Kenmore 158.17540
#13
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Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 15,506
It could also be broken - I just had to replace one I was working on - it was stuck about half way.
#14
Super Member
Join Date: Mar 2012
Location: Thornton, Colorado
Posts: 1,023
I just bought this machine at a thrift store today, the stitch length is real short and the stitch knob, or the one I think is the stitch length knob does not change the stitch at all. I hadn't oiled it yet, it runs real good. Has anyone had this problem or has this machine? I really need a manual. I will try the Sears web site. Do any of you have a suggestion on where to find a manual?
Google Kenmore 158 series. A bunch of websites will pop up. I did a little digging around with the model number and found mine was made in 1977. A manual came with my machine, but you can download your manual as a PDF. Good luck and enjoy!
Last edited by quilttiger; 07-03-2014 at 04:58 AM. Reason: Typo
#16
Super Member
Join Date: Feb 2012
Posts: 8,091
In my Not So Humble Opinion oiling a sewing machine that is used once a year is like changing the oil in your car every 100,000 miles. It needs more oiling than that.
Remember, sewing machines do not have bearings, the shafts run in polished bores. Metal to metal. The only thing between the shaft and the bore is a microscopic layer of oil. And it won't last a year if you use the machine any amount at all.
I oil mine every 4 to 8 hours of use depending on what I'm doing with it.
Remember this is just my NSHO.
Joe
Joe
Remember, sewing machines do not have bearings, the shafts run in polished bores. Metal to metal. The only thing between the shaft and the bore is a microscopic layer of oil. And it won't last a year if you use the machine any amount at all.
I oil mine every 4 to 8 hours of use depending on what I'm doing with it.
Remember this is just my NSHO.
Joe
Joe
#17
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Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 15,506
Joe, I agree. A machine won't die if it has extra oil but it will die if the friction from lack of oil or dried up oil wears out parts. Case in point. We have a friend who used to be a regional manager for Sears auto services. He had an old Honda. He would have one of his stores change out the oil every week - just checking on the store... Well that Honda had 900,000+ miles on it when he gave it away. He claims it was the maintenance since it died about as soon as somebody quit changing out the oil. So do the maintenance.
#18
Super Member
Join Date: Feb 2012
Posts: 8,091
That is the clue to longevity of mechanical devices. Service and lubrication. I've found the machines that are coated with oil residue are usually quiet and smooth running when finally cleaned and reoiled. Those that are vintage and sanitary usually are cranky and need a lot of work to get running properly again.
Joe
Joe
#19
Member
Join Date: Jun 2014
Location: NY, USA. Originally Birmingham, UK
Posts: 85
Definitely agree. Oiling frequently also flushes out old oil, and thus prevents the buildup of old gummed-up oil/varnish.
Oil generously and often. Too much oil won't hurt a thing, but insufficient oil most certainly can cause problems.
Oil generously and often. Too much oil won't hurt a thing, but insufficient oil most certainly can cause problems.
#20
Super Member
Join Date: Feb 2012
Posts: 8,091
Someone once asked how they'd know if/when they oiled their machine too much. I responded that when the oil drained out the bottom and dripped on their feet they'd oiled it too much. Nobody was impressed with my humor.
You can wipe most excess oil off, but insufficient oil is ...... well, not enough.
Joe
You can wipe most excess oil off, but insufficient oil is ...... well, not enough.
Joe
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