Montgomery Ward URR-251 Sewing Machine Manual

The Montgomery Ward URR-251 is a versatile household sewing machine featuring multiple stitch patterns, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in light, reverse stitching, and easy threading system. Designed for home sewing projects with durable metal construction and smooth operation. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection 7. Threading and Bobbin 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Metal frame construction, built-in stitch patterns, free arm, built-in light, reverse stitch function, adjustable presser foot pressure.

FeatureDescription
Stitch PatternsMultiple built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, decorative
Built-in ButtonholerOne-step automatic buttonhole function
Free ArmRemovable extension for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Stitch Length ControlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjustable up to 5mm for zigzag stitches
Reverse StitchReinforce seams with reverse stitching
Built-in LightIlluminates work area
Thread TensionAdjustable upper thread tension
Presser Foot PressureAdjustable for different fabric types
Drop FeedFor darning and free-motion sewing

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place on stable surface at comfortable working height.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Carefully lift machine from box, remove all protective materials.
  2. Attach accessories: Install foot controller, power cord, and accessory box.
  3. Position machine: Place on sturdy table or sewing cabinet, ensure adequate lighting.
  4. Connect power: Plug foot controller into machine, then plug power cord into wall outlet.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care using both hands. Ensure stable surface to prevent tipping.

First-Time Operation

Before first use, familiarize yourself with basic operations and settings.

  1. Thread the machine: Follow numbered threading guide on machine.
  2. Wind bobbin: Use built-in bobbin winder with matching thread.
  3. Select stitch: Turn pattern selector to desired stitch.
  4. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.
  5. Adjust settings: Fine-tune tension and stitch length as needed.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Always turn handwheel toward you.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch Selector: Dial for choosing stitch patterns. Stitch Length Dial: Controls stitch length (0-4mm). Stitch Width Dial: Adjusts zigzag width (0-5mm). Reverse Stitch Lever: Hold for backward stitching. Tension Dial: Adjusts upper thread tension (0-9). Presser Foot Pressure Dial: Adjusts pressure for different fabrics.

Additional Features: Bobbin Winder, Handwheel, Foot Controller, Built-in Light Switch, Drop Feed Lever.

Stitch Selection

Machine offers multiple stitch patterns for various sewing needs.

  1. Straight Stitch: For basic seams, topstitching
  2. Zigzag Stitch: For finishing edges, appliqué
  3. Blind Hem Stitch: For nearly invisible hems
  4. Elastic Stitch: For stretch fabrics
  5. Decorative Stitches: For embellishments
  6. Buttonhole: Automatic one-step buttonholes

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

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading is essential for good stitch quality.

  1. Upper Threading: Follow numbered guide - raise presser foot, place spool, thread through guides, needle.
  2. Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through tension disc, wind bobbin evenly.
  3. Bobbin Insertion: Remove bobbin case, insert bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  4. Bring Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to bring up bobbin thread.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off when threading. Always raise presser foot when threading.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  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 and check belt tension
  4. Storage: Cover machine when not in use, store in dry area

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

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. Manufactured to meet household sewing machine specifications. Copyright © Montgomery Ward. For technical support or service, contact authorized service centers. Replacement parts available through Montgomery Ward dealers.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin threadingRemove and rethread bobbin; check bobbin case.
Machine won't runPower/controller issuesCheck power connection; ensure foot controller is plugged in.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper and bobbin tension; clean tension discs.
Needle breaksBent needle/wrong sizeReplace needle; ensure correct needle size; don't pull fabric.

Service: Contact authorized Montgomery Ward service center for repairs.

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