montgomery ward sewing machine manual uht j 1980

The Montgomery Ward UHT J sewing machine from 1980 is a versatile household sewing machine featuring straight stitch, zigzag stitch, buttonhole capabilities, built-in light, reverse stitching, stitch length and width adjustments, free arm design, and multiple presser feet. Powered by 120V AC, this mechanical sewing machine includes accessories like zipper foot, buttonhole foot, darning plate, and bobbins. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, built-in light, stitch pattern selector, tension dial, bobbin winder, free arm, accessory storage.

Installation and Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

1. Remove protective packaging and inspect all parts.
2. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
3. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide thread through bobbin winder tension, press bobbin onto winder shaft.
4. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin cover, drop in bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
5. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading guide on machine.
6. Plug into AC power outlet.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions.

1. Select straight stitch: Turn stitch pattern selector to straight stitch position.
2. Set stitch length: Adjust to medium setting (2.5) for general sewing.
3. Test stitch: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and gently press foot control.
4. Practice reverse stitching: Hold reverse lever while stitching.
5. Experiment with zigzag: Change stitch pattern selector to zigzag setting.

CAUTION! Always start with scrap fabric to test settings. Keep work area well-lit.

Specifications

• Model: Montgomery Ward UHT J
• Year: 1980
• Stitch Types: Straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches
• Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
• Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
• Buttonhole: 4-step manual
• Bobbin Type: Class 15 metal bobbins
• Needle System: 15x1 household needles
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Machine Type: Mechanical free-arm

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: Rotate pattern selector for different stitch types. Stitch Length: Adjust for fabric type (shorter for delicate, longer for heavy). Stitch Width: Controls zigzag width. Tension: Adjust for balanced stitches (higher numbers for tighter tension). Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching. Presser Foot Pressure: Fixed pressure suitable for most fabrics.

Stitch Selection and Adjustments

Proper stitch selection for different fabrics and projects.

1. Straight Stitch: General sewing, seams, topstitching (length 2.5-3.0)
2. Zigzag Stitch: Finishing edges, stretch fabrics, appliqué (width 2-4)
3. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hemming (use blind hem foot)
4. Decorative Stitches: Multiple pattern options for embellishment
5. Buttonhole: 4-step process using buttonhole foot

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

Basic Sewing Techniques

Fundamental sewing operations and procedures.

1. Starting to Sew: Position fabric, lower presser foot, begin stitching
2. Seam Sewing: Guide fabric evenly, maintain consistent seam allowance
3. Reverse Stitching: Begin and end seams with backstitching
4. Curves and Corners: Slow down, use hand wheel for precise control
5. Gathering: Use longer stitch length, pull bobbin threads
6. Zipper Installation: Use zipper foot for close stitching
7. Buttonholes: Mark position, follow 4-step buttonhole process

WARNING! Never pull fabric while sewing - let feed dogs move fabric.

Maintenance and 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 race hook and surrounding mechanism
4. Needle Replacement: Change needle after 8-10 hours of sewing
5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use, store in dry location

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only sewing machine oil.

Accessories and Parts

Standard accessories included with machine.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Certified for household use in United States and Canada. Manufactured for Montgomery Ward & Co. Copyright © 1980 Montgomery Ward. For technical support or replacement parts, contact Montgomery Ward Service Department or authorized service centers. Keep manual for future reference.

Troubleshooting

Service: Contact authorized Montgomery Ward service center for repairs.

Parts: Use only genuine Montgomery Ward replacement parts.