Janome MyLock 434 DR Manual

The Janome MyLock 434 DR is a professional 4-thread overlock sewing machine designed for creating durable, professional-quality seams and finishes. It features differential feed for handling various fabric types, easy threading system, built-in rolled hem capability, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, and built-in LED lighting. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Threading Instructions 7. Stitch Selection 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Safety Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 4-thread overlock capability, Differential feed system, Free arm, Built-in rolled hem, Adjustable stitch length and width, LED work light, Color-coded threading.

Feature	Description
Differential Feed	Prevents stretching or puckering on various fabrics
Rolled Hem	Creates narrow, professional hems on lightweight fabrics
Stitch Length Dial	Adjusts stitch length from 1-4mm
Stitch Width Dial	Adjusts stitch width up to 7mm
Free Arm	Allows easy sewing of sleeves and cuffs
LED Light	Provides bright, shadow-free illumination
Color-coded Threading	Simplifies threading process with visual guides
Looper Threading	Easy looper threading system
Tension Dials	Four individual tension controls
Power Switch	On/off power control

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all components. Place on stable, level surface.

Remove machine from packaging: Carefully lift machine from box, remove all protective materials.
Attach accessories: Install standard foot, free arm accessory if detached.
Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet (120V AC).
Oil machine: Apply recommended oil to designated points before first use.
Install needle: Insert appropriate needle type and secure properly.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care using both hands. Ensure work area is clean and well-lit.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading and setup procedures.

Thread machine: Follow color-coded threading guide for upper and lower loopers, needles.
Set tensions: Begin with recommended tension settings for basic overlock stitch.
Test on scrap fabric: Practice on similar fabric before starting project.
Adjust differential feed: Set according to fabric type being used.
Select stitch: Choose appropriate stitch type for your project.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from moving needle and cutting blade during operation.

Specifications

Type: 4-thread overlock sewing machine
Stitch Types: 4-thread overlock, 3-thread overlock, rolled hem, flatlocking
Stitch Length: 1-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: Up to 7mm maximum
Differential Feed: 0.7-2.0 ratio
Speed: Up to 1300 stitches per minute
Needles: HAx1 SP system, size 11/80 or 14/90
Lighting: Built-in LED light
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Dimensions: Standard overlock machine size with free arm

Controls and Settings

Access controls via front panel dials and levers. Main Controls: Power switch, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Differential feed dial, Tension dials (4).

Additional Controls: Presser foot lever, Handwheel, Free arm release, Rolled hem lever, Looper threader.

Stitch Length: Adjust from 1mm (short) to 4mm (long). Stitch Width: Adjust up to 7mm for wider seams. Differential Feed: Adjust from 0.7 (gather) to 2.0 (stretch). Tension: Four individual dials for upper looper, lower looper, right needle, left needle.

Threading Instructions

Follow color-coded threading path for proper operation.

Upper looper: Follow blue threading path from spool to upper looper.
Lower looper: Follow red threading path from spool to lower looper.
Right needle: Follow green threading path for right needle thread.
Left needle: Follow yellow threading path for left needle thread.
Use built-in threader: Engage looper threader for easy looper threading.

Tip: Always thread with presser foot raised to open tension discs.

Stitch Selection

Supports multiple stitch types for various sewing applications.

4-thread overlock: For strong, durable seams on medium to heavy fabrics.
3-thread overlock: For lighter weight fabrics and decorative edges.
Rolled hem: Engage rolled hem lever for narrow, finished hems.
Flatlocking: For decorative seams and joining stretch fabrics.
Gathering: Use differential feed set below 1.0 for gathering effect.
Stretch prevention: Use differential feed set above 1.0 to prevent stretching.

WARNING! Always test stitch on scrap fabric before sewing project. Ensure proper thread tension.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before maintenance. Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance.

Daily cleaning: Remove lint and thread bits from loopers and feed dogs.
Weekly oiling: Apply recommended oil to designated points.
Needle replacement: Replace needle regularly or when damaged.
Blade care: Keep cutting blade clean and sharp.

CAUTION! Use only recommended Janome oil. Do not use compressed air for cleaning.

Safety Information

Always disconnect power when changing needles, cleaning, or performing maintenance. Keep hands away from moving parts. Use proper lighting. Do not operate with damaged cord or plug.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect tension/threading	Re-thread machine; adjust tension; check for rough spots.
Uneven stitches	Differential feed setting	Adjust differential feed; check fabric feeding.
Fabric not feeding	Presser foot pressure	Ensure presser foot is down; clean feed dogs.
Looper thread skipping	Timing/threading	Re-thread loopers; check needle insertion.
Machine jams	Thread buildup	Turn handwheel backward; remove thread tangles; clean area.
Noise during operation	Lack of lubrication	Oil machine at designated points; check for loose parts.

Service: Contact authorized Janome service center for mechanical issues.

Support: Visit www.janome.com or contact customer service for assistance.