> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://learning.loftyfiber.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://learning.loftyfiber.com/floor-and-table-looms-purchasing-information-and-support/ashford-floor-and-table-looms/brooklyn-table-loom/brooklyn-troubleshooting-tips.md).

# Brooklyn Troubleshooting tips

### **Back Beam Ratchet/Pawl Doesn’t Engage Reliably**

**Problem:** The ratchet and pawl that lock the back beam for warp tension can be hard to get to click into place or may feel like it **doesn’t hold tension properly**. Users describe needing to “help” the plastic lever past the clicker pin every time.

**Fix:**\
✅ Try **loosening the bolt holding the pawl slightly** — this can allow better movement and engagement until the mechanism breaks in.\
✅ Rock the loom gently front to back when setting the brake; this can help the pawl find and engage the ratchet teeth.\
✅ With use the plastics and pawl action often loosen slightly and operate smoother over time — this is a common characteristic of the nylon parts.\
⚠️ If the part consistently fails to engage at all, **contact LoftyFiber** for replacement pawl/ratchet parts.

***

### **Beater Gets in the Way During Threading or Feels Awkward**

**Problem:** The *Brooklyn’s* overhead beater swings back and auto bounces forward, but some weavers find it **obstructs access when threading the heddles or sleying the reed**, and they wish it could be swung out of the way completely.

**Fix:**\
✔️ **Plan threading with beater position in mind** — flip your seat a little further back and slide the warp forward so you have easier access between the shafts.\
✔️ Some users find removing **the reed entirely during threading** gives extra space to work comfortably.\
✔️ If this is a frequent pain point, consider routing your setup so the loom’s front sits over a table edge during dressing, giving easier overhead access.

***

### **Uneven or Hard-to-Maintain Warp Tension**

**Problem:** Like many small table looms, new users find **setting even warp tension** a challenge — especially if the warp is not wound on evenly or the ratchet/pawl doesn’t immediately lock tension well.

**Fix:**\
✔️ **Wind the warp on carefully** — keep layers even and check both selvedges roll on together, which greatly reduces tension variation.\
✔️ Check that the **ratchet pawl is correctly mounted and engaging the back beam** as intended (see issue #1 above).\
✔️ If needed during weave-up, **loosen and re-advance the warp** so tension is balanced before you start weaving.\
✔️ Use warp separators or cardboard sticks between layers as you wind — this helps hold even tension across the warp.