Consult the instruction manual that came with your tattoo gun for important troubleshooting tips and repair advice. Purchase a tattoo machine repair kit that contains a variety of replacement screws, washers, grommets and small tools for adjustments.
Locate and inspect the armature assembly of your machine. Adjust the bar of the armature with a screwdriver if it is in contact with the front coil of the machine. Unscrew the contact screw until the armature bar is able to move up and down freely.
Adjust the needle placement of your unit to ensure proper flow of ink. Set the needle farther out if you are using thin ink and deeper into the needle holder for more control of thick-flowing ink. Make the adjustment with a screwdriver.
Ensure that the bar that attaches the needle to the armature is not worn and replace it if it is not allowing the needle bar to move easily. Consult your instruction manual for a chart that outlines the type of grommet to use for your unit.
Adjust the coils of your unit and remember they are the heart of your machine. Ensure that they are always properly wrapped and are sending the proper amount of power to the machine from the power unit. Re-wrap coils or replace as necessary based on the type of tattoo machine you are using.
Test the foot power assembly before each sitting to make sure it does not stick and it is providing power correctly. Tighten all wires that attach the power unit to the machine. Replace any fuses, if necessary.
Lube any moving parts of the machine that your manual indicates need oil on a regular basis, to ensure proper movement and ease of operation.
Run your machine through a test cycle before each use and after any repairs or adjustments. Make further adjustments accordingly.