Kenmore Sewing Machine Model 5154 Manual

The Kenmore Sewing Machine Model 5154 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring multiple built-in stitches, adjustable stitch length and width, automatic needle threading, drop-in bobbin system, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, and reverse stitching. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, Stitch selection dial, Thread tension dial, Bobbin winder, Free arm, Foot pedal, Power cord.

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable table.

1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine by base, not handwheel.
2. Attach foot pedal: Connect pedal cable to machine port.
3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten.
5. Attach presser foot: Lower presser foot lever, snap foot into place.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care. Ensure work area is clean and well-lit.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading guide.

1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through bobbin winder tension, press pedal.
2. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered path on machine, use automatic needle threader.
3. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread clockwise, pull thread through slot.
4. Test stitches: Select straight stitch, place fabric, lower presser foot, press pedal slowly.
5. Adjust tension: Test on scrap fabric; adjust dial for balanced stitches.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle during operation. Always turn off when threading.

Specifications

• Model: 5154 Mechanical Sewing Machine.
• Stitches: 12 built-in patterns.
• Stitch Length: 0-4 mm adjustable.
• Stitch Width: 0-5 mm adjustable.
• Maximum Sewing Speed: 800 stitches per minute.
• Needle: Standard domestic 15x1 needles.
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbins.
• Presser Feet: Included: All-purpose, zipper, buttonhole, button sewing.
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz, 0.7A.
• Weight: 12.5 lbs (5.7 kg).

Controls and Settings

Access controls via dials and levers on front panel.

Main Controls: Stitch pattern dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse stitch lever, Thread tension dial, Handwheel, Presser foot lever, Bobbin winder stop.

Stitch Selection: Turn pattern dial to desired stitch symbol. Stitch Length: 0 for darning, 1-4 for regular sewing. Stitch Width: 0 for straight stitch, 1-5 for zigzag width. Tension: 2-4 for normal fabrics; increase for heavier, decrease for lighter. Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching at seam ends.

Stitch Selection Guide

Use stitch dial to select pattern for fabric type.

1. Straight Stitch (Position 1): General sewing, seams, topstitching.
2. Zigzag Stitch (Position 2): Overcasting, stretch fabrics, appliqué.
3. Three-Step Zigzag (Position 3): Mending, elastic application.
4. Blind Hem Stitch (Position 4): Nearly invisible hems.
5. Decorative Stitches (Positions 5-12): Trims, embellishments.

Tip: Always test stitch on scrap fabric before sewing project.

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

1. Upper Threading: Raise presser foot, raise needle to highest position, follow guide numbers 1-6.
2. Automatic Needle Threader: Lower lever, hook thread through hook, pull lever back.
3. Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through guide, wind onto bobbin until auto-stop.
4. Bobbin Insertion: Open cover, drop bobbin with thread unwinding clockwise, pull thread through slot.
5. Bring Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you until needle goes down/up, pull upper thread to bring up bobbin loop.

WARNING! Ensure presser foot is raised when threading to open tension discs.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug before maintenance. Clean lint regularly.

1. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver to loosen screws, lift plate.
2. Clean feed dogs and bobbin area: Use small brush to remove lint.
3. Oil machine: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to moving parts as per diagram (every 8-10 hours of use).
4. Replace needle: Change after every project or if dull/bent.
5. Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not over-oil.

Accessories

Included accessories stored in free arm compartment.

• All-purpose foot
• Zipper foot
• Buttonhole foot
• Button sewing foot
• Seam ripper/lint brush
• Extra needles (size 14)
• Class 15 bobbins (3)
• Screwdriver
• Spool cap (large and small)

Note: Use only Kenmore-approved accessories for optimal performance.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards. Copyright © Kenmore; trademarks of Sears Brands, LLC. For support, visit www.kenmore.com or contact 1-800-469-4669. This product is designed for household use only.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes if electronic issues occur.

Service: 1-800-469-4669; www.kenmore.com