Suggestions for repairing a stitch control knob on a Kenmore 158.10301
 

Hello, Everyone.

I recently purchased a Kenmore 158.10301 at a local Goodwill store.

In process of cleaning this machine, I discovered that the axle portion of the dark green plastic stitch selector knob was slightly cracked and, ultimately, it cracked completely. (see attached photos)

I have tried using a plastic friendly epoxy to repair the knob, but have not been able to keep the knob intact: It breaks apart again when I try to re-install the knob.

I checked the Sears Parts website and this knob is "no longer available."

I have also checked on Ebay for a replacement knob and have had no success thus far.

Can anyone suggest a source for a replacement knob for this sewing machine OR a more robust method to repair this knob? This machine is also missing a retractable spool pin. If anyone can suggest a source for a replacement spool pin, that would be very helpful as well.

Can anyone also suggest an efficient method to (re)-attach this knob to the spindle on this machine (it seems to be almost impossible to re-attach this knob)?

Besides these problems, I like the compact size and light weight of this machine to tote to classes, this machine does work (straight stitch only for now), and this machine seems to have a nice stitch quality.

Any and all suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Do you still have the pieces that broke off? If you do then instead of just gluing the part back on like you tried before, glue it on then mostly fill the empty space around it with epoxy.
There wasn't enough support for the broken part the first time.
The other choice is try Ebay for a replacement. ThayerRags.com has parts for a lot of different machines, you might try there too.
Rodney

Broken knob
 

I use a product called "J-B Weld". It comes in 5 min.(quick) and regular. This material, when fully cured, 24 hrs., can be drilled, tapped and worked to shape. Like Rodney said, put the pieces back together, carefully, use very little to hold things together, then when the J-B sets up, appx. 5 min. and you are satisfied, fill all around the repaired area with plenty J-B and let it fully cure.

Another approach is to pile up a lot of J-B, 5 min., and let get real tacky, then carefully push the knob onto the cleaned shaft. You must push straight on with no rotational motion and hold the knob till the J-B sets up, appx. 5 min., then let it cure for at least 24 hrs.:thumbup:

**Scuff the areas with fine sandpaper and get the plastic clean for best adhesion**

Soman2

The other Rodney

You could just carry a pair of pliers and use them to change the setting. BUT I'm wondering if the inside works of that machine have a bit of stiff dried up oil. You may want to open up the top and make sure you get some oil back there so the works move more freely.

I was also wondering about dried oil causing it to turn very stiff, resulting in the broken knob.
Once worked on a Kenmore that the selector was stuck. Ended up removing the shaft and cleaning it along with a lot of oil. The owner said it worked better than it ever had even when it was new.
Good luck with getting the knob glued, but make sure it turns easily before re-installing the knob.

Ethel

Isn’t that what “ViceGrips” are made for? (Other than door and window handles in old cars and trucks, of course...)

CD in Oklahoma

I thought they were for keeping tired hydraulics from letting the trunk close?

They are for changing the channel on old TVs!