Kenmore Sewing Machine 385 Repair Manual

The Kenmore Sewing Machine 385 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 needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, and variable speed control. This repair manual covers disassembly, troubleshooting, maintenance procedures, and replacement parts for the model 385. Below are key sections for safety, features, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair procedures.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Precautions 3. Maintenance Procedures 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Disassembly Guide 7. Common Repairs 8. Troubleshooting Guide 9. Parts Replacement 10. Lubrication Points 11. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: Stitch selection dial, stitch length control, stitch width control, reverse stitch lever, bobbin winder, tension dial, presser foot lifter, free arm conversion.

Feature	Description
Stitch Patterns	12 built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, and decorative
Buttonholer	4-step automatic buttonhole function
Free Arm	Removable extension table for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Drop Feed	Feed dogs can be lowered for darning and free-motion quilting
Needle Threader	Built-in automatic needle threading system
Bobbin System	Top drop-in bobbin with clear cover
Speed Control	Variable speed foot pedal with slow start function
Presser Feet	Includes zipper foot, buttonhole foot, and general purpose foot
Lighting	Built-in LED work light
Power	120V AC operation with foot pedal control

Safety Precautions

Always unplug machine before performing any maintenance or repairs.

Disconnect power: Unplug from electrical outlet before cleaning or servicing.
Needle safety: Always remove needle when not in use; handle with care.
Electrical safety: Check power cord for damage before use.
Work area: Ensure adequate lighting and stable work surface.

WARNING! Never operate machine with damaged power cord or while cover is removed. Risk of electrical shock.

Maintenance Procedures

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends machine lifespan.

Cleaning: Remove lint and dust from bobbin area and feed dogs weekly.
Oiling: Apply sewing machine oil to designated points every 3-6 months.
Needle replacement: Change needle after every 8 hours of sewing.
Tension adjustment: Test and adjust thread tension as needed.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil; other lubricants may damage internal components.

Specifications

Model: Kenmore 385
Stitches: 12 built-in patterns
Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4mm
Stitch Width: Adjustable 0-5mm
Buttonholes: 4-step automatic
Bobbin: Class 15 transparent
Needle System: HAx1 standard domestic
Max Sewing Speed: 800 stitches per minute
Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz
Weight: 12.5 lbs

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: Stitch pattern selector, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch button.

Additional Controls: Tension dial, presser foot pressure adjustment, bobbin winder stop, foot pedal speed control.

Stitch Selection: Rotate pattern dial to desired stitch. Stitch Length: Adjust for fabric type (shorter for delicate, longer for heavy). Stitch Width: Adjust zigzag and decorative stitch width. Tension: Balance upper and bobbin thread tension for even stitches.

Disassembly Guide

Step-by-step instructions for accessing internal components.

Remove top cover: Unscrew 4 Phillips head screws on top housing.
Remove front panel: Carefully pry off snap-fit front cover.
Access bobbin mechanism: Remove needle plate and shuttle cover.
Remove motor: Disconnect wires and remove mounting screws.
Access gear assembly: Remove side panels for gear access.

Tip: Take photos during disassembly to aid reassembly. Keep screws organized.

Common Repairs

Frequently needed repairs for model 385.

Timing adjustment: Realign needle bar and hook timing.
Belt replacement: Replace worn or stretched drive belt.
Motor brush replacement: Install new carbon brushes when motor loses power.
Tension assembly: Clean or replace tension discs and spring.
Feed dog adjustment: Realign or replace worn feed dogs.
Light replacement: Replace burned out LED work light.
Foot controller repair: Clean or replace faulty foot pedal.

WARNING! Always test machine after repairs before regular use.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine won't start	Power cord, foot pedal, motor brushes	Check power connection; test foot pedal; replace motor brushes.
Thread breaking	Tension, needle, thread quality	Adjust tension; replace needle; use quality thread.
Skipped stitches	Needle, timing, thread	Replace needle; check timing; use appropriate thread.
Uneven stitches	Tension, feed dogs, bobbin	Balance tension; clean feed dogs; check bobbin insertion.
Noisy operation	Lint, lack of oil, worn parts	Clean and oil; check for worn gears or bearings.
Bobbin thread bunching	Timing, bobbin case, tension	Check hook timing; clean bobbin case; adjust bobbin tension.

Parts Replacement

Common replacement parts and installation procedures.

Needles: Replace with HAx1 system needles. Belts: Part #385-BLT. Motor Brushes: Part #385-MBR. Bobbin Case: Part #385-BBC. Light Bulb: Part #385-LED.

Order genuine Kenmore parts for optimal performance and compatibility.

Lubrication Points

Regular lubrication points for smooth operation.

Needle bar: Apply one drop of oil to needle bar bushing.
Hook race: Oil hook race and shuttle mechanism.
Feed dog mechanism: Lubricate feed dog cam and linkages.
Motor bearings: Apply light oil to motor bearings if accessible.
Handwheel: Oil handwheel shaft and bearings.

CAUTION! Wipe excess oil to prevent staining fabric. Test on scrap fabric after oiling.

Warranty Information

Kenmore limited warranty: 25-year limited warranty on mechanical parts. Original purchase receipt required for warranty service. For service, contact authorized Kenmore service centers or visit www.kenmore.com. Technical support: 1-800-426-9225.