Can I solder this??

Sewing Machine fix. I have 2 pics here that are kind of blurry. But maybe you can make it out. This is the side of my sewing machine where the electric plugs in. As you can see, the inside wire broke apart and does not connect to the electric connection very well. I have tried electric tape etc but it doesn't hold. The "prongs" inside the wire and connector have broken apart. Can I solder this together again or is it unsafe?? I have soldered things before, but not electric stuff like this. Thanks in advance.

Personally, I consider solder alone as unsafe for AC line power appliances.

I have seen it used in high vibration conditions, but as a supplement to a mechanical connection -- not a replacement.

Also, the solder used was not the same rosin-core stuff used for low voltage electronics. It had a much higher melting point and a different flux material.

Douglas Alpenstock wrote:as a supplement to a mechanical connection -- not a replacement.

I wanted to highlight this part of what you wrote. Yes. First you repair the connection mechanically, then you use the solder to ensure a reliable electrical connection between two things. Trying to use solder to provide strength for the connection will not provide for a durable repair.

You may be able to find a new plug, or adapt an IEC standard plug (those ubiquitous 3-prong ones that they used to use on things like computers) if the opening in the case is of an appropriate size. The latter approach would require a new cord, although it is a common type.

personally. I would try and fix it without using that connector.
I might even hard wire the cord into the sewing machine.

You could always cut that plug off the wire that goes into the wall, strip the wires. Than strip the wires on the sewing machine side. than solder the wires together. Make sure you connect the right wires together! Take photos and take your time. Maybe write down where the wires go.

Solder it and than get some heat shrink or even electrical tape. heat shrink would look nicer.


looks like some are saying solder will not work on its own. Maybe try butt connectors. solder the connectors.

Hard wiring is an option. I would always use marrettes (those twist-on connectors) since they are rated for those voltages. And, always add some sort of strain relief so that pulling on the cord doesn't pull the connections apart. A clamp is best, and safest from a fire perspective. I confess I have occasionally made a loose granny knot in the wire for temporary installations, which is far from ideal.

Did the metal pin from the connector break off?
I found it difficult to solder these connectors without melting them. The temperature for solder to turn liquid is above what also turns the connector into a liquid.
Ideally replace the connector. Either with a new one or as suggested an extended plug.