1. Introduction and Safety Information
This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and efficient operation of your Kenmore 385.17627 or 385.17630 sewing machine. Please read all instructions carefully before use to ensure proper function and to prevent injury.
Important Safety Instructions:
- Always unplug the machine from the electrical outlet immediately after using and before cleaning, removing covers, or making any user servicing adjustments.
- Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the sewing machine needle.
- Use the proper needle plate. The wrong plate can cause the needle to break.
- Do not pull or push fabric while stitching. This may deflect the needle, causing it to break.
- Never operate the machine with any air openings blocked. Keep ventilation openings of the sewing machine and foot controller free from the accumulation of lint, dust, and loose cloth.
- Do not operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is being administered.
2. Parts Identification
Familiarize yourself with the various components of your sewing machine:
- Spool Pin: Holds the thread spool.
- Thread Guide: Directs the thread path.
- Tension Dial: Adjusts upper thread tension.
- Take-up Lever: Pulls thread from the spool and feeds it to the needle.
- Needle Clamp: Secures the needle in place.
- Presser Foot: Holds fabric firmly against the feed dogs.
- Needle Plate: Flat metal plate under the needle, with markings for seam allowances.
- Feed Dogs: Move the fabric under the presser foot.
- Bobbin Winder: Winds thread onto the bobbin.
- Handwheel: Manually raises and lowers the needle.
- Stitch Selector Dial: Chooses the desired stitch pattern.
- Reverse Lever: Allows for backstitching.
- Foot Controller: Controls sewing speed.
3. Setup
3.1 Unpacking and Placement
- Carefully remove the machine from its packaging.
- Place the machine on a stable, level surface.
- Ensure adequate lighting for your work area.
3.2 Power Connection
- Connect the foot controller plug to the machine's receptacle.
- Plug the power cord into a standard electrical outlet.
- Turn on the power switch, usually located on the side or back of the machine.
3.3 Needle Installation
- Turn the handwheel towards you to raise the needle to its highest position.
- Loosen the needle clamp screw.
- Insert a new needle with the flat side facing the back of the machine.
- Push the needle up as far as it will go.
- Tighten the needle clamp screw securely.
3.4 Bobbin Winding
- Place an empty bobbin onto the bobbin winder spindle.
- Place a spool of thread on the spool pin.
- Follow the thread path for bobbin winding, typically indicated by dotted lines on the machine.
- Push the bobbin winder spindle to the right.
- Press the foot controller to wind the thread. Stop when the bobbin is full.
- Cut the thread and push the bobbin winder spindle back to the left.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Threading the Machine
- Raise the presser foot and needle to their highest positions.
- Place the thread spool on the spool pin.
- Follow the numbered or solid line thread path, guiding the thread through all guides and the take-up lever.
- Thread the needle from front to back.
- Insert the wound bobbin into the bobbin case, ensuring the thread unwinds in the correct direction (refer to machine markings).
- Close the bobbin cover.
- Turn the handwheel to lower and raise the needle once, catching the bobbin thread. Pull both threads under the presser foot and to the back.
4.2 Selecting Stitches
- Turn the stitch selector dial to choose your desired stitch pattern (e.g., straight stitch, zigzag).
- Adjust stitch length and width dials as needed for your project.
4.3 Basic Sewing Techniques
- Place fabric under the presser foot, aligning the edge with a seam guide on the needle plate.
- Lower the presser foot.
- Gently press the foot controller to begin sewing.
- To secure a seam, press the reverse lever at the beginning and end of stitching to backstitch a few stitches.
- When finished, raise the needle and presser foot, then pull the fabric out and cut the threads.
4.4 Adjusting Tension
Proper thread tension is crucial for balanced stitches. If stitches are too loose or too tight, adjust the upper thread tension dial. A balanced stitch shows equal amounts of upper and bobbin thread on both sides of the fabric.
- If upper thread lies flat on fabric: Increase upper tension (turn dial to a higher number).
- If bobbin thread lies flat on fabric: Decrease upper tension (turn dial to a lower number).
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and smooth operation of your sewing machine.
5.1 Cleaning
- Always unplug the machine before cleaning.
- Remove the needle, presser foot, and needle plate.
- Use a small brush to remove lint and dust from the bobbin case area and feed dogs.
- Wipe the exterior of the machine with a soft, dry cloth.
5.2 Lubrication (Oiling)
Refer to your machine's specific oiling points, usually indicated in the original manual or by small oiling holes. Use only high-quality sewing machine oil. Do not over-oil.
- Apply a small drop of oil to designated moving parts, such as the hook race and needle bar.
- Run the machine for a few minutes on scrap fabric after oiling to distribute the oil and absorb any excess.
5.3 Needle Replacement
Replace needles frequently, especially when sewing different fabrics or if you notice skipped stitches or fabric damage. A dull or bent needle can cause significant problems.
- Follow the needle installation steps in Section 3.3.
- Always use the correct needle type and size for your fabric.
6. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter and their solutions.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Skipped Stitches | Incorrect needle, bent needle, improper threading, wrong needle size for fabric. | Replace needle, rethread machine, use appropriate needle. |
| Thread Breakage (Upper) | Improper threading, too much upper tension, burr on needle plate, poor quality thread. | Rethread, adjust tension, check for burrs, use quality thread. |
| Thread Breakage (Bobbin) | Improperly wound bobbin, bobbin inserted incorrectly, too much bobbin tension. | Rewind bobbin, reinsert correctly, check bobbin case tension. |
| Fabric Puckering | Too much tension, incorrect stitch length, dull needle. | Adjust tension, increase stitch length, replace needle. |
| Machine Jamming | Thread tangled in bobbin area, lint buildup, bent needle. | Clear bobbin area, clean machine, replace needle. |
If problems persist after attempting these solutions, please contact customer support.
7. Specifications
- Model Numbers: 385.17627, 385.17630
- Type: Mechanical Sewing Machine
- Power Source: AC 120V, 60Hz (Standard Household Outlet)
- Motor: Universal Motor
- Stitch Types: Straight, Zigzag, and various utility stitches (specifics depend on model variant)
- Needle System: 15x1 (HAx1)
- Weight: Approximately 15-20 lbs (varies by model)
- Dimensions: Approximately 16" L x 7" W x 12" H (varies by model)
8. Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your original purchase or contact the retailer where the machine was acquired. Kenmore products typically come with a limited warranty covering manufacturing defects.
Customer Support:
If you require further assistance, have questions not covered in this manual, or need to arrange for service, please contact Kenmore customer support or your authorized service center. Have your model number and serial number ready when contacting support.
For the most up-to-date contact information, please visit the official Kenmore website or consult your purchase documentation.
