sears sewing machine manual 158

The Sears Sewing Machine Model 158 is a versatile household sewing machine featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, reverse stitching, and variable speed control. This mechanical sewing machine operates on standard household current and includes accessories such as various presser feet, bobbins, needles, and a seam ripper. Below are key sections covering safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, stitch pattern dial, stitch length control, stitch width control, reverse lever, free arm, built-in light, foot pedal control.

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all components. Place on stable, level surface.

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 standard electrical outlet.
5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
6. Install bobbin: Follow threading diagram for drop-in bobbin system.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions.

1. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
2. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc.
3. Select straight stitch: Set pattern dial to straight stitch position.
4. Test stitch: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, press pedal gently.
5. Adjust tension: Test on scrap fabric, adjust upper tension as needed.
6. Practice reverse: Engage reverse lever to reinforce stitches.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep work area well-lit.

Specifications

• Machine Type: Mechanical Sewing Machine
• Stitch Patterns: 10 built-in patterns including straight, zigzag, stretch
• Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
• Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable for zigzag
• Buttonholes: One-step automatic
• Speed Control: Foot pedal variable speed
• Free Arm: Yes, removable flat bed
• Lighting: Built-in sewing light
• Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Weight: Approximately 15 lbs

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch pattern dial, stitch length control, stitch width control, reverse lever, bobbin winder.

Stitch Selection: Rotate pattern dial to desired stitch. Stitch Length: Turn knob for longer/shorter stitches. Stitch Width: Adjust for zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse: Hold lever for backward stitching. Tension Control: Adjust upper thread tension (3-9 range). Presser Foot Pressure: Adjust for light/heavy fabrics.

Stitch Selection

Pattern dial offers multiple stitch options.

1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, position 1
2. Zigzag Stitch: Overcasting, applique, position 2
3. Multiple Zigzag: Elastic and stretch fabrics, position 3
4. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hems, position 4
5. Decorative Stitches: Positions 5-8 for embellishment
6. Buttonhole: Automatic one-step, position 9
7. Darning: Free-motion sewing, position 0

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

1. Raise needle to highest position using handwheel.
2. Place spool on spindle, follow numbered threading path.
3. Thread through tension discs, take-up lever, and needle.
4. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through guide.
5. Insert bobbin: Drop into bobbin case, pull thread through slot.
6. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel slowly.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off during threading. Keep threads clean and untangled.

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. Use only sewing machine oil.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with machine.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed for household use. Complies with FCC regulations for electromagnetic compatibility. Copyright © Sears, Roebuck and Co. For technical support, contact Sears Customer Service at 1-800-469-4663 or visit www.sears.com.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Turn off machine, wait 30 seconds, restart.

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