Help with a vintage machine
 

I was recently given a UHT J1277 Montgomery Ward machine. I believe it was made in the 70’s. I teach quilting and would like to use this for beginners. I cannot get the needle to move to the left. I have a feeling it is something simple, but for now it keeps hitting the plate. Any help? Thanks

Welcome from western NY and happy quilting :)
sorry, i can't help with your machine

Welcome from Michigan!:) Sorry can't help with the machine either.

:) welcome from se TX -- good luck with the machine

welcome - you may want to hop over to the Vintage Section and post your question there. These machines usually have pretty obvious LCR settings, but there may be a cam inside that needs to be removed, or it's simply stuck and needs more lubrication. It's also possible someone put the wrong needle plate on it.

I did a quick google. There have apparently been a few threads on this site about that machine. You might want to do a search on QB.

If this is a zig zag machine, are you sure you have it set for straight stitch? I'm assuming that you want the needle in the center position.

Look at your stitch width knob and see if it is in the correct position.