Kenmore Sewing Machine Model 605 Manual

The Kenmore Sewing Machine Model 605 is a versatile household sewing machine featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, reverse sewing function, built-in light, drop feed for darning and quilting, and easy threading system. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection Guide 7. Threading Instructions 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Stitch pattern selector, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse lever, bobbin winder, presser foot lever, free arm, built-in light.

Feature	Description
Stitch Patterns	Multiple built-in stitch patterns including straight, zigzag, and decorative
Stitch Length Dial	Adjustable stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch Width Dial	Adjustable zigzag width up to 5mm
Reverse Lever	For reinforcing stitches at beginning and end of seams
Built-in Buttonholer	One-step automatic buttonhole function
Free Arm	Removable accessory compartment for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Drop Feed	For darning, quilting, and free-motion sewing
Built-in Light	Illuminates sewing area
Bobbin Winder	Automatic bobbin winding system
Power Switch	Turns machine on/off

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface.

Remove machine from packaging and remove all protective materials.
Place machine on sturdy table or sewing cabinet.
Connect foot control pedal to machine.
Plug power cord into electrical outlet.
Install needle according to instructions.
Wind and install bobbin.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care to avoid injury. Ensure stable surface placement.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup procedures.

Thread machine: Follow threading diagram from spool to needle.
Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin and wind bobbin evenly.
Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
Select stitch: Choose appropriate stitch pattern for your project.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.
Adjust tension: Fine-tune upper thread tension as needed.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Always turn off when not in use.

Specifications

Model: Kenmore 605
Stitch Patterns: 12 built-in stitches
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
Buttonhole: One-step automatic
Speed Control: Foot pedal controlled
Needle System: 15x1 household needles
Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin
Power Source: 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 lever, bobbin winder stop.

Stitch Selection: Turn pattern dial to desired stitch. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches. Stitch Width: Control zigzag width. Reverse: Hold lever for backward stitching. Tension: Adjust upper thread tension dial (3-6 normal range). Presser Foot Pressure: Adjustable for different fabric types.

Stitch Selection Guide

Guide to common stitch patterns and their uses.

Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, seams (length 2.0-2.5mm)
Zigzag Stitch: Finishing edges, stretch fabrics (width 2-4mm)
Blind Hem Stitch: Nearly invisible hems
Stretch Stitch: For knit and stretch fabrics
Decorative Stitches: Various patterns for embellishment
Buttonhole Stitch: Automatic one-step buttonholes

Tip: Always test stitch on scrap fabric before starting project.

Threading Instructions

Step-by-step threading procedure.

Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
Place thread spool on spool pin.
Pull thread through first thread guide.
Pass thread between tension discs.
Pull thread up and through take-up lever.
Pass thread through remaining guides.
Thread needle from front to back.
Pull about 4 inches of thread behind needle.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off during threading. Follow exact path for proper tension.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Clean lint from bobbin area after each project.
Oil moving parts as specified in manual.
Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
Replace needle regularly (every 8-10 hours of sewing).
Check belt tension periodically.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only recommended oils.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with machine.

Accessory	Purpose
All-purpose foot	General sewing
Zipper foot	Installing zippers
Buttonhole foot	Making buttonholes
Darning/Embroidery foot	Free-motion work
Seam ripper	Removing stitches
Brush	Cleaning lint
Extra needles	Various sizes
Bobbins	Extra bobbins
Screwdriver	Needle plate removal

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for operation.

Always disconnect power when changing needles or cleaning
Keep fingers away from moving needle
Do not operate with damaged cord or foot control
Use proper needle for fabric type
Keep machine covered when not in use
Operate in well-lit area
Keep hair and loose clothing away from moving parts

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Rethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Needle breaking	Bent needle/wrong size	Replace needle; ensure correct size for fabric; check needle insertion.
Uneven stitches	Tension issues	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; rethread both top and bottom.
Machine not feeding	Feed dogs lowered	Raise feed dogs; clean feed dog area; check presser foot pressure.
Machine won't start	Power/foot control	Check power connection; inspect foot control cord; ensure machine is on.
Bobbin thread bunching	Bobbin threading	Remove and reinsert bobbin; ensure correct direction; check bobbin case.

Service: For technical support, contact Kenmore customer service at 1-800-xxx-xxxx or visit www.kenmore.com