Adler 187 Sewing Machine Manual

The Adler 187 is a professional-grade sewing machine designed for industrial use, featuring high-speed stitching capabilities, automatic thread trimming, programmable patterns, and robust construction for heavy-duty applications. Below are key sections covering safety guidelines, machine features, setup instructions, operation procedures, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Threading and Bobbin 7. Stitch Patterns 8. Maintenance & Lubrication 9. Safety Features 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-speed sewing head, automatic thread trimmer, programmable stitch patterns, digital speed control, knee lift lever, and built-in needle positioner.

FeatureDescription
Stitching SpeedUp to 2500 stitches per minute
Automatic Thread TrimmerCuts top and bobbin threads automatically
Programmable Patterns20 built-in stitch patterns with memory function
Digital Speed ControlPrecise speed adjustment via dial
Knee Lift LeverHands-free presser foot lifting
Needle PositionerAutomatic needle up/down positioning
Bobbin WindingBuilt-in automatic bobbin winder
Feed SystemDifferential feed with adjustable pressure
Stitch LengthAdjustable from 0.5mm to 5mm
Stitch WidthAdjustable up to 7mm

Installation & Setup

Unpack machine and inspect for shipping damage. Place on stable work surface.

  1. Position machine: Ensure adequate workspace and proper lighting.
  2. Connect power: Plug into grounded 110V outlet (check local voltage requirements).
  3. Install needle: Insert needle with flat side facing back, tighten screw.
  4. Thread machine: Follow threading diagram (see section 6).
  5. Wind bobbin: Use built-in bobbin winder with thread guide.
  6. Oil machine: Apply recommended lubricant to specified points.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use proper lifting techniques. Ensure work area is clean and well-lit.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; perform initial setup procedures.

  1. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Test stitch: Use scrap fabric to test basic straight stitch.
  4. Adjust tension: Check top and bobbin tension for balanced stitches.
  5. Set stitch length: Start with 2.5mm for general sewing.
  6. Practice controls: Familiarize with speed control and knee lift.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always use proper lighting.

Technical Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main control panel: Power switch, speed control dial, reverse stitch button, thread trimmer button, pattern selection buttons.

Manual Controls: Handwheel, presser foot lever, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, tension dials.

Stitch Adjustment: Length (0.5-5mm), Width (0-7mm), Tension (top and bobbin), Feed dog height. Special Functions: Needle position (up/down), Automatic thread trimmer, Programmable pattern memory, Reverse stitching, Knee lift sensitivity adjustment.

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading is essential for optimal performance.

  1. Top Threading: Follow numbered path from spool pin to needle.
  2. Bobbin Winding: Place spool on winder, thread through tension disk, wind evenly.
  3. Bobbin Insertion: Place in case with thread through tension spring, insert into shuttle.
  4. Thread Drawing: Rotate handwheel to bring up bobbin thread.
  5. Tension Adjustment: Test on scrap fabric, adjust until balanced.

Tip: Always use good quality thread and clean machine regularly for best results.

Stitch Patterns

20 built-in stitch patterns including straight, zigzag, and decorative stitches.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic forward stitching (patterns 1-3)
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Versatile stitch for finishing and decoration (patterns 4-8)
  3. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hemming (pattern 9)
  4. Buttonhole: Automatic 4-step buttonhole (patterns 10-12)
  5. Decorative: Ornamental stitches for embellishment (patterns 13-20)
  6. Pattern Selection: Use pattern dial or digital selector
  7. Memory Function: Store frequently used stitch combinations
  8. Mirror Imaging: Reverse pattern direction when needed

WARNING! Always test new stitch patterns on scrap fabric before using on projects.

Maintenance & Lubrication

Regular maintenance ensures long machine life and consistent performance.

Daily: Clean lint from bobbin area and feed dogs. Weekly: Oil moving parts with recommended lubricant. Monthly: Check belt tension and needle bar alignment. Quarterly: Professional servicing recommended for industrial use.

CAUTION! Always disconnect power before performing maintenance. Use only recommended lubricants.

Safety Features

Automatic needle stop, overload protection, emergency stop capability, finger guard, and thermal motor protection.

Regulatory Information

CE certified for European markets. UL listed for North American electrical safety standards. Complies with ISO 9001 quality management. Copyright © Adler Sewing Machines. For technical support, visit www.adler-sewing-machines.com or contact +49 (0) 7021 500-0.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRe-thread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type; check needle insertion.
Uneven stitchesTension imbalanceBalance top and bobbin tension; clean tension disks.
Machine jamsThread buildup/improper bobbinClean bobbin area; reinsert bobbin correctly; check for loose threads.
No powerPower connection/fuseCheck power cord; verify outlet; check circuit breaker; replace fuse if applicable.

Reset: Turn power off for 30 seconds to reset electronic controls.

Service: +49 (0) 7021 500-0; www.adler-sewing-machines.com

Adler 187 Sewing Machine Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025