Kenmore 158 trouble
 

I got this machine a couple months ago (some of you may remember), and until now I haven't had any spare time to sit down and really sew with her. Finally, now that I have a bit of time, I find out that I can barely see at all with her. I've re-cleaned and oiled, adjusted the tension (which did allow me to see some patches on denim), but anytime I try a lighter fabric (yes I changed the needle), I get nothing but either bird nesting, or it won't make any stitches at all....just holes where the needle had moved through the fabric. I cleaned out the shuttle well, and I can't find any issues there. When I go back to a heavy material like denim, it will sew, but often seems to bog down at times (only 2 layers), like it's getting stuck, only to quickly take off again like a rocket. I can see denim, but not smoothly like i should be able to. I mean, my first cheapo plastic Black Friday Brother sews better than this Kenmore!
I have also noticed that the needle often strikes the plate, but I can't figure out why? Anyone have suggestions/thoughts? I really loved this machine when I first got her up and running, and now I'm ready to toss her to the curb! Please help!

Get a new needle and turn the needle around the other direction.

sound like a problem with the needle to me too -

If you put the needle in backwards it will do just what you described. Can you post a picture of the machine so we can help you orient the needle? Generally if the bobbin is in the front the needle will insert flat side to the back of the machine. If the bobbin is on the left the needle will install with the flat side to the right. If it is a Singer anything goes. Not really but that might be enough info for now.

GET AN OWNERS MANUAL and read it. You're basically lost with a Kenmore and no manual.


Joe

Ummm, I have the original manual, and of course I've read through it. How is a post like that supposed to be helpful? NO NEED TO SHOUT IT EITHER, I CAN OBVIOUSLY READ!

The needle is in properly...I initially thought this was the issue as well. I've even tried different brands, still no change.

Can you shoot some pictures? I'm not shouting.

No no....I appreciate your help Miriam and Macybaby. It was Joe's post that I found mildly rude.

I'll get a pic on here shortly. ;)

Never mind Joe - he doesn't feel good.

Hehehe, Miriam!

Here is a pic of the needle, the needle dropped down, then I turned it so you could see the needle type, and that the flat side was towards the back, and a pic of the bobbin.

If you see something wrong, please let me know. If you need more pics, I'll get some. :)