Notwendy

None of my Kenmore sewing machines are listed on the Sears Archive list (has 14 pages and stops at model 158.50). I have 3 low-shank models: 158.54, 158.85, 158.88 (aka Trispan 88).

I'm going to see a 158.75 this weekend and wondered how it compared to the other 3 (i.e. needle position, shank style, cams, etc.)? I tried Google and searched here but didn't find anything specific. It looks as if the bobbin faces left rather than to the front, like the rest of mine.

Also, is there a more comprehensive list of information that extends past the end model 158.50 of the Sears Archive list? I'm interested in manufacture dates, compatible accessories/models and maybe original cost when they were new, etc. I've been on various Yahoo groups but they just list the 14 pages of the Sears Archive that I've seen elsewhere.

Thanks!

greaterexp

Did you look at ISMACS?

KenmoreGal2

Hi Notwendy,

The Yahoo group "Vintage and Older Kenmore Sewing Machines" has a user generated chart of models and features. Unfortunately your model is not listed. If you aren't a member of that group, I'd recommend joining anyway.

I'm also a member of the Yahoo group "Helping others use and care for vintage Kenmore sewing machines". I searched both sites for mention of 158.75 and found nothing. However, I think sometimes there is even a 3rd digit in the last string of numbers and that may be the part that's causing me to get no hits.

Notwendy

Thanks for the suggestions greaterexp & KenmoreGal2.

ISMACS is rather dismissive of the post WWII Japanese imports, from what I've seen on the site. I belong to several similar Yahoo groups - I'll have to take a closer look.

The model 158.750 might just be acquired for display if the colors are bright. I can't really tell the shade of pale blue and whether the yellow is meant to be yellow or just discolored. I'll grab pictures if nothing else when I see it tomorrow.