Yep, I have a Kenmore that you have to turn it's light on or it won't go. turn the light off and the machine is off.

Very common for Kenmore - some Singers do that to you too.

Definitely the timing... Good luck.

My Pfaff is the opposite way. Turn the main switch on, the light comes on. Then I burn my hand about 20 minutes later. I took the bulb out and it still runs, so as far as I'm concerned it's "fixed". ;) I use LED lights in the arm or a bendy light anyway, I don't need that old yellowed light shining on my work.

You can check if it is timing here:
I showed it using a vintage machine, but the principle is the same:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lT98wbDLVco

It's a video I made, and it's safe. I know lots of people don't like to follow youtube videos for some reason.

LOL So i'm probably not the only one who leaves the burnt out bulb in my Kenmore. I use an external lamp with a bendable neck instead. :D

nope you are not alone - IKEA makes some very nice LED lights

I want an IKEA store. Think St. Louis is to get one in 2015.

Me too - we have to drive clear to Cincinnati if we want to shop

Thanks for all the suggestions --I was the one that tried all the usual stuff listed in the second sentence. After I read this post I talked to owner but we couldn't get together because her husband got sick. Expect to see her next Wed at our work day if he is feeling better. She took the machine home and I wish she would hunt for her manual in case I do have the new needle in wrong.
If I get it working in next few weeks I will write and tell you all. If it's the timing she will have to wait til she goes to the big city. I had mentioned to her about the light but she didn't believe me.

I love Ikea but it's over 2 hours away. lol