sears kenmore 5185 sewing machine manual

The Sears Kenmore 5185 is a versatile electronic sewing machine featuring multiple built-in stitches, automatic buttonholer, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in needle threader, and reverse stitching. It operates on standard 120V AC household current and includes a foot pedal, accessory kit, and instructional materials. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Stitch Selection and Settings 8. Basic Sewing Techniques 9. Maintenance and Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main sewing unit with free arm, Foot Pedal, Power Cord, Accessory Box (presser feet, bobbins, needles, seam ripper, brush), Spool Pins, Thread Cutter.

Feature	Description
Built-in Stitches	Multiple utility, decorative, and stretch stitches
Automatic Buttonholer	One-step automatic buttonhole
Adjustable Stitch Length/Width	Dial controls for customizing stitch size
Free Arm	Removable flatbed for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Drop Feed	Lowers feed dogs for darning, quilting, and free-motion sewing
Built-in Needle Threader	Assists in threading the needle easily
Reverse Stitch Lever	Reinforces seam beginnings and ends
Stitch Selector Dial	Selects desired stitch pattern
Power/ Light Switch	Turns machine and built-in work light on/off
Bobbin Winder	Winds thread onto bobbin automatically

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack all components and inspect for damage. Place machine on a stable, level surface.

Remove machine from packaging and all protective materials.
Attach the foot pedal cord to the machine's pedal jack.
Plug the power cord into the machine and then into a 120V AC outlet.
Install the accessory box and thread spool pins as needed.
Raise the presser foot lever and install a needle (flat side toward back).

WARNING! Keep fingers away from the needle area during setup and operation. Ensure the machine is unplugged when not in use.

First-Time Operation

Plug in the machine, turn on the power switch, and follow these steps to begin sewing.

Wind the bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension disc, wind onto bobbin.
Insert the bobbin: Open bobbin cover, drop in bobbin (thread unwinding counterclockwise).
Thread the upper thread: Follow numbered threading path from spool to needle.
Use the built-in needle threader to thread the needle eye.
Pull up the bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to bring up bobbin thread.
Select a stitch using the stitch selector dial.
Place fabric under presser foot, lower presser foot lever, and gently press foot pedal to sew.

CAUTION! Always turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) only. Never force the machine.

Specifications

Model: Kenmore 5185
Type: Electronic Free-Arm Sewing Machine
Stitches: Multiple built-in utility, decorative, and stretch stitches
Buttonhole: One-step automatic
Stitch Length: Adjustable up to 4mm
Stitch Width: Adjustable up to 5mm
Feed Dogs: Drop feed capability
Needle Positions: Multiple (center, left, right)
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Included Accessories: Assorted presser feet, bobbins, needles, seam ripper, brush, screwdriver, darning plate

Controls and Functions

Main Controls: Power/Light Switch, Stitch Selector Dial, Stitch Length Dial, Stitch Width Dial, Reverse Stitch Lever, Presser Foot Lever, Handwheel.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to desired stitch symbol. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter or longer stitches (0 for darning). Stitch Width: Adjust for zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse Stitch: Hold lever down to sew in reverse. Presser Foot Pressure: Adjustable for different fabric weights (consult manual).

Stitch Selection and Settings

Refer to stitch chart on machine or manual. Common settings:

Straight Stitch: Center needle position, length 2.0-2.5 for medium fabric.
Zigzag Stitch: Adjust width for seam finishing or appliqué.
Stretch Stitches: For knits and elastic fabrics.
Decorative Stitches: Use with appropriate thread and stabilizer.
Buttonhole: Use automatic one-step buttonhole foot.

Tip: Always test stitch settings on a scrap of your project fabric first.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Follow these steps for common sewing tasks.

Seaming: Use straight stitch with appropriate length. Guide fabric edges along seam guide.
Reverse Stitching: Hold reverse lever at start and end of seam to lock stitches.
Zigzag Finishing: Set to zigzag stitch and sew along raw edge to prevent fraying.
Buttonhole: Mark button placement, attach buttonhole foot, select buttonhole stitch, and follow automatic cycle.
Free Arm Sewing: Remove accessory tray to access free arm for sewing sleeves and cuffs.
Darning/Quilting: Drop feed dogs, attach darning foot, move fabric manually.

WARNING! Keep fingers clear of moving needle. Do not pull fabric; let feed dogs move it.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Unplug machine before any maintenance. Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance.

Remove needle plate screws and lift off needle plate.
Use small brush to remove lint and thread bits from feed dogs and bobbin area.
Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
Oil sparingly as indicated in manual (specific points only).
Replace needle regularly (every 8-10 hours of sewing).

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air or liquid cleaners. Never immerse machine in water.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © Sears Brands, LLC. Kenmore is a registered trademark. For support, contact Sears Customer Service at 1-800-469-4663 or visit www.sears.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine does not run	Power cord, switch, foot pedal	Ensure machine is plugged in and power switch is on. Check foot pedal connection.
Thread bunching underneath	Incorrect threading, bobbin	Re-thread upper and lower threads. Ensure bobbin is inserted correctly.
Needle breaks	Wrong needle, bent needle, incorrect insertion	Replace needle (flat side toward back). Ensure needle is fully up in clamp.
Uneven stitches	Thread tension, needle size/fabric mismatch	Adjust thread tension. Use correct needle type and size for fabric.
Fabric not feeding	Feed dogs lowered, presser foot pressure	Raise feed dogs. Check/adjust presser foot pressure.
Buttonhole not forming	Incorrect foot, settings	Use automatic buttonhole foot. Ensure stitch selector is on buttonhole symbol.

Reset: Turn power off and unplug for 60 seconds if electronic controls malfunction.

Service: 1-800-469-4663; authorized Sears service centers only.