Originally Posted by Rat
Yah they are!
Yah they are!
Picked up this sweet Craigslist find today. I've been looking for the right machine for a while. Couldn't quite pull the trigger on a plastic rig and the Vintage Singers were going in this area for more than I really felt comfortable with.
Have to replace the belt, clean and lube the internals and do something with the vintage wiring and she'll be ready to roll.
KenmoreModel54.jpg
IMG_1509.JPG
Older Kenmore Rotary from 1939. Picked her up for free from CL. Original owner wasn't sure she still ran but after several nights of cleaning up with rubbing alcohol and lots of q-tips, a rewire, and some minor parts replacements, she's back up and running. Completely stripped, sanded, and re-finished the cabinet while I was at it. I really should revisit the wiring with some sheathing, but it's ok for now.
IMG_1513.JPG
Beautiful! Nice work!
That will be a fine diy machine. I've got mostly singer machines and one Kenmore. Looking to pick up one more Kenmore when I find the right one at the right price. Those Kenny's sometimes have a little stronger motor 1 or 1.2 amp compared to the vintage singer's .72 amp motors (in the slant-o-matics). But then again, probably don't need more motor than what the singers have in 90% of what you would diy.
Last edited by Wkerber; 09-13-2014 at 08:03.
Bill
With the exception of the Pfaff industrial, of all the machines I've had the very smoothest and fastest stitcher was a Kenmore. Don't overlook them in your searching.
Machines in general with the bobbin on the side are going to be faster and smoother. The top bobbin adds more parts and complication to the machine.
I started out looking for the top bobbin machines because they would be easier to change bobbins, and they are, but the side bobbin machines are fine.
In general, machines with an internal motor are newer, and more likely to have plastic gears.
In the last month I have caught the bug and I really like the vintage Kenmore machines. I would like to start a specific thread to show off and discuss these machines. I started with the model number followed by the year or years they where manufactured. Additionally if someone can recommend what they think the best Kenmore's to have are would be great. Here is what I've accumulated in the last month. So far I'm only using the 1947.
158.19470 (1975-1976)
158.14100 (1971-1972)
158.13011 (1969-1969)
158.13033 (1969-1971)
Last edited by Koolranch; 09-13-2014 at 09:59.
Just a note to everyone. I merged the above post/thread with this thread. Here is my thinking.
Although sewing machine discussions have been allowed in the 'Do-It-Yourself (DIY)' forum, it is technically an "off topic" subject. As such, I think it is best if we 'sewing machine folks' don't push our luck with separate "Show Us Your ***" threads.
There are many forums/groups for each make of machine for those desiring more in depth, make specific info.
Thanks for understanding.
Silly me, I've been looking for the Kenmore thread since I read Koolranch's post... Thanks for the heads up.
"I aim to misbehave." - Capt. Mal Reynolds
Mind of a Rat Youtube Channel
Today I scored a second Kenmore 117-958 off of Craigslist. It's a honey. I may never touch my wife's Huskvarna again.
Posting Permissions
Reply With Quote
Bookmarks