I ran across this, 2 years after your posting. You've probably already solved your problem or have gotten rid of the machine by now, but I have a Kenmore 1980 sewing machine. I absolutely love it! Although it has a lot of age on it now and knocked off the table at least once, it still runs. It does have some issues, but expected with age and the abuse it has received. I've never had problems with the feeddogs. I would assume the problem is beyond setting the pressure, located under the lid. I would like to find another Kenmore 1980 machine that I can use for parts, so if anyone knows where I can get one, please email me.

Actually Sabrena, since the machine was my mother's, who has passed, I am not willing to part with it. I still have not gotten it repaired, but am planning to soon. :) So it sits, unused but still loved, waiting for repair.

Hi Charlee,
I was looking at my Kenmore 158.1247 and I can see how the dogs can stick in the up position. Mine rides on a square roller and seems as if gravity returns it to the down position. Could be different from yours though.

Good Luck
Jon

Thanks Jon! The spousal unit doesn't want to tackle it, and I don't do anything more than the really simple stuff, so it waits to go to a OSMG that I can trust (when I find one! :D )