Manual for Sears Kenmore Sewing Machine Model 158.17033

The Sears Kenmore Sewing Machine Model 158.17033 is a versatile household sewing machine featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, reverse stitching function, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in light, and easy threading system. Designed for home use with 120V AC power. 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 & Patterns 7. Basic Sewing Operations 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main body with free arm, stitch selection dial, stitch length control, stitch width control, reverse lever, bobbin winder, presser foot, built-in light, power pedal.

FeatureDescription
Stitch Selection DialSelects from multiple built-in stitch patterns
Stitch Length ControlAdjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjusts zigzag width from 0-5mm
Reverse LeverEngages reverse stitching for securing seams
Bobbin WinderAutomatically winds bobbin with thread
Free ArmRemovable extension table for cylindrical sewing
Built-in ButtonholerCreates perfect buttonholes in one step
Drop FeedLowers feed dogs for darning and quilting
Built-in LightIlluminates sewing area
Power PedalFoot-controlled speed regulation

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, level surface.

  1. Remove packaging materials and protective covers.
  2. Attach power cord to machine and plug into 120V AC outlet.
  3. Install foot pedal and connect to machine.
  4. Attach extension table if using flatbed sewing.
  5. Thread machine following numbered threading guide.
  6. Wind and insert bobbin according to instructions.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Unplug when not in use.

First-Time Operation

Plug in machine and turn on power; test basic functions.

  1. Select straight stitch pattern on dial.
  2. Set stitch length to medium (2.5mm).
  3. Place scrap fabric under presser foot.
  4. Lower presser foot lever.
  5. Gently press foot pedal to begin sewing.
  6. Practice controlling speed with foot pedal.
  7. Test reverse stitching function.

CAUTION! Always turn handwheel toward you; never force machine.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length control, stitch width control, reverse lever, bobbin winder, presser foot lever.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select pattern (straight, zigzag, stretch, decorative). Stitch Length: Adjust for fabric type (shorter for delicate, longer for heavy). Stitch Width: Control zigzag width for decorative stitches. Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching. Tension: Adjust thread tension dial for balanced stitches.

Stitch Selection & Patterns

Multiple stitch patterns available via selection dial.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, position 1
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Overcasting, applique, position 2
  3. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hems, position 3
  4. Stretch Stitch: For knit fabrics, position 4
  5. Decorative Stitches: Various patterns, positions 5+
  6. Buttonhole: Automatic one-step, special position

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

Basic Sewing Operations

Step-by-step guide for common sewing tasks.

  1. Threading: Follow numbered guide from spool to needle.
  2. Bobbin: Wind and insert bobbin with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  3. Fabric Placement: Position fabric under presser foot, lower lever.
  4. Starting: Hold thread tails, begin sewing with gentle pedal pressure.
  5. Guiding: Guide fabric gently without pulling.
  6. Finishing: Backstitch to secure, raise needle, lift presser foot.
  7. Buttonholes: Use automatic function with buttonhole foot.

WARNING! Never sew over pins; remove them as you approach.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly: Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil.
  3. Monthly: Clean tension discs with soft brush.
  4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessories

Included accessories for various sewing tasks.

AccessoryPurpose
Standard Presser FootGeneral sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Buttonhole FootCreating buttonholes
Darning FootFree-motion sewing
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
Extra BobbinsAdditional thread colors
NeedlesReplacement needles

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Certified for household use. Manufactured for Sears, Roebuck and Co. Copyright © Sears Brands, LLC. For technical support and service, contact Sears Customer Service at 1-800-469-4663 or visit www.sears.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitchesDull/bent needleReplace needle; ensure proper needle installation.
Uneven stitchesIncorrect tensionAdjust upper and bobbin tension; rethread.
Machine jamsThread buildupRemove bobbin case and clean; check for tangled thread.
No powerPower connectionCheck power cord; ensure outlet works; check foot pedal connection.
Poor buttonholesIncorrect foot/stabilizerUse buttonhole foot; add stabilizer to fabric.

Service: 1-800-469-4663; authorized Sears service centers only.

Manual for Sears Kenmore Sewing Machine Model 158.17033 © - All Rights Reserved 2025