Left homing does not bother me at all. I am making clothes. A lot easier to fit clothes under the machine when I absolutely have to. Or sew in reverse.
And yes, the 148 mystery Kenmore is a 148.1217 and now home with me. Thank you J Miller for the confirmation. I am putting together an order now.
And I think you should bring help when you go to look at the machine in PA. This is indeed a heavy metal instrument. I think I may name it Ian.