Sears kenmore back in the early 1970's offered a high shank machine the 158-17032. That is the one I got for my high school graduation. The shank is obviously taller and not short. Then I acquired a short shank machine, as its easier to get parts for it like a walking foot and monogram attachments.
There is a distinct difference. All the parts I can share beween the 2 machines, except for the presser feet. At the local Sears store here in Phx, AZ there is a pkg of 4 you can buy the the short shank machine. There is an open toe walking foot with its attachable quilting bar, then a open toe darning foot, another piece called a toe craft foot and a ditch quilting foot. I use the walking foot alot. Its Kenmore #6702, all 4 attachments for a total price of about 30.00 only at the actual store.
If you look on Ebay they are selling each foot for that price. If you do your research you can find it less. The pkg says for only an horizontal sewing machine, yet it only fits my low shank machine.
If the shank is over an inch tall, its a tall or high shank, if it even looks short or stubby, then its a low shank machine.
Everything else is obviously interchangable. The Sears store here in Phoenix, the one in Arrowhead Mall or Paradise Valley Mall has this pkg of 4 for only about 30.00 total. I can get one for you if you send me funds and shipping money. from, Debbie, Phoenix, AZ