Rotary Pen Tattoo Machine Troubleshooting

Undoubtedly, rotary tattoo machines are becoming a hot cake among tattoo artists. These machines offer many features and benefits compared to traditional ones. But sometimes, they stop functioning properly for several reasons. If your rotary tattoo pen is not working, there are several ways to fix it. But before fixing the issue, you should first troubleshoot the underlying problem.

Generally, there are a few common problems with rotary pen tattoo machines. For example, the throw is too weak, the machine is overheating, or the power keeps cutting out. In addition to these, other problems include:

• Sudden power loss.
• Excessive noise or vibrations.
• Inconsistent power supply.
• Failure to turn on.

There might be many other possible problems with your tattoo machines. However, don’t worry; you’re not alone. These issues are easy to fix with simple solutions. In this article, I will help you understand Rotary Pen Tattoo Machine Troubleshooting and fixing the problems. 

Safety Disclaimer: Purpose of this guide is to help you to troubleshoot common issues in rotary pen tattoo machines. However, it’s always best consult a professional for electrical repairs to avoid damaging the machine. Now, let’s troubleshoot those tattoo pen issues.

Rotary Pen Tattoo Machine Troubleshooting

1 The Throw Is Too Weak

Troubleshoot: This is the most common issue with rotary tattoo machines. This issue occurs when only the needle is moving. This means tattoo needles don’t move up and down with enough motion, even at high voltage. A loose screw spring can create this issue when it’s not tightened correctly. Also, a jammed needle could be the reason if the throw is too weak. 

Solution: To fix this issue, lose the spring screw and flip back the armature bar. Next, rotate the entire assembly so that the front spring points downward towards the opposite side of the frame. Now, to generate tension, firmly twist the spring towards the back. Finally, all components are repositioned to their original places and securely tightened.

2 Machines Is Overheating

Troubleshoot: There could be various reasons why a wireless rotary tattoo machine begins to overheat. For instance, extended usage or operating it at a high voltage can cause the machine to heat up. The reason behind this is that when all components work continuously, it can result in overheating. Similarly, the machine starts working harder than necessary due to incorrect  voltage or unstable power supply, which causes heating problems. Besides these issues, a worn-out or malfunctioning motor is a major cause of overheating problems. 

Solution: To fix a rotary tattoo machine that is overheating, give the motor regular breaks during lengthy tattoo sessions. Also, check the voltage; if it’s too high, minimize it according to the manufacturer’s recommendation. However, if the motor is damaged or worn out, take it to a professional technician or a shop that repairs tattoo equipment. Alternatively, the best and quickest solution would be to replace the worn-out motor with a new one.

3 Tattoo Needles Are Chewing The Skin

Troubleshoot: As expected, a tattoo cartridge needle should smoothly move through the skin during tattooing. But if not, it could be an issue with the needle or armature bar and contact screw. Typically, a needle bar is an essential component of a machine that controls the movement of the needles. At the same time, an armature bar contains up/down actions. Similarly, the contact screw adjusts the distance between the armature bar and the machine’s coils. 

Solution: If the needle bar is worn or damaged, replace it with a new one. If the issue is with the armature bar, ensure it’s properly aligned and secured. So it can move freely without sticking or wobbling. Furthermore, to fix contact screw issues, first lose it slightly and then gradually tighten it while observing the machine’s behavior. It will improve the tattoo pen needle movement issue.  Also, use the right size and high-quality tattoo needles to avoid such issues. 

4 The Grip Is Coming Out

Troubleshoot: Sometimes, a tattoo gun stops working when the grip starts coming out at a slant. This occurs when the grip is not aligned correctly or perpendicular to the machine’s body, causing it to come loose. This issue arises due to incorrect adjustment between the tube and the tattoo needle.

Solution: To address this issue, use an adjustable wrench to ensure that the tube and needles are correctly aligned and securely adjusted. Moreover, when inserting the needles, ensure their secure and proper fit within the tube.

5 Rotary Tattoo Machine Keep Cutting 

Troubleshoot: If the rotary pen keeps cutting during the tattooing operation, there could be several reasons for this. It might be due to an issue with the tattoo power supply or the device being too low a voltage.

Solution: Ensure that the voltage is set to the recommended level. Additionally, use a power supply that is compatible with the device.

6 Both The Front Spring And Contact Screw Are Sparking 

Troubleshoot: Although this issue primarily arises with coil tattoo machines, it can sometimes occur with rotary machines. Usually, when there is a poor electrical connection between these two components, spanking is caused.

Solution: Please ensure a proper connection between the front spring and the contact screw and that they are properly grounded.

7 Excessive Noise Or Vibrations

Troubleshoot: Typically, a rotary tattoo machine makes extra vibrations or noise when operating at high voltage. However, there might be alternative reasons for this problem. For instance, it could result from an incorrect needle configuration, loose components, or improper tension on the springs and other parts.

Solution: First, ensure that the machine is operated only at the manufacturer’s recommended voltage. Next, if the needle is improperly set, then properly aligned or secured. Further, if there is any loose component within the machine, such as the armature bar, grip properly tightens them. Besides this, adjust the tension between the spring and needle bar. 

8 Inconsistent Or Weak Power

Troubleshoot: This is a significant issue that also prevents my Mast Tattoo Pen from working. There could be different reasons for inconsistent or weak power. These problems include an unstable power supply, a faulty capacitor, or a malfunctioning foot pedal.

Solution:

• Power Supply: Please ensure that your power supply provides a stable and consistent current to the machine. If any cables are faulty or broken, replace them with new ones. However, if you use a completely wireless tattoo machine, ensure the battery is in good condition. If not, replace the battery.

• Bad Capacitor: To fix this issue, buy a new capacitor and replace it

• Foot Pedal: With regular machine usage, foot pedals can become damaged or worn out. Additionally, if there is a poor power supply connection, there is a high likelihood that a faulty foot pedal could cause it. However, you can troubleshoot the issue if you have an extra foot pedal. If the problem is due to this, replace it. Even if the tattoo machine is not turning on, there is a high chance this issue is due to lousy foot pedals.

FAQs

Conclusion:

 First, you need to troubleshoot the problem to fix the rotary pen tattoo machine. By this, you can determine the exact issue. Once the problem is identified, you can easily apply the provided solutions to fix the problem.