Janome My Excel 18W Service Manual

The Janome My Excel 18W is a versatile sewing machine featuring 18 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, and multiple presser feet. This service manual provides comprehensive guidance for maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair procedures for technicians and experienced users.

1. Technical Specifications 2. Machine Overview 3. Maintenance Procedures 4. Disassembly Instructions 5. Troubleshooting Guide 6. Electrical System 7. Timing Adjustment 8. Parts List 9. Reassembly Instructions 10. Safety Precautions 11. Warranty Information

Technical Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the Janome My Excel 18W sewing machine.

Specification	Details
Stitch Types	18 built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative
Stitch Length	Adjustable up to 4mm
Stitch Width	Adjustable up to 5mm
Buttonhole	1-step automatic buttonhole
Needle System	HAx1 standard domestic needles
Presser Feet	Includes zigzag, zipper, buttonhole, and blind hem feet
Free Arm	Yes, for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Power Requirements	110V, 60Hz, 70W
Machine Weight	12.5 lbs (5.7 kg)
Dimensions	15.4" x 7.1" x 11.8"

Machine Overview

Understanding the main components and their functions.

Upper Tension Assembly: Controls thread tension for proper stitch formation
Bobbin Case: Houses the bobbin and regulates lower thread tension
Feed Dog System: Moves fabric under the needle during sewing
Hook Assembly: Rotates to catch the upper thread and form stitches
Motor and Drive System: Provides power to the machine
Electronic Control Board: Manages stitch selection and motor speed

WARNING! Always disconnect power before performing any service procedures.

Maintenance Procedures

Regular maintenance schedule and procedures.

Daily Cleaning: Remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs
Weekly Oil: Apply sewing machine oil to designated points
Monthly Inspection: Check needle bar, hook, and tension assemblies
Quarterly Service: Complete disassembly and thorough cleaning
Annual Calibration: Verify timing and tension settings

CAUTION! Use only Janome-approved lubricants and cleaning products.

Disassembly Instructions

Step 1: Remove outer casing screws and lift off covers
Step 2: Disconnect motor wiring and remove motor assembly
Step 3: Remove handwheel and main shaft components
Step 4: Extract needle bar and presser bar assemblies
Step 5: Remove hook race and bobbin case mechanism
Step 6: Access electronic control board if needed

Troubleshooting Guide

Common issues and their solutions for the My Excel 18W.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect tension or burred needle	Adjust tension; replace needle; check thread path
Skipped stitches	Timing issues or bent needle	Check hook timing; replace needle
Machine jams	Thread buildup or timing problems	Clean bobbin area; verify hook timing
Uneven stitches	Tension imbalance	Balance upper and lower tension
Motor not running	Power issue or control board failure	Check power supply; test control board

Electrical System

Electrical components and testing procedures.

Motor Testing: Verify continuity and brush condition
Foot Controller: Check variable resistance operation
Control Board: Test output voltages and stitch selection
Power Supply: Verify 110V input and proper grounding
Lighting Circuit: Test bulb and wiring connections

Tip: Always use a multimeter for electrical testing and ensure proper grounding.

Timing Adjustment

Proper timing setup for optimal stitch quality.

Set needle at highest position using handwheel
Align hook point with needle center when needle rises 2.2mm
Adjust hook timing by loosening set screw on hook drive gear
Verify clearance between hook point and needle (0.05-0.1mm)
Test stitch formation with scrap fabric

WARNING! Incorrect timing can cause needle breakage and machine damage.

Parts List

Essential replacement parts and their part numbers.

Part Description	Part Number	Quantity
Needle Bar Assembly	X59289001	1
Hook Assembly Complete	X59231001	1
Bobbin Case	X53506001	1
Motor Assembly	X59251001	1
Tension Assembly	X59270001	1
Control Board	X59295001	1

Reassembly Instructions

Step-by-step reassembly after service procedures.

Install hook assembly and verify timing
Mount needle bar and presser bar assemblies
Reinstall main shaft and handwheel
Connect motor wiring and mount motor
Replace outer covers and secure with screws
Test all functions before returning to customer

CAUTION! Ensure all components move freely before applying power.

Safety Precautions

Essential safety guidelines for service technicians.

Always disconnect power before servicing. Use proper tools and follow torque specifications. Wear safety glasses when working with springs and small parts. Keep work area clean and organized. Test machine thoroughly before customer use.

Warranty Information

Janome My Excel 18W warranty terms and service policies.

25-year limited warranty on mechanical parts. 5-year warranty on electronic components. 1-year labor warranty. Warranty void if machine is serviced by unauthorized personnel. For service support, contact Janome America at 1-800-631-0183 or visit www.janome.com.