grannysewer

I have a Kenmore convertible 158.1791 and it seems to be stuck in zz mode. We have worked for days to get it to ss, but it doesn't want to. Should we just cut our losses and declare it dead or continue? It's in good shape for a 30-40 yr old machine, if it would just ss. Thanks for any thought, Bobbie

J Miller

Take the top of and: FLOAT everything that moves or looks like it should move, including the stitch control with TRI-FLOW oil.

More than likely it's just gummed up inside. The Kenmore 158 series were good machines. Don't give up on it.

Joe

grannysewer

Thanks Joe,
We're using sewing machine oil. Is the TRI-FLOW oil any different? I have a spray can of TRI-FLOW, would that work?

J Miller

Yes, the Tri-Flow is different. I don't know the exact chemical make up of it, but it penetrates better and does lube better than regular sewing machine oil.

I've had several sticky machines that wouldn't cooperate free right up once I started using the Tri-Flow in them.
I don't think it would hurt to try the T-F spray, but the little drip spout bottle is really good for getting the oil right where you want it.

Joe

cabbagepatchkid

I use Triflow and it works wonderful!! It has teflon in it so it's a little different from regular machine oil. Does you spray can have a teeny straw to help you get the oil where you want it? I have the bottle of oil and also use the little straw.

Don't give up on your Kenmore. I had one that was 'frozen' in many places but I just kept adding the oil, wiggling the part (over and over) as much as it would move, and it wasn't too long before it was moving freely!!

Skyangel

My Mom's Kenmore was frozen and I just kept lubricating, wiggling the handwheel, and finally it came loose! I resorted to PB Blaster, then after it started moving, wiped it all out and gave it a good dose of Tri-Flow. The Kenmore is working good again. Don't give up!

grannysewer

My bad! That's not TRI-FLOW I have, but I haven't used it either. Will get some next time I'm in town. The other 158 will only ss not zz!LOL We're having a time. But it's fun and with your encouragement we'll get them running right.

Wintersewer

I love my vintage Kenmore machines. I have had them completely frozen up and with TriFlow they were smooth as glass in a few hours. Just keep at it. And heat might help.

labeelady

My old Kenmore wouldn't zz when I got it back from my daughter. Hubby opened the case, checked the movable parts and said it needed oiling. Once he got the machine oiled, he manipulated the parts with his fingers and got them to free up. Saved me a trip to the sewing machine repairman!

Actually, I don't think that machine had been oiled since my daughter borrowed it!

Marysewfun

I picked up one of those Kenmore's in a sewing cabinet at a Habitat for Humanity store for $50 and it was frozen stiff. I worked with it for an hour or more with oil and turning everything that would move - now it sews fantastically. Definitely don't give up on her!

Marysewfun