John Richard's is right about the needle. If it is slightly bent it can cause the trigger to stick. This problem can be easily solved by just replacing the needle. Here are a few other tips that will help diagnose other problems as well.
1. Make sure the needle has been properly installed. If the tool has jammed, and the trigger will not release, remove the needle. Sometimes the barbs will get caught in the needle and it may be necessary to use a pliers to pull the needle out. Once the needle is out and the barbs are cleared, the trigger should then release.
NEVER DISMANTLE THE TOOL! There is a 3 month warranty on all Attach-EZ hand tools, and an "Out Of Warranty" program as well. Dismantling a tool will cancel all warranties. If you have broken a tool, or have one that doesn't seem to be functioning properly and you have had it longer than 3 months, call your distributor, or Fletcher's customer service for instructions on how to get it repaired. You can also E-mail me, Pat Kotnour, at
attachezoms@aol.com with your store name and phone number and I will call you within the next business day. This e-mail address can also be used to get technical advice on other non-mechanical questions, as well.
2. One of the biggest problems I see is new employee's who haven't read the directions before using the tools. Always insist that anyone using the Attach-EZ tools read the directions first. The needles are very sharp and don't need a lot of pressure, just patience. Never pull the trigger until the needle is at it's maximum depth. People who haven't seen a demonstration, or read the directions will sometimes pull the trigger and bend the needle at the same time. This action can bend the plunger that dispenses the fasteners. Once the plunger is bent the tool will need to be repaired.
3. Make sure that you are installing the right fastener into the correct tool. The Pink hand-tool (G-FF) takes the 1/4" and 1/2" fine fabric fasteners, and the Red hand-tool (MicroTach) will only work with the standard length fasteners that comes with the kits. There is also a new, longer length for the MicroTach that is sold separately.
4. If the Micro fasteners won't advance when you pull the trigger make sure the clip is inserted correctly. The long end on the MicroTach clip is the end that goes into the tool first. If it is upside-down the clip will not advance properly.
5. When removing the fasteners from a tool always pull the trigger and hold, this will release the clip, and then it can be easily removed from the top.
6. Sometimes the fabric in football jerseys can be sticky and will drag on the needle. When it is necessary to go through many layers of fabric or heavy seams, by pushing the fabric on to the needle first, and then through the mat and backing board, you will find that you are less likely to bend the needle.
Most mechanical problems can be fixed with a simple phone call from me. If you are experiencing a problem with either of your hand-tools, don't hesitate to e-mail me at
attachezoms@aol.com. Pat Kotnour, President Attach-EZ, Inc.
