Note:
When the needle squeezes itself in between 100 per thread and looper, it is slightly bent.

40 Pfaff 4870
25. Timing the two-thread chainstitch looper
Requirement:
When two-thread chainstitch looper 2 moves from its lett point of reversal to the right and the
looper eye has reached the center line of the needle, the needle eye must be exactly opposite
the looper eye (fig. 44).

Check:
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction of rotation until the two-thread chainstitch looper
has moved from its left point of reversal to the right and the looper eye has reached the
center line of the needle.
- Carry out a visual check.

Note:
- Since both the left overedge looper and the two-thread chainstitch looper are driven by the
same driving eccentric, it is not possible to carry out the timing of the two-thread chainstitch
looper on driving eccentric 3 (see preconditions for the adjustment of 4870).

Adjustment:
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction of rotation until the two-thread chainstitch looper
has moved from its lett point of reversal to the right and the looper eye has reached the
center line of the needle.
- Loosen screw 1 (fig. 38).
- Adjust the height of the looper in such away that the looper eye is exactly opposite the needle
eye (fig. 44).
- Tighten screw 1 (fig.38).

Check:
- As described under ”Requirement”.
- Atter this adjustment check, and if necessary, re-adjust according to sections 23 and 24 of
the adjustment and repair instructions.

Pfaff 4870 41
26. Adjusting the needle guard for needle A
Requirement:
- With the needle in its lowest position there must be a clearance ot 0.1 to 0.2 mm between
needle A and the needle guard (fig. 45).

Check:
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction of rotation until the needle bar is in its lowest
position.
- Carry out a visual check.

Adjustment:
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction of rotation until the needle bar is in its lowest
position.
- Loosen screw 1 (fig. 46).
- Move needle guard 2 so that there is a clearance of 0.1 to 0.2 mm between needle guard 2
and needle A (fig. 45).
- Tighten screw 1 (fig. 46).

Cross-check:
- As described under ”Requirement”.

42 Pfaff 4870
Adjusting top knife and bottom blade

27. Adjusting the bottom blade

Requirement:
The trimming edge of the bottom blade must be flush with the top surface of the needle plate.

Check:
- Carry out a visual check.

Adjustment:
- Loosen screw 1 (fig. 47).
- Move the bottom blade until the trimming edge of the bottom blade is flush with the top sur
face of needle plate 3.
- Tighten screw 1.

Crosscheck:
- As described under ”Requirement”.

Pfaff 4870 43
28. Adjusting the top knife
Requirement:
With the top knife in its lowest position, top knife and bottom blade must overlap by 0.5 to 1
mm (fig. 48).

Check:
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction of rotation until the top knife is in its lowest
position.
- Check for overlap of top knife and bottom blade.

Adjustment:
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction of rotation until the top knife is in its lowest
position.
- Loosen screw 1.
- Set the correct amount of overlap between top knife and bottom blade by moving the top
knife.
- Tighten screw 1.

Cross-check:
- As described under ”Check”

44 Pfaff 4870
Adjusting the looper thread guides

29. Adjusting the looper thread guide of the right-hand overedge

looper

Requirement:
With the right-hand overedge looper at its left point of reversal there must be a clearance of
37 mm between looper thread guide 1 and the baseplate (fig. 49).

Adjustment:
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction of rotation until the right-hand overedge looper is
at its left point of reversal.
- Loosen screw 2.
- Move looper thread guide 1 in order to adjust a clearance of 37 mm between it and the
baseplate.
- Tighten screw 2.
Cross-check:
- As described under ”Requirement”.

Pfaff 4870 45
30. Adjusting the looper thread guide of the left-hand overedge
looper
Requirement:
With the left-hand overedge looper at its left point ot reversal, there must be a clearance ot 39
mm between looper thread guide 3 and the baseplate (fig. 50).
Adjustment:
- Turn the handwheel in the normal direction ot rotation until the left-hand overedge looper is at
its right point ot reversal.
- Loosen screw 4.
- Move looper thread guide 3 in order to adjust a clearance of 39 mm between it and the
baseplate.
- Tighten screw 4.

Cross-check:
- As described under ”Requirement”.

31. Adjusting the looper thread guide of the two-thread chainstitch

looper
Requirement:
With the two-thread chainstitch looper at its left point of reversal, there must be a clearance of
46 mm between looper thread guide 5 and
the baseplate (fig. 51).

Adjustment:
- Turn the handwheel in its normal direction of rotation until the two-thread chainstitch looper is
at its left point ot reversal.
- Loosen screw
- Move the looper thread guide 5 in order to adjust a clearance of 46 mm between it and the
baseplate.
- Tighten screw 6.

Cross-check:
- As described under ”Requirement”.
46 Pfaff 4870
Repair Instructions

32. Self-test for hobbylock 4870

The self-test provides the mechanic with a simple and quick means of checking the machine.
Sequential faults are not detected.
Faults are only detected if the machine is mechanically in order.
The self-test is carried out sequentially; changing the test sequence is not possible. However,
the program can be stopped any time by switching the machine off. The duration of the self-
test is approximately 40 sec.
1. LCD test (visual check of display).
2. LED-display test (visual check of LED-display).
3. Key test (checking the functions of keys and micro-switches)
4. Motor test

Test sequence:
Switch off the master switch.
Press key ”M” and the key for speed pre-selection (fig. 1), at the same time press the master
switch.

Pfaff 4870 47
1. The LCD test starts automatically after the tollowing display reading:

Checking the liquid crystal display:

All 48 fields of the liquid crystal display are fully activated (fig. 2). Check for missing fields.

The 48 programrned characters of the LCD are consecutively displayed

48 Pfaff 4870
2. The LED-display test starts automatically after the following display reading

Checking the LEDs:

The 10 LEDs light up one after another from the left to the right (fig. 4). Carry out a visual
check.

Checking the LEDs:

The 6 LEDs light up one after another from the left to the right (fig. 5). Carry out a visual check.

If faults are detected during checks 1 or 2, the electronic control board must be replaced
completely.

Pfaff 4870 49
3. Key test (Checking the functions of the keys and the micro-switches) The following reading
appears on the display (fig. 6):

Checking the functions of the keys and the micro-switches

Check the following keys and micro-switches (fig. 7):

Foot control
Photo-Sensor
Display flashes when turning the handwheel
Spare Key
Micro Switch for looper

Key for speed pre-selection

M-Key
Arrow key

Program key

In Order to stop the test, press the foot control for at least 3 sec.
Indication showing key or micro - switch is ”off”
Indication showing key or micro - switch is ”on”

Note: In case keys or micro-switches are out of order, exhange electronic control board
complete or the micro-switch on the looper cover or photo-sensor.

50 Pfaff 4870
4. Motor test
The following reading appears on the display (fig. 8):

Press the foot control.

Press the program key.
Do not let the foot control go until the motor test has been completed. The motor test starts
automatically.

Additional functions at the keys shown in fig. 9:

start: Starting or repeating the motor test.
stop: Stopping the motor test.
end: End at motor test, back to the normal sewing program.
CNT-clr. Resetting the number at tests performed back to ”0".

Pfaff 4870 51
If the motor does not run, replace parts in the following order:

1. Motor
2. Motor control
3. Connection cable
4. Electronic controi board

Sequence diagram of the motor test (fig. 10):

1.25 seconds acceleration to full speed
2.5 seconds full speed
1.25 seconds slowing down and standstill
2.5 seconds pause

52 Pfaff 4870
33. Dismantling and assembling the looper cover complete
(control cam)
Dismantling:
- Unscrew the two retaining screws 1 (tig. 11).
- Remove the complete looper cover.
- Remove circlip 2.
- Pull axis 3 to the left until it is possible to take out control Gam 4 and pressure spring 5.

Assembling:
- Insert pressure spring 5 into the new controi Gam 4.
- Insert the controi Gam and the pressure spring into the cutout in the looper cover.
- Shift axis 3 to the right.
- Insert circlip 2.
- Fit the looper cover with the two retaining screws 1 to the baseplate and tighten lightly.
- Betore tightening screws 1 align the looper cover parallel to the baseplate making sure that
there is only minimum clearance between looper cover and the front machine cover.
- Make sure that the looper cover can be closed with ease.
- Tighten the two retaining screws 1 firmly.

Note:
Carry out function test according to the adjustment and repair instructions.

Pfaff 4870 53
34. Changing the micro-switch
Dismantling:
- Remove the baseplate according to the adjustment instructions.
- Unscrew retaining screws 1 (fig. 12).
- Remove micro-switch housing 2 upwards.
- Disconnect the micro-switch cable at the motor control (fig. 13).
- Push bot h clamps 3 of the micro-switch housing 2 aside and remove the housing cover
(fig. 14).
- Remove the micro-switch complete with the cable.

Fitting:
- Betore inserting the micro-switch into the micro-switch housing, check whether there is
spring pressure on the pressure piece (fig. 15).
It this is not the case, insert torsion spring 5 into the lower cutout 6.
- Insert the micro-switch inta the micro-switch housing.
- Fit the housing cover and press it down until you hear clamps 3 snap into place (fig. 14).

Note: Check the functions of the micro-switches.

- Insert micro-switch housing 2.

- Make sure that the hack on the micro-switch housing is in the cutout of the baseplate.
- Push the micro-switch housing to the front as far as it will go.
- Fasten the micro-switch housing with screw 1.
- Connect the cable of the micro-switch to the motor control (fig. 13).
- Place the cable under the cable hack.

Note:
On completion of the machine assembly carry out the function test according to the
adjustment and repair instructions.

54 Pfaff 4870
Pfaff 4870 55
35. Changing the top knife
Dismantling:
- Disconnect the mains plug from the socket.
- Unscrew retaining screw 1 (fig. 16).
- Remove the top knife.

Fitting:
- Insert the new top knife (fig. 17).
- Slightly tighten retaining screw 1.
- Adjust the top knite according to the adjustment and repair instructions.

56 Pfaff 4870
36. Changing the bottom blade

Dismalting
- Set the seam width regulator at ”3".
- Remove the sewing foot and the needle plate.
- Turn the handwheel to bring the needles to their highest position.
- Disengage the top knite.
- Loosen retaining screw 2 (fig. 18).
- Take out the bottom blade.

Fitting:
- Fit the new bottom blade between bottom blade carrier and top knife (fig. 19).
- Place the pressure piece onto the hole in the bottom blade in such a way that the Ionger part
with the bevel points in the direction of the rear of the machine.
- Slightly tighten retaining screw 2.
- Fit the needle plate.
- Adjust the bottom blade in accordance with the adjustment and repair instructions.

Pfaff 4870 57
Safety test

37. Functional test of micro-switch

After every repair a functional test of the micro-switch must be carried out.

- Connect the foot control.

- Switch on the master switch.
- Open the looper cover (fig. 20).
- The machine’s power supply is now interrupted.
- In the display appears the message: ”Please close looper cover.”
- In addition the LEDs of the speed pre-selection are flashing.
- Actuate the foot control.
- During this test the machine must not start running.
- Close the looper cover.

Note:
With the looper cover opened the machine must not start running.

58 Pfaff 4870
Safety test

38. Electrical safety test

According to the German law of safe machine operation of 24 June, 1986, the VDE regulations
are regarded as the official rules in electronics and are the basis for the regulations for testing
electrical safety of technical devices.
The required electrical tests are established in the regulations for repair, modification and
testing of used electrical appliances (VDE 0701 issue 10.86) par. 4.
We are obliged to perform a test in accordance with VDE 0701 on every electrical
appliance after repair.
In other European countries there are similar regulations in force which are largely identical
with the requirements of VDE 0701.

39. Electrical safety test with ABB Metrawatt M 5013

I) Mains voltage test: Volt = V

- For all following tests insert the plug of ASS Metrawatt M 5013 into the grounded mains
socket.
- Set knob for measuring range at ”250 V” (fig. 21).
If there is mains voltage, the LCD display shows the respective value (230 V +/- 10%).
- Touch contact field, which is located a little to the right just below the knob for the measuring
range, with your finger, thus checking the ground lead of the mains.
Signal lamp ”PE” just above the contact field will light up only in case the ground lead is out
of order.
- Insert the plug of the sewing machine into the mains socket of ASS Metrawatt M 5013.
- Run the machine.
- Meter reading: 230 V +/- 10%
- Measuring appliance M 5013 can only be used with mains voltages ranging from 207 V to
253 V (230 V +/- 10%).
II) Appliance current test: Ampere = A
- The plug of the sewing machine remains in the mains socket.
- Set the knob for the measuring range at 16 A (fig. 22).
- Run the machine.
- Meter reading: 0.5 A maximum.
III) Insulation resistance: M Ohm = M
- Insert the plug of the sewing machine in the tester socket.
- Use the clamp to attach the test lead of testing appliance M 5013 to the presser bar.
- Set the knob for the measuring range at ”20 M Ohm” (fig. 23).
- Meter reading: minimum 2 M Ohm
- With meter readings higher than 20 M Ohm, appliance M 5013 displays the figure 1!
In these cases, the remark ”Insulation resistance higher than 20 M Ohm” must be recorded
in the testing certificate.
IV) Simulated leakage current: Milliampere = mA
- Sewing machine plug remains in tester socket.
- Use clamp to attach test lead of testing appliance M 5013 to presser bar.
- Set knob for measuring range at ”20 mA” (fig. 24).
- Meter reading: 0.50 mA maximum.

Pfaff 4870 59
60 Pfaff 4870
Pfaff 4870 61
40. Measures required in case of inadmissible test values
As to I) If one of the 4 test functions is a failure, the ground mains socket is defective.
Inform the landlord.
As to II) If the electricity consumption deviates considerably from the indicated value,
although the machine does not bind, the motor is defective and must be
exchanged or repaired.
As to lll) If the insulation resistance drops below the required value, the defective
components must be found by systematic checking and must be repaired or
replaced.
As to IV) Here, the components with inadmissably high leakage current must also be found
by systematic checking and must be repaired.

Karlsruhe-Durlach, 12 July, 1994

PH/HTS

62 Pfaff 4870