Kenmore 2142?
 

I found this machine in a resale shop. I was looking for something inexpensive for a friend. I found this machine and tests it out, and it seems to have a good stitch and sewed through lots of layers. But there wasn't a manual and when I google Kenmore 2142, it looked to me like there were lots I'd machines with that number. I have 2 questions:
1) the needle is offset to the left. Is that the way it should be?
2) there a toggle ON/OFF dial on the top. When I move it to ON, I was hoping to find it moved the needle back to center, but it appears to make a blind hem stitch. Is this the way it should be? There doesn't appear to be any place for cams, I'm guessing this model is just straight and zig zag, and that blind hem thing.
Can anyone help me with any additional information?
Thanks!!

You can go to SearsPartsDirect, put the model number in, select model, and the manual should come up. The model number will be under the front lip of the machine and will start with 177. 158. or another combination of 3 numbers. Make sure you put all the numbers in.

Yes, left needle position for straight stitch was common for a few years on many brands of machines. Not quilt piecing friendly, but good for garment sewing.

Cari

Left needle is really great if you do a lot of zig zag work.

Right. Not great if you want to piece a quilt. They don't live at my house for this reason.

Thanks for the input, quilters!

I have no answers, but I sure do love the look of that machine. I'm partial to Kenmores, and those colors are SWEET!

Did you find that model number on the motor?

I pass on left homing machines because they are nearly impossible to buy additional feet for. (Yes, bad grammar.)

CL should have some better ones for less $$$.

The only special foot you need for a left needle machine is the straight stitch foot. All the other feet should be normal feet for any zig zag machine.

Cari