Kenmore sewing machine question
 

http://images.craigslist.org/00v0v_g...Dm_600x450.jpg



I am going to look at this machine next week. She is asking $30. What do you all think??? A good deal??? She said it was her grandmother's and still works

If the machine works I would have no problem with $30.00. If you do get it see if the manual is with it or can be found.
If not you'll need to hunt one up. Kenmores of that era are excellent machines, but to get the most out of them you'll need the manual.

Joe

I haven't had that particular model, but I looooove the old Kenmores. I have four, because I can't resist when they're reasonably priced. I way overpaid for my first one ($120, I think), but I bought it from a sewing-machine repairman after my plastic Singer burned out in six months. My others have all been $60 or less, and I got one with the cabinet for $40, so I think $30 is a good price. Does it come with anything else, like the manual? Try running it to see if you like the sound -- mine have different sounds based on the motor, and I like one much less than the others for that reason. Check to see if it uses low-shank feet, which are the easiest to find. Does the seller have the cabinet? You can only use a Kenmore cabinet with it, and I haven't had trouble finding them on Craigslist, but I live near a big city. Good luck!

If you do look at it can you please find out what kind of bobbin case it takes?
That is a 158.1310 Kenmore. But side loading bobbin.

I know of one nearby without a bobbin case. A 148.xx.
"Side loading" bobbin cases are one kind.
"Kenmore" bobbin cases for 158.xx Kenmores are another.
I have guessed it will take a 'side loading' case but I am not sure at all.

Quincunx,

It would be this one:

{ http://www.shop.sew-classic.com/Bobb...ger-JO1313.htm }

Basically the determining factor is front or side loading, not brand names.


Joe

Check the needle orientation to see if it's a left homing only. I have a White 2334 zig zag that is left homing and have a difficult time making straight 1/4 " seams. I use my other machines for quilt piecing.

Left homing does not bother me at all. I am making clothes. A lot easier to fit clothes under the machine when I absolutely have to. Or sew in reverse.

And yes, the 148 mystery Kenmore is a 148.1217 and now home with me. Thank you J Miller for the confirmation. I am putting together an order now.

And I think you should bring help when you go to look at the machine in PA. This is indeed a heavy metal instrument. I think I may name it Ian.

Quincunx,

Don't worry, it's not a left homing machine. I do know there are lots of Japanese made machines that are LH, but I don't personally know of any of the later ones like your 148 series that is.

Joe

The older Kenmores are definitely heavy- and solid and reliable. Easy to find replacement parts, and you can find a foot adapter to use snap on feet from other machines if you'd like. I think the price was fine, and hope you enjoy using it.

I have this machine and I love it . I have sewn things with this machine that only an industrial machine can do . It never let me down. If I could fine more at that price I would buy it in a heart beat.