Kenmore 158

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Kenmore 158

by Christine McPherson
(Bellbrook, Ohio USA)

Christine's Best Friend

I was given a Kenmore 158 around 1970. I have 7 Kenmore machines, 3 (385.'s) which are computerized.

My first 158. (with a 1.2 amp motor) is my favorite machine; powerful and fast, and I use it everyday in my alterations business.

Last year I feared it might break down, although I have never had a problem with it. It's just that I have made and altered so many things with it that it is invaluable to me; so I decided I should try to find another.

I found an exact model that was in mint condition, with all of the original attachments, etc. My Kenmore 158 sewing machine now looks as though it was never used. Now I have a back-up in the event my "first baby" ever breaks down.

My computerized Kenmores are used for light-weight projects; not that they cannot handle heavier work, but they are not completely metal as are the 158's, and work so well on lighter weight fabrics such as what is in wedding dresses, prom dresses, etc. where I need to quickly change stitches.

I have other brands that I keep on "display" in my sewing area; but I will never use another brand for my regular work: my paying customers are too important!

Two years ago I purchased the "mini ultra" for my granddaughter and I am teaching her to sew. It is lightweight, has good power and is just the right size.

My husband just purchased an old "1927 Sears Franklin" friction drive model 23 rotary that is in MINT condition. (Too bad I cannot add a second picture).

I just finished oiling and cleaning it and it purrs like a kitten, sewing a fantastic straight stitch. It is my newest addition to the vintage collection and actually has all of the original attachments.

We have put it in the living room, displaying it with pictures of my family on the fold out table. Beautiful machine. I am a Sears/Kenmore fan for sure!

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Kenmore 158

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Dec 31, 2008
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Can you advise re different models of 158
by: Anonymous

Googling the 158, I find many different versions - do you know anything about these? I am looking for the one with the strongest motor to handle heavier fabrics. MAB

Dec 31, 2008
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Kenmore 158.
by: Anonymous

Hello! The 158.'s that are my favorites are models 1914 (Sears Best) with the 1.2 amp motor and metal construction. You may be able to get a good one on Ebay or Craigslist. Good luck!

Jun 17, 2009
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Need Info on a Kenmore 158 17520
by: Carpenternan@aol.com

I purchased a Kenmore 158 17520 is the model no Serial No.0033383 and I need the book and cams for it and any info I can get it is in a cabnet and seems to be in fair condition hasn't been used it seems like for a long time. I have oiled it and it does sew fairly good. Any help I can get I would appreciste it.
Thanks

Jun 21, 2009
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Buttonhole foot
by: Anonymous

Somehow I lost the Buttonhole Foot for my Kenmore 158. Can anyone tell me how or where to find one. It is clear plastic and flat. Do not want a another machine unless there is no other way. Thanks

Jul 02, 2009
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To previous poster
by: Anonymous

For Sears Buttonhole/attachments all you need is the sewing machine model number (ex 1581234) and you can find out and buy any type of attachments on Sears parts direct. What I suggest you do is find out the correct part and then look on ebay (it is a lot cheaper).

Sep 21, 2009
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Kenmore 158 14100
by: Gudrun Gates

I got my Kenmore sewing machine in 1972 as a gift. It's been as reliable as can be! I have had it repaired twice in 37 years.

It has served me well and although I sometimes look longingly at the new machines, I just love my old Kenmore so much I can't give it up. Right now she needs a belt, but other than regular mainteinance, this will make three times in 37 years that I have had to replace a part. I call that an amazing track record!

It gets used daily as I run a small custom sewing/tailoring business out of my home. I own a 2nd Kenmore that was given to me recently, it is of the same vintage only it has cams. I would definitely recommend a Kenmore!

Oct 28, 2009
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blanket stitch
by: sheilah

I also have a model 1914.

Do you know if it is possible to a blanket stitch or buttonhole stitch with this machine??
I'm into quilting, just started and need to do a blanket stitch..

Sheilah

Nov 17, 2009
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Cabinet to Portable?
by: panda

I inherited a Kenmore 158.14301 about 30 years ago. It's in a cabinet, but i would like to remove it and use it as a portable. Is this possible, and if so, how do I remove it from the cabinet?

Nov 20, 2009
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help me please!!
by: Emilee

I have an old Kenmore sewing machine model #158/serial #0013207 given to me over 30 yrs ago!
It was "lost" by the moving company we used 2 yrs ago...and was just recently found! Problem is the foot pedal was missing and I need one to see if it still works!! Can anyone help me?

Dec 09, 2009
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Kenmore 154 1914 model
by: Anonymous

My daughter was on her way home from work and a man just happened to be putting out his garbage and he was putting out a Kenmore 158 1914. However, she is not a sewer and did not think to make sure that all the attachments were there. The man was moving and of course when she went back to work they had moved. So here I sit with this sewing machine and only one sewing foot and no cams :(. I have tried to look on ebay for all of the attachments but I am not sure which ones are the ones for this sewing machine or if another Kenmore's attachments will fit this machine. I looked for information on it over the internet and found out that it is one of the best for sewing leather and than also sewing fine fabric for prom and wedding dresses. It amazed me so much that even if I should get another sewing machine for Christmas, which seems to be a good possibility, I still want to try and get this one up to snuff and work with it as it is as you have said all medal and with a powerful motor. I have seen several cams and attachments but I am not sure if they would fit this machine. Can anyone steer me or does anyone have a manual that I can copy or somewhere that I can get one for free as I am not even sure if it will work properly. I did find instructions on how to thread it and thread the bobbin, but nothing else is available and I don't want to invest any money into it if it won't work properly. Does anyone have any suggestions or information for me? Any and all help would be greatly appreciated. I think it is the find of the year :), just needs some parts.
Thanks Patty

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Dec 09, 2009
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Submitted by: Anonymous

Title

Comment
My daughter was on her way home from work and a man just happened to be putting out his garbage and he was putting out a Kenmore 158 1914. However, she is not a sewer and did not think to make sure that all the attachments were there. The man was moving and of course when she went back to work they had moved. So here I sit with this sewing machine and only one sewing foot and no cams :(. I have tried to look on ebay for all of the attachments but I am not sure which ones are the ones for this sewing machine or if another Kenmore's attachments will fit this machine. I looked for information on it over the internet and found out that it is one of the best for sewing leather and than also sewing fine fabric for prom and wedding dresses. It amazed me so much that even if I should get another sewing machine for Christmas, which seems to be a good possibility, I still want to try and get this one up to snuff and work with it as it is as you have said all medal and with a powerful motor. I have seen several cams and attachments but I am not sure if they would fit this machine. Can anyone steer me or does anyone have a manual that I can copy or somewhere that I can get one for free as I am not even sure if it will work properly. I did find instructions on how to thread it and thread the bobbin, but nothing else is available and I don't want to invest any money into it if it won't work properly. Does anyone have any suggestions or information for me? Any and all help would be greatly appreciated. I think it is the find of the year :), just needs some parts. Thanks Patty

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Jan 03, 2010
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Kenmore 158
by: Kate

Does anyone know of a decent web site that sells old Kenmore sewing machines? I keep checking EBay but not much luck as usually do not have any accessories with the machines.

Jan 05, 2010
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I still need a manual for sears machine
by: Anonymous

I wrote in here a while back and there are all kinds of inputs as to how good the Kenmore 158 1914 sewing machine is but still no one seems to know where I can find the manual on it or what attachments are for this machine. Does anyone know where I can get the manual for this machine so I can at least try and do some maintenance on it? Any information pertaining to this machine would be appreciated. Thanks

Jan 07, 2010
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Attachments and feet for the Kenmore 158
by: Anonymous

Patty - whose daughter found the Kenmore. I have many attachments and feet for the Kenmore. I believe they may fit your machine. As I no longer have mine, I would be happy to mail you what I have. But first I will check it out with a local sewing machine dealer. They may be able to give me some answers first - before going ahead and sending them to you.

Let me know if you're still interested.

Jan

Jan 07, 2010
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Attachments and feet for the Kenmore 158 by: Anonymous
by: Anonymous

Dear Jan,

Yes I am definitely still interested. I was so hoping that I would not have to throw this machine out as I have heard nothing but rave reviews on it. I did; however, get a new one for Christmas. My husband and kids got me a new Singer Advanced sewing machine. The sales person told her that it was the top machine the next top machine would be an industrial machine.

Jan 17, 2010
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parts for the 1914
by: Annie

I've looked everywhere for the cams. This machine was given to me years ago and I've never used it. Will it do a zigzag stitch without a cam??? I have no parts whatsoever. Looked on Craigs list and e-bay. Please help if you can....nanna@huntel.net. Thanks, Annie

Jan 18, 2010
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To Jan from Patty, sewing machine attachments
by: Anonymous

Hi Jan,
This is Patty. You had said you were going to find out if the attachments for an old sewing machine you had would fit the sewing machine I have and that you would send them to me once you checked to see if the parts were the proper parts. Anyway, I was just wondering if you had any new information for me? Thanks just trying to find the parts and manuals for this sewing machine. Keep in touch Patty :)

Jan 20, 2010
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Kenmore 158 Manual
by: lahondaknitter

I have found a website that has old manuals for many sewing machines, not just the Kenmore 158 like mine. It's http://www.sewusa.com Hope that helps some of you find manuals.

Jan 21, 2010
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Attachments for Kenmore
by: Jan

Hi Patty!

Sorry for the delay. I haven't gotten the information I wanted, as the dealers here don't know much about Kenmores - only their own brands (Brother, Janome, etc.) Also - I've been working on a big room make-over for my husband, which is taking all my spare time. Next week I will have some time to breathe and will try to go to a Kenmore dealer if I can find one. I don't shop much at Sears - but will go to the local store and see what I can find out. I'll let you know as soon as I have some info. I don't know how we can stay in touch other than this site, as I don't think I want to publicize my e-mail address here. I get so much junk mail as it is and my other computer just crashed by opening a bad attachment! Any ideas?
Jan

Jan 21, 2010
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Hi Jan, it's Patty
by: Anonymous

Hi Jan,

Thank you so much for trying to help me with this. I took back the new sewing machine because it was not worth the money. Instead I took my mothers old singer in to be repaired and cleaned by a singer repairman. It is a very old machine but it does sew leather. I also took the Kenmore machine to him as well and he is going to service it as well. I was wondering if you happen to be on face book? If so maybe we can hook up there? I don't know if that would be any better. Do you happen to know or can you insert a photo in here? of the parts that you do have? I got to thinking that I have instructions for the Kenmore and was thinking that I might be able to see if they are the same myself. Well, do what you can and I do appreciate it very much. Take care and I will keep checking the site for your comments.
Thanks
Patty

Jan 21, 2010
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free pdf file sites for sewing machines
by: Anonymous

There are all kinds of sites out there for manuals that are free as a pdf file. However, you have to look through a lot of sites first before you find the ones that are free. Also, it helps to know the machine model, serial number etc. So don't just go on the first site and order one, especially if you are not certain if it is the right one for your sewing machine. Here is a great site with all kinds of free pdf files that may be useful to someone on here. http://blog.sew-classic.com/
Hope it helps
Patty

Jan 23, 2010
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158.19460 Kenmore
by: Pat

I purchased this Kenmore back in early 1970's. It has never failed me until today, January 21, 2010! I'm trying to find a sewing machine repair service here in New Jersey, preferably in North Jersey. Can anyone recommend someone? Think the belt went on it. Thanks.

Jan 28, 2010
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Kenmore model 17520
by: Anonymous

I have recently come across 2 boxes of accessories for a Sears kenmore model 17520. The first box contains a bottonhole cover plate, a guide plate and 9 templates for buttonholes and the instruction sheet. The second box contains 13 attachments that look like plastic gears (I have no idea what they are). The machine these belonged to is well over 30 years old and long gone. if anyone has use for these parts please contact me.

c_m69@rocketmail.com

Jan 29, 2010
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attachmets of Kenmore
by: Anonymous

Hi Jan,

Well, I got my mom's old singer sewing machine back and the man that repaired it did a great job; however, he told me that the Kenmore I brought to him was no good, that it was not worth repairing so I left it with him and he was going to throw it out. Thanks for trying to help me out with this though. I will keep coming back here from time to time as I do get some ideas here and lots of help. Maybe someone else on here can use the parts that you have. Thanks again.
Patty

Jan 29, 2010
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Kenmore parts
by: Anonymous

Hi Patti!

Glad the Singer worked out, but sorry to hear about the Kenmore. Was about to photograph the parts and send on - but will wait to see if anyone else is interested. Have been sooo busy with the room I'm doing for my husband. Almost finished!!! Take care and happy sewing! Jan

Jan 30, 2010
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Kenmore parts
by: Anonymous

Hi Jen,

Yea, I am sorry too as I thought if I got parts I would at least be able to do some zigzag sewing. Well, maybe I will be able to find the zigzager for my mothers singer. It is model 201 a 1950 or thereabouts. So if anyone out there knows anything about this please drop me a note. Thanks all.
Patty

Feb 04, 2010
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Kenmore 158 19142
by: Kristy

I just found this site! To the lady that has some of the accessories for the 158 19142 I have been looking everywhere for feet for my machine. My foot pedal blew up too and I can't find one. My machine is considered, I think, a super high slanted shank.
Do you still have these parts?

Thanks so much for your time,
Kristy

Feb 06, 2010
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158. 1914
by: Christine

For those who are looking for the parts to the 1914 (which is pictured in the above article)you should be searching for the "high shank" feet. They are quite common on Ebay, at flea markets and sometimes on shopgoodwill.com. Don't get rid of the machine if you cannot find the parts. They WILL show up eventually. The 1914 (158) is the best machine Kenmore ever made, with it's wonderful 1.2 amp motor. It is easy to use and comes with a variety of built in stitches. If you are lucky enough to have this machine, you are luckier if you have the monogrammer and cam set, which came with the machines. The cam set has tons of beautiful decorative stitches.

Keep it cleaned and oiled and it should last forever....and don't forget to change your needles regularly.

For the person who wrote asking about the instruction booklet, you can find one on Ebay by keying in "Kenmore sewing machine 1914".

This is an easy machine to use. I have an alterations business and it is easy to switch stitch preferences. I RARELY have a stitch balance problem, even if I go from lightweight fabric to heavy weight fabric.

Feb 07, 2010
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Kenmore 158 1914
by: Anonymous

Christine, now I am really confused. My husband took one of my presser feet to a sewing machine shop and the owner told him it is a super high shank.LOL

Feb 19, 2010
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Parts for Kenmores 158
by: Anonymous

I have 1 158.18030 Kenmore with monogrammer, buttonholer,& cams also the 100 stitch electronic sewing machines.
I have purchased parts from the site below and have been very please with the service especially the response to questions I've had concerning the changing the super high shank so it could use some of the snap on feet that are available on machines today.

http://sewingmachine221sale.bizland.com/store/index.html

This site below has Kenmore parts:

http://sewingpartsonline.com/kenmore-sewing-machine-parts-model-list.aspx

This site below has owner & repair manuals:

http://www.tias.com/stores/relics/

.html

Feb 22, 2010
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Looking for Kenmore ???
by: Lillian

I bought a Kenmore sewing machine back in 1970-71ish that had the two dials on the front and one on the top. It also had a storage compartment that slid onto the base of the machine. I know this is a vague description, but does anyone have any idea what model this might be? I stupidly gave it away a few years ago and now want another one like it. I still have quite a few of the feet. Thanks for any help out there! -- Lillian

Feb 23, 2010
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Kenmore
by: Anonymous

Is this the one you are looking for?

http://cgi.ebay.com/KENMORE-SEWING-MACHINE-158-14510_W0QQitemZ290405693229QQcmdZViewItemQQptZBI_Sewing_Machines?hash=item439d87372d

Feb 23, 2010
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KENMORE
by: Anonymous

Is this the one you are looking for?

http://cgi.ebay.com/KENMORE-SEWING-MACHINE-158-14510_W0QQitemZ290405693229QQcmdZViewItemQQptZBI_Sewing_Machines?hash=item439d87372d

Feb 23, 2010
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Kenmore
by: Anonymous

Lillian, look on Ebay under Kenmore sewing machines. I think the one you are looking for might be there. I tried to copy and paste the link but was unable to. Good luck.

Feb 24, 2010
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158/14301 Manual
by: Anonymous

I downloaded a owner's manual @ Kenmore.com. Under Customer Care click on Owner's Manual, managemylife appears click on "view manual" and you can print out all 50 pages.

Feb 24, 2010
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Mar 01, 2010
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Looking for Kenmore???
by: diana

http://www.flickr.com/photos/47969114@N02/?saved=1

See if you can open this link. Photo of Sears Kenmore Model 158.10500 purchased in 1971 recently cleaned and oiled, and still running well!

Mar 03, 2010
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monogramming
by: Darlene

I am looking for help using Kenmore monogramming templates. I have model no. 251.9750180 machine, but I don't know if I have the right machine. I have never monogrammed anthing. Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks Darlene