Originally Posted by
KalamaQuilts
I'd go ahead and get a new motor for the kenmore though so you have a back up machine, or something for a friend to use if you are sewing together. There are a number of Kenmore collectors in our Vintage Machine forum who could point you in the right direction.
I've been lurking on these boards for a while now, but posted only a few times. I have to say that I agree with what everyone else has said, and I especially agree with this.
I collect vintage sewing machines and Kenmores are my particular favorites. They're great machines. If I were in your shoes, I would drop off the old faithful workhorse Kenmore at the shop on my way to buy that shiny new machine, and wouldn't think twice! It's not a big deal to replace the motor (have it cleaned and tuned up too), and then like KalamaQuilts said, you'll also have a good back-up machine.