Originally Posted by Blackberry

Goodness knows and my DH also, that I do not need another sewing machine. I counted my sewing machines yesterday and this purchase makes #41. I definitely will be trying to find new homes for some of them when the weather warms up a bit. It is my usual custom to check CL everyday and today I found this Kenmore that was being sold for parts for $20. The gentleman didn't know anything about sewing machines and the needle bar would not move very far either way so he figured that it was only good for parts. It looked to be in pretty good shape and I figured it just needed some TLC as well as oil. It was in a nice Sears cabinet. My DH got to work on it last night and this morning it is humming right along. All of the knobs turn easy and it sews a lovely straight stitch. I have a question about the hole in the front that I think should have some kind of knob in it but maybe it was just a name faceplate. Also I can't figure how it would sew backwards except that maybe there should be a knob for the hole that would regulate the back stitching. If this is true by what name should I be looking for this part. What kind of cams does this machine take? I think it is convertible to a chain stitch but now sure if I have all of the parts for that. I also cannot get the knob at the bottom right of the machine to turn. I think it lowers the feed dogs. I didn't get a manual or any feet except the one that was on the machine. It was also missing the bobbin holder so I don't know what size of bobbin holder it would take. I have a 158-17550 and I would like to know if I could follow this manual for maintenance. Lots of questions, huh?