Free Sears Kenmore Sewing Machine Manual 158

The Sears Kenmore Sewing Machine Model 158 is a versatile household sewing machine featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in light, reverse stitching, and variable speed control. This manual covers setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting for this reliable mechanical sewing machine.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. Basic Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection 7. Maintenance and Care 8. Accessories 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with multiple stitch patterns, free arm, built-in light, reverse stitch, and adjustable tension control.

Feature	Description
Stitch Patterns	Straight, zigzag, stretch, decorative stitches
Stitch Length Control	Adjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch Width Control	Adjustable from 0-5mm
Built-in Buttonholer	One-step automatic buttonholes
Free Arm	For sewing sleeves and cuffs
Drop Feed	For darning and quilting
Reverse Stitch	For reinforcing seams
Built-in Light	Illuminates work area
Tension Control	Adjustable upper thread tension
Variable Speed	Foot pedal controlled sewing speed

Unpacking and Setup

Remove machine from packaging and inspect all components.

Place machine on stable, level surface at comfortable working height.
Attach foot pedal to machine and plug into power outlet.
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, thread through bobbin winder tension, wind bobbin evenly.
Insert bobbin: Remove bobbin case, insert bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path from spool to needle.

WARNING! Always unplug machine when changing needles or performing maintenance.

Basic Operation

Power on machine; test stitch on scrap fabric first.

Select stitch pattern using pattern selector dial.
Adjust stitch length and width using control dials.
Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot using lever.
Gently press foot pedal to begin sewing.
Use reverse stitch lever at beginning and end of seams.
Raise presser foot and remove fabric when finished.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Always use proper needle for fabric type.

Specifications

Model: Kenmore 158 Series
Type: Mechanical Sewing Machine
Stitch Patterns: Multiple built-in patterns
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
Buttonholes: One-step automatic
Free Arm: Yes, removable accessory tray
Light: Built-in work light
Power: 120V AC, 60Hz
Weight: Approximately 15 lbs

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch pattern selector, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch lever, tension control dial.

Stitch Selection: Turn pattern dial to desired stitch symbol. Stitch Length: 0 for darning, 1-4 for normal sewing. Stitch Width: 0 for straight stitch, 1-5 for zigzag and decorative stitches. Tension: Adjust for balanced stitches (usually 4-5 for medium weight fabrics). Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching.

Stitch Selection

Machine offers multiple stitch patterns for various sewing needs.

Straight Stitch: For basic seams, topstitching, basting
Zigzag Stitch: For finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics
Blind Hem Stitch: For nearly invisible hems
Stretch Stitches: For knit and stretch fabrics
Decorative Stitches: For embellishment and decorative seams
Buttonhole: Automatic one-step buttonholes

Tip: Always test stitch on scrap fabric of same type before sewing project.

Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Clean lint and dust from bobbin area after each project.
Oil moving parts every 3-6 months with sewing machine oil.
Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing or if damaged.
Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.
Have machine professionally serviced annually.

WARNING! Unplug machine before cleaning or oiling. Use only sewing machine oil.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Kenmore 158 sewing machine.

Accessory	Use
Assorted Presser Feet	Zigzag, zipper, buttonhole, blind hem
Bobbins (4)	Extra bobbins for different thread colors
Needles	Assorted sizes for different fabrics
Seam Ripper	For removing stitches
Brush	For cleaning lint
Screwdriver	For needle and foot changes

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Rethread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle
Needle breaking	Bent needle/wrong size	Replace needle; use correct size for fabric
Uneven stitches	Tension imbalance	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; rethread
Machine not running	Power/foot pedal	Check power cord; ensure foot pedal is plugged in
Fabric not feeding	Feed dogs lowered	Raise feed dogs; clean feed dog area
Skip stitches	Dull/bent needle	Replace needle; ensure correct insertion

Reset: Unplug machine for 5 minutes to reset electronic components.

Service: Contact authorized Sears service center for repairs.

Warranty Information

Sears Kenmore sewing machines come with limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty period varies by model. For warranty service, contact Sears Customer Service with proof of purchase. This manual is provided free for educational purposes and does not constitute an official Sears document.