DDL 8500 JUKI Sewing Machine Manual

The DDL 8500 JUKI is a high-speed, straight lockstitch sewing machine designed for industrial use. Featuring automatic lubrication, thread trimmer, and reverse stitching capabilities, this machine offers precision stitching at speeds up to 5,500 SPM. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Threading and Needle Setup 7. Operation Guide 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-speed sewing head, automatic lubrication system, thread trimmer, reverse stitch mechanism, and electronic control panel.

FeatureDescription
Stitch TypeStraight Lockstitch (301)
Maximum Speed5,500 SPM
Stitch Length0.1-5.0 mm adjustable
Needle SystemDBx1 #14-21
Thread TrimmerAutomatic upper/lower thread cutting
LubricationAutomatic oil circulation system
Reverse StitchProgrammable back-tacking
Presser Foot LiftManual and automatic options
Motor TypeServo motor with electronic control
Machine WeightApproximately 45 kg

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on industrial table or stand.

  1. Position machine: Ensure stable, level surface with adequate workspace.
  2. Connect power: Use proper industrial power outlet (220V/380V depending on model).
  3. Install motor: Mount servo motor according to manufacturer instructions.
  4. Connect pedal: Attach foot controller to designated port.
  5. Oil filling: Fill oil tank with recommended JUKI sewing machine oil.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use proper lifting equipment. Ensure all electrical connections are secure and grounded.

First-Time Setup

Power on machine; perform initial setup procedures.

  1. Thread machine: Follow threading diagram for upper and lower threads.
  2. Install needle: Insert DBx1 needle with flat side facing correct direction.
  3. Set stitch length: Adjust to desired setting (1.5-2.5 mm for general sewing).
  4. Test operation: Run machine without fabric to check oil circulation.
  5. Adjust presser foot pressure: Set according to fabric thickness.

CAUTION! Keep hands away from moving parts during initial testing.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main control panel: Power switch, speed control, stitch length adjustment, reverse stitch control.

Manual Controls: Handwheel, presser foot lever, thread take-up lever, bobbin winder.

Stitch Adjustment: Stitch length dial (0.1-5.0 mm), thread tension dials (upper and lower). Presser Foot: Pressure adjustment knob for different fabric thicknesses. Reverse Stitch: Programmable stitch count for back-tacking. Speed Control: Electronic speed adjustment via control panel or foot pedal.

Threading and Needle Setup

Proper threading is essential for optimal performance.

  1. Upper threading: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle.
  2. Lower threading: Wind bobbin and insert into bobbin case.
  3. Needle installation: Insert needle with flat side toward back, tighten securely.
  4. Thread tension: Adjust upper and lower tension for balanced stitches.
  5. Needle bar height: Set according to fabric type and thickness.

Tip: Always use recommended JUKI needles and thread for best results.

Operation Guide

Daily operation procedures for consistent performance.

  1. Power on: Switch main power to ON position.
  2. Select speed: Set desired maximum speed on control panel.
  3. Position fabric: Lower presser foot onto fabric.
  4. Start sewing: Press foot pedal to begin stitching.
  5. Reverse stitching: Engage reverse for back-tacking at start/end.
  6. Thread trimming: Use automatic trimmer at seam completion.
  7. Needle positioning: Use handwheel to position needle up/down as needed.
  8. Fabric feeding: Guide fabric smoothly without pulling.

WARNING! Never place hands near needle during operation. Use proper safety guards.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long machine life and consistent performance.

Maintenance TaskFrequencyProcedure
Oil level checkDailyVerify oil level in tank; refill if needed
Needle replacementEvery 8 hours or as neededReplace with new JUKI DBx1 needle
Bobbin case cleaningDailyRemove lint and dust from bobbin area
Hook race cleaningWeeklyClean and lubricate hook race assembly
Full lubricationMonthlyComplete oil change and system flush
Motor maintenanceEvery 6 monthsCheck brushes and electrical connections

Care & Cleaning

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use compressed air and soft brushes for lint removal.

Daily: Remove lint from bobbin area, needle plate, and feed dogs. Weekly: Clean oil filters and check lubrication system. Monthly: Complete machine cleaning and inspection.

CAUTION! Use only JUKI recommended cleaning solvents and lubricants.

Regulatory Information

CE Certified: Complies with European machinery safety standards. ISO 9001: Quality management system certified. Copyright © JUKI Corporation. All rights reserved. For technical support and service, contact authorized JUKI service centers or visit www.juki.co.jp.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect tension/damaged needleAdjust tension; replace needle; check threading
Skip stitchesWrong needle size/bent needleReplace needle; check needle bar timing
Uneven stitchesImproper tension/fabric feedingBalance upper/lower tension; check feed dogs
Machine noiseLow oil/loose partsCheck oil level; tighten components; clean hook race
Thread jammingIncorrect bobbin windingRewind bobbin properly; clean bobbin case
Needle breakingWrong needle/fabric pullingUse correct needle type; avoid pulling fabric
Poor trimmingDull blades/misalignmentReplace trimmer blades; adjust trimmer timing

Service Contact: Authorized JUKI service centers only.

Technical Support: www.juki.co.jp or local JUKI distributor

DDL 8500 JUKI Sewing Machine Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025