sears kenmore sewing machine model 5185 manual

The Sears Kenmore Sewing Machine Model 5185 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 light, reverse stitching, 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 7. Threading & Bobbin 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, free arm, built-in light, foot pedal, power cord.

FeatureDescription
Stitch Pattern SelectorSelects from multiple built-in stitch patterns
Stitch Length DialAdjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch Width DialAdjusts stitch width for zigzag and decorative stitches
Reverse LeverReinforces stitching at beginning and end of seams
Bobbin WinderAutomatically winds bobbin when machine is threaded
Free ArmRemovable extension for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Built-in LightIlluminates sewing area
Drop FeedLowers feed dogs for darning and free-motion quilting
ButtonholerOne-step automatic buttonhole function
Power SwitchTurns machine on/off

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
  2. Position machine: Place on sturdy table or sewing cabinet.
  3. Connect foot pedal: Plug into machine's pedal port.
  4. Connect power: Plug power cord into electrical outlet.
  5. Install accessories: Attach standard presser foot.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup procedure.

  1. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading guide on machine.
  2. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc.
  3. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case following directional arrow.
  4. Select stitch: Choose straight stitch for initial testing.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to check tension and stitch quality.

CAUTION! Always turn hand wheel toward you; never force machine.

Specifications

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, power switch.

Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustment. Stitch Width: 0-5mm for zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching. Pattern Selection: Turn dial to desired stitch symbol. Tension: Adjust upper thread tension dial (4-5 for normal sewing).

Stitch Selection

Multiple stitch patterns available for various sewing tasks.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching (length 2.5mm recommended)
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Overcasting, appliqué, stretch fabrics
  3. Decorative Stitches: Multiple patterns for embellishment
  4. Buttonhole: One-step automatic (follow marked guidelines)
  5. Blind Hem: For nearly invisible hemming
  6. Elastic Stitch: For sewing elastic and stretch fabrics

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading essential for good stitch quality.

  1. Upper Threading: Follow numbered guide - raise presser foot, thread through tension discs, needle eye.
  2. Bobbin Winding: Place bobbin on winder, thread through tension, press pedal to wind.
  3. Bobbin Insertion: Remove bobbin case, insert bobbin following arrow direction.
  4. Thread Drawing: Hold upper thread, turn hand wheel to bring up bobbin thread.

WARNING! Ensure presser foot is raised when threading to engage tension discs.

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 (2-3 drops).
  3. Monthly: Clean tension discs with folded fabric strip.
  4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with machine.

AccessoryUse
Standard Presser FootGeneral sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Buttonhole FootMaking buttonholes
Blind Hem FootBlind hem stitching
Bobbin (extra)Additional bobbin
NeedlesReplacement needles
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint

Safety Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with residential interference limits. UL Listed for household use. Copyright © Sears Brands LLC. For support, contact Sears Customer Service at 1-800-469-4663 or visit www.sears.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingImproper threading/tensionRethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitchesWrong needle/dull needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type.
Uneven stitchesTension imbalanceAdjust upper tension; reinsert bobbin properly.
Machine jamsThread buildupRemove bobbin case; clean area; rethread carefully.
No powerPower connectionCheck power cord; ensure foot pedal connected; check outlet.

Reset: Unplug machine for 30 seconds if electronic issues occur.

Service: 1-800-469-4663; www.sears.com

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