Legendary Kenmore Sewing Machine Serial Numbers
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If you want to know about the most legendary Kenmore sewing machine serial numbers, you’ve come to the right place. There are so many models of Kenmore, but few have reached legendary status. Let’s start with:
Free Arm Kenmore’s
Kenmore was one of the very last companies to shift from all metal construction to plastic. Therefore, you will find many great Kenmore’s made in the 1970’s. 1970’s Kenmore sewing machines are very highly regarded because they have some modern amenities . Yet, they have the great quality craftsmanship, which the current generation of sewing machines lack.
In the early 1970’s, the free arm Kenmore 158.1941 was rated best. Today, it’s still very highly regarded.
It was rated best, in part, because it has a 1AMP motor rather than the weaker motors found in most other machines of this class. I , however, don’t think it makes too much more of a difference. In my opinion, any free arm from this period is an excellent machine to have.
The free arm Kenmore 158.1625 is a great runner up in this category.
It is a 1977 model machine with a built-in buttonhole.
Both of these machines have the hard to find super high shank feet!
But, this is a non-issue because you can very easily purchase an adapter for using low shanks on this machine.
Kenmore High to Low Shank Adapter P60666
Legendary Kenmore Sewing Machine Serial Numbers in the flat bed category
This is a super hard category to pick a “best” machine in because there are so many greats.
For early era 1930’s + Kenmore models, I’d have to go for the Rotary Deluxe. It is a kind of diamond designs, which means Kenmore was bedazzling before the bedazzle.
In the 1950’s era (much speculation about the production date), I’d have to go for the Creme and Lavender Kenmore Model 54. It is just a beautiful work of art because it reminds me of a vintage Cadillac.
For the later era of the golden age, I’d have to go for the 158.14100. However, there are still many great contenders from this age.
Show Time Kenny Legend goes to….
…Lady Kenmore sewing machine, sold by Pfaff as the model 280. It is a Pfaff at heart and is all metal except for the plastic cams inside. Lady Kenmore is beautiful and makes a wonderful display piece. However, I’m sure someone out there still sews with this beauty.
Best Mini Kenmore goes to…
Hands down, I’d have to say the 158.1050 is the best model of this category. It is the best because there are more stitches and additional external buttons and dials have been moved to the interior of the machine for a more streamline/clean appearance.
However, Kenmore 158.1040 is most legendary because it is in the pea green so reminiscent of the 1970’s era. Due to the green, this machine is sought after. Plus, Kenmore 158.1040 takes standard low shank presser feet. This makes the machine a great buy for today.
Most Known Kenny for embroidery…
The most legendary Kenmore in the embroidery category must go to Kenmore 158.1914. This one comes with so many additional cams and attachments. Amazing! Which Kenmore sewing machines do you love?
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Just trying to find out how old my Kenmore sewing machine is. Model number: 148.19370. I’ve had it for approximately 46 years; purchased new from Sears when I was in high school. It still works extremely well and just want to find out how old it really is. Thank you!!
I’m not sure the exact date because I don’t have the original manual. If you could locate an original manual on ebay or even at sewingpartsonline, you would be able to find an exact date by the @copyright. You have great taste in sewing machines! That one is a beauty:-)
I love my flatbed 158.1813!
Great! She’s a beauty.
I have a Kenmore sewing machine in the cabinet with model number 566.2474. Can you tell me what year it is?
What are the first 3 digits on your Kenmore? The 1st 3 numbers will be an indicator of which manufacturer it came from. If you can get the manufacturer name, you will be able to track down what year was produced. Hope this helps.
Hi Kelli, I collect vintage Kenmores and have a chart I obtained some years ago that indicates your lovely 148.19370 was a 1976 model. One of my machines is a super functional, never-say-die 158-14001, just like the one Mom and Dad gave me as a graduation present in 1969. I keep it clean, properly lubricated and it runs like new. I’ll just bet your 19370 does too! I believe all-metal vintage “Kennies” are some of the best ever made and I love them.
Thanks for this comment!!!
I collect vintage “Kennies”and love them all. Currently, I have nine different Kennies, plus a few duplicates for parts. I have both a 158-1040 and a 1060 in the collection and I’ve been looking to find a 1050 at an affordable price (wish me luck!) I could tell you all nine are favorites but I have a particular fondness for my little 1040 “Piglet” (baby piggies are so adorable!). She’s cute, easy to use, runs very smoothly and will do a lot of different types of sewing. She’s a zig-zag, handles knits beautifully and is a wiz with twin needles, so I use her alot for knit dresses, underwear, and t-shirts, etc. Sometimes I use her for quilt piecing too, but she’ll do just about anything except multiple layers of heavy denim or upholstery material. I have “Bear” a 67 year-old 120-491 for that. He’s a weird, ugly, simply-designed straight-stitch-only beast I found recently and unusual in that he wasn’t made in Japan but here in the USA. His motor is a 1.5 amp monster made by an old division of Chrysler no less. I opened Bear up, cleaned him inside and out, oiled him, cleaned and oiled his motor then set him up with the appropriate size 18 needle. He has a chain drive and growls a bit like a real bear, but he’ll go through 8 layers of denim like butter! I’m going to use him when I make a set of canvas slipcovers for my couch. Guess I like him a lot too.
Do you have a photo of Bear? I need a heavy duty workhorse.
I just bought a new to me Kenmore and having been looking for info.
It came with a manual in French. While looking for an English version I realized there does not seem to be any info around this machine.
158. 1786181
I was hoping to find at the least the date and company who manufactured it for Simpsons-Sears
Any 158 machine is produced by Jaguar/Maruzen. This company primarily made machines in Japan. However, a few of them were made in Taiwan. The vast majority of 158 machines are from the 70’s era. Since there are only slight differences between the sewing machine models, the company often made a single manual for multiple machines. Your machine takes cams, has back facing spool pins, and an accessory tray that removes to expose the free arm. Thanks for visiting this blog 🙂
I have a Model 1201 (148.12011) that was my Grandmother’s machine she bought in 1968 or 1969. I have a 12 Stitch (158.13511) that was given to me from a friend who doesn’t sew. Then my mother has a Model 1803 (158.18033).
Awesome 🙂
I have my grandmother’s 158-10302 that was likely pea green at one point, but now, more olive. Any value to this? Thank you.
As of 2021, these machines aren’t valued. But,158-10302 is a hidden gem because it is lightweight and includes more stitches than Singer Featherweight. To get back the original finish on the sewing machine, you’ll need to place some salon developer creme onto the surface and let it sit out in the sun for a few hours. Simply wipe off the developer with a rag and mild dish soap. Happy Sewing 🙂
I have a 516.890 Lady Kenmore 89 – I’ve been restoring it and it sews smooth as can be and is just a joy to work with. One part left to go for the restoration :)! I have a model 158.1318 that is just wonderfully reliable.
Awesome 🙂
Hi. I have a Kenmore 158 15250. I purchased it in 1978. Can you tell me who and where it was manufactured.
It’s my go to machine, after 43 yrs it’s still the best. I’ve had it “tuned up” a couple of times over the years. Thanks
158 series Kenmore’s were all made by Maruzen / Jaguar in Japan 🙂
I have a Kenmore 117.552. I’m just learning to operate it and I’m amazed at how well it works. Love my new vintage sewing machine.
Awesome 🙂
I have a 158.13414 (made in Taiwan) any idea what year is was made? It was my grandmother’s and I would love to try to find a few parts!
134 models came through in the early 80’s. You’ve got a beautiful sewing machine 🙂 The parts for that model are fairly easy to find online.
ihave a kenmore model number 117-552 serial number 287779 can you give me any info on this machine it is also in a wooden case
Sears contracted White to make this sewing machine in 1952. The crinkle finish was added to reduce glare when sewing.
I think, but I’m no expert and I’m not absolutely positive, that there were some machines produced in Canada. I’ve come across a few over the years and they’re labeled “Simpson-Sears”. Obviously I could be way off base here; it’s merely a possibility but the fact your manual is in French might indicate that.
Quite a few years ago, I found a list of Kenmore machines showing their respective manufacturing dates. According to that list, the 158-178xx models were made in 1974 and 1975.
To Brenda Odom:
Brenda, I may have seen your message earlier but had forgotton (my apologies, I’m getting older) so here’s a link that will show you lots of photos of the machine.
https://www.google.com/search?q=photos+of+Kenmore+120-490&rlz=1C1CHBF_enUS863US863&sxsrf=AOaemvKIfWA1QW0U4kGOzcmF72iNHXbbbQ:1636566720291&tbm=isch&source=iu&ictx=1&fir=EsG1DScs7upvCM%252Cx6IJrf86pQ-VOM%252C_%253Bj6t5jNefWdR5bM%252Cr1G9i2fZ_1eLVM%252C_%253B2KvZ_39EpSHaMM%252CW2SQRJ9M-kavKM%252C_%253BSbeVU3GufTfRfM%252CRDStqOKIh4WNkM%252C_%253BfKo7HV1ldUNukM%252CqsXNFjNLawU-nM%252C_%253BOxQFg1wUq-_IbM%252CNwR5_rh-HbfqMM%252C_%253BOaUxWOsjvwFd3M%252CAHbcxXAnsLgdLM%252C_%253BXz678XJs2nRN1M%252C0PxVIc4xiv7AEM%252C_%253BG8ZAB-weiME-HM%252CpEV9viiU7DocVM%252C_%253B2sWnh2PrgVWe_M%252CKUZDibUWiHFWqM%252C_&vet=1&usg=AI4_-kSNUAAQfR2Y921iRglt2y3QEmDN2Q&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiw742Qro70AhXuhOAKHX_GDucQ9QF6BAgMEAE#imgrc=EsG1DScs7upvCM
I hope she gets to see this sewing machine. Bear is a beauty 🙂
I am looking for a manual and some cams for a kenmore C877.77 model I inherited from my mother when she passed away. Does anyone know anything about this machine. I have looked everywhere in the net. Please help. Thank you in advance for any info.
Most Kenmore models have secondary names. For example, 158.500 is often identified as Kenmore 50. Perhaps, you can look on the bottom or side of your machine to find if there is a secondary name. Then, you can type that in search and see if you get any results. C877.15 manual is free online and C877.781 is over on Etsy. You can look to see if either one of these models is a close match to your sewing machine. Also, design cams are often for sale on eBay without a compatible model number listed. If you remember what the cams look like, you can visually match them to your originals via an online image search for design cams. Wish I could be of further assistance. Thanks for visiting the blog.
I have a lovely Kenmore 158.13031, serial 030019 stamped with a JA and an F on either side of the model/serial tag. Do you know how tell when and where it was made? It was purchased as a gift for me when I was quite young, but I cannot, for the life of me, remember how old I was!
Your wonderful sewing machine was made in 1969 by Maruzen / Jaguar. Thanks for checking out the blog!
I am trying to find out when my sewing machine was made. The model # is 158.13450 and the serial # is 0060322. Is there any way you can help me with this? Thank you
I can’t be 100% sure because my reference doesn’t list a year for this model. However, my best guess would be it was made between 1978-1980. This info is simply from looking at posts from people who purchased this machine when it came out.
I have a 158.19142 Serial #0003712 – perfect condition – EXCEPT: a broken take up lever. I need the replacement part. Any hope? Thanks
You have two different options. 1) You can go to goodwill online or Mercari and purchase the identical sewing machine for parts.2)Find a friend or someone in your local area who does welding & fabrication. Give them the old broken take up lever and have them to cut you a new one on their plasma cutter.
I have a 158.1786281 Kenmore sewing machine and I am looking for a manual for it. What numbers need to match for the manual to cover this maching? thanks
Kenmore often ran one manual for multiple models because each machine was so similar to the other. I don’t see any manuals listing your exclusive model. You may find minor differences in the operation of your machine but something like https://www.ebay.com/itm/362219676767 should be sufficient for your needs. Thanks for visiting the blog.
Love me vintage Singers and awesome Kenmore 158s from the 70s. I have a 1941 an a 1947.
Awesome 🙂
I have a 158-10302 Serial # 0013669. Do you know when my sweet Pea Green Kenny was made?
This model was made from 1971-1973 🙂
I have a Kenmore 158.904. What year was it made?
There was a lady on the Pattern Review forum who said she got Kenmore 158.904 for her sweet 16. In 2021, she turned 71. If we are only going by her information, this sewing machine was made around 1966.
I have a Kenmore 116.531 and need a manual for it, but can not find it any where. Do you know what year it was made?
Your machine was made 1955- 1956. I think was called the Kenmore Commander but I might be wrong. It’s hard to find a manual. This looks like a match for your manual. Try it here: https://ebay.us/5v4B0x
I have a Sears Kenmore 158.15000 heavy duty zigzag. Can you estimate the year of production?
The machine was made 1968-69 by Maruzen / Jaguar.
Hi there! I’ve got a kenmore (simpson-sears) c877.69 but can’t seem to find any information/manual online for it. Its also got a metal plate that reads 16667 on it but i couldn’t find a secondary model number. Let me know if you can help me out!
C877 means this machine was manufactured by Toyota, for the Canadian market. Maruzen made a 158.15 which is virtually identical but is found more commonly in the United States. The 158.15 manual is readily available. Therefore, I would recommend going for 158.15 manual as there are likely to be few differences. You may also have some luck with using this manual here https://www.tias.com/173/PictPage/3923654096.html.
I have a Kenmore sewing machine Model 150.130 serial number 0066908 from my husband’s great aunt. I’m guessing it hasn’t been used in a while but it is a fun pea green color. What might be more impressive is the cabinet it is in. That is definitely a quality piece of furniture. I don’t sew, so I’m not sure what to do with this item.
Wow, that is an awesome model sewing machine and the cabinet is nice too. A lot of people sell their family heirloom sewing machines to others who sew. However, I wouldn’t wouldn’t advise selling at this particular moment in history. If inflation continues or trucking/railroad workers end up going on strike, everyone will have to mend/re-imagine old items. For this reason, I would recommend leaving the sewing machine in its cabinet and using it as an end table or small computer desk. The moto is “Its better to have and not need than to need and not have.”
I have my Mom’s Kenmore model#158.17501 serial# 0026504 and then stamped sideways, it says 684. I see from previous posts that 158’s were made by Jaguar. It is light pea or olive green. It still works great with tune-ups! I am still trying to figure out a year. Can you help? Thanks in advance!
This machine was made 1968-69.
I have a Kenmore sewing machine, model 385.11803800. It’s missing the cover plate and bobbins. Is there any chance I will be able to find these parts? How old is this machine? Serial No.920188413
It’s hard to find information on Kenmore’s 385 series because these models were manufactured by the Janome Sewing Machine Company. I don’t know the year but suppose it was made in the 90’s or early 2000’s. Standard class 15 plastic bobbins will fit this machine and you can find those at any Joann’s, Hobby Lobby, or Michael’s. You won’t have any luck finding parts for your machine using the Kenmore model number because it wasn’t an extremely popular model. Since this Kenmore is Janome based, you’ll have better luck finding parts if you type in “Janome Hello Kitty 11702 Small Size”. Here is a link to the bobbin cover https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/cover-plate-janome-525060000.aspx
My Kenmore model 158-1255181 has ‘Made in Taiwan’ on the number plate. Can you help me narrow down which company made it and when?
I cannot find any information online about this particular model. But from the looks of it, I’d guest it was made in the early 1980’s. To my knowledge, any 158 machine is automatically made by Maruzen / Jaguar. However, the Taiwan definitely does throw things off. I wish I could be of better assistance. But, maybe one of the readers will come across your comment and have more info.
I have a Sears Kenmore, ser# 0048833, model # 158.950, and I’m needing a manual for it. Can you help, please?
Here is a link to the manual https://manualsoncd.com/product/kenmore-158-950-sewing-machine-instruction-manual/
Hey! I found the most beautiful Kenmore today and brought her home. It has model number c877.782 and serial is 31775 It is a zig zag. Any indication on year and maker? It says made in Japan on the motor on the back, but the foot pedal mentions a “shoes machine parts ltd. Toronto”
Your machine is one of those made in Japan but sold in Canada – denoted by the C in the model number. These machines have little to no information on them. The only way to find an exact year would be to either go thru all the Sears Canada Catalogs http://www.wishbookweb.com/the-catalogs/ or to go thru old advertisements until you find a sewing machine that looks like yours. In the future, I hope to do in-depth research and get some answers for you as your not the first person to ask about the c877 machines. I am sorry I couldn’t be of more assistance in the present moment.
My daughter is in need of a sewing machine. I found a Kenmore 385 12908 online. I am inquiring what year this model came out in please and what is its value?
In the late 90’s early 2000’s, I desperately wanted Kenmore 385.12908. But, I just didn’t have enough money. So, I would assume this model first came out around the same time and was sold for a good 5 or 6 years afterwards. Value wise, it is a little hard to make a judgement without seeing condition. However, Kenmore 385.12908 was made by Janome and is of similar quality to the Janome HD3000 sold today. HD3000 sells for $400. So, if you subtract 5% depreciation from each year (2000 till 2023) you’d be paying around $285 for the machine in 100% mint condition. Now if the machine has some wear and signs of use or it doesn’t come with all accessories from time of purchase, I wouldn’t pay anymore than $100. 🙂
Hello! We found a Kenmore 10 Stitch 385 Machine in our house we just bought. It is the model “385.1249380” , Serial number 44089589 . Says it was “Sears, Roebuck and Co,” made in Taiwan. Any chance you know what year this was produced?! It’s in great working condition, still has metal bobbins!
According to quilting board, this machine was made in the early 80s – probably around 1978-1983
I just bought my first sewing machine and I am so excited, but it’s a vintage Kenmore and I’m having a hard time finding anything about. Would you know when this was produced? Model # 385.1154180 Serial # 84020426. Any information is welcomed.
385 sewing machines are all made by Janome and given the Kenmore badge. This is your starting place for research because you can often research Janome sewing machines and find one that looks exactly like yours. Once you find a match, that can be your starting place for research. I hope this helps.
The 1760 is actually better than the 1941! It’s the same exact machine plus it takes cams giving it a whole new range of stitches. Also, the 1050 takes low shank feet same as the 1040 (the way you worded it didn’t make that clear.)
Thank you for providing additional information.
I just picked up a Lady Kenmore 89! I’m very new to vintage sewing machines. The mechanics all seem to run smoothly. I’m afraid I might run into some electrical issues. Waiting on a power cord replacement because the original sort of blew up when I plugged it in…
Fortunately, electrical problems with vintage sewing machines are quite easy to fix – even with limited knowledge of electrical. Your sewing machine is a beauty. It’s awesome that you were able to find this model as they can be very hard to find out in the wild.
Hello, and thank you for the blog on these wonnerful machines. Once you go Kennie, there’s no stitch that compares. One of your posters to this blog, a Mrs. Susan Gabel has VERY generously gifted me with MY dream Kennie (well, one of a growing lineup of now), a 158.1914. I cannot tell you how anxious I am for that delivery. Hopefully tomorrow. She’s getting a very nice custom back pack as an expression of thanks for helping a poor, Kennieless (well, that model anyway) soul out, LOL. In truth; that model is pretty much a Unicorn in my area of the country. Buying one off eBay is horribly expensive too. Anyhoo, my brain went off on a tangent, sorry ’bout that.
I wanted to say that I too revere the 1941. That too was a Unicorn here.
If you found one for sale, it was too far away or way too expensive, so I originally bought a Taiwan made 1251 that was a family owned machine built in 1975 (I saw the original sales receipt from Simpson Sears at the St. Laurent Shopping Centre here in Ottawa.
It had all the same stitches, same wonderful metal gears, same modifier stretch capability, and it was center homing with the extra high presser foot clearance. And it sews like a dream. But…it was not compatible with my plans. So, I used it for a bit, then sent it to a deserving party in another part of Canada. She LOVES this machine. It sews like butter she told me when she showed off the blouse she made on it. It’s now her best friend, according to her.
I could not get a 41 at the time, so I found a 1940. It has all the same stuff that a 41 has, but less “glamour”. Basically, a plain jane version of it. I didn’t like that, so I set out to give her all the 41 abilities. She now can monogram with the accessory. She can chainstitch (I bought a Jaguar bobbin hook with the divot in it for the propeller and modified a center homed straight stitch plate to allow for the chain stitch to work (thank you James Rogers for the idea).
Currently, because a paint repair did not pan out, she’s in pieces, awaiting a very special paint job. Decided I wanted to make her stand out from the crowd.
My 1914, unless she’s badly damaged, and I doubt she is, I’ll leave her natural and unmolested.
The 1940…I want her to make a statement, so I will dazzle paint (a WW1 and WW2 method used on troop ships to confuse submarines as the direction they were going).
I know a lot of purists that are going to not love that, but she came to me heavily damaged in shipping (gouged the removable bed and rear of the bed so that the metal was actually ripped up in both places, so a paint repair was necessary).
This machine sews like a well bred machine should, and I wanted her esoteric to match her performance. Besides, too much almond can make your eyes cross after awhile, LOL. And at 50 Canuck bucks a can (Canadians aren’t important enough to Rustoleum to be allowed to buy ugly outdated paint colours, we’re restricted to black, white and dark grey only) so buying a second can of epoxy appliance paint is out of the question (one can will not be enough to do two coats on this machine, that I now know after painting the few places I did paint.
So, it’ll be interesting to see what happens when I finally finish this project. I’m going for muted, so it doesn’t end up looking like a circus. That I would hate, and she deserves so much better than that, no?
And yes, I’m partially insane, just thought I’d fill in that blank. Suzanne knows just how insane this Kennie Bro gets.
BTW, you now put that Kennie 54 onto my radar. That’s yet another itch I’ll someday need to scratch. Love me some deco!
Awesome blogsite, very glad it’s here. Not sure if it’s still valid, as your copyright date says 2021, but here’s my thanks for the rundown on the Kennies. I always love seeing other people appreciate what awesome machines these are.
Yes, the Kennies are very awesome. Thanks so much for visiting the blog.
I inherited a 158.19412 from my sister-in-law which was originally owned by my late mother-in-law (with the original receipts from 1977; it was around $200 back then). It was hardly used as my mother-in-law developed arthritis and my sister-in-law doesn’t sew much. I just got into sewing late last year with my late aunt’s Janome MemoryCraft 6500. I use both machines, but for different things. I prefer the 1941 for regular straight-stitch sewing as it is a workhorse. It can do 4 layer denim (though, you have to be careful as I bent a needle that way already, I think I was trying 6 layers). The Janome is more for quilting/embroidery and comes with nearly 100 stitches and can do monogramming.
Kenmore is tough to beat from that era.
Wow, you are very blessed because both of those machines are really nice.
Hello Kelli, I’m hoping a late response is better than none. If you haven’t found out already, your beautiful 148- 1937 was made in 1976. I hope you’re still enjoy it – an excellent machine! They definitely “don’t make them like they used to”. With simple maintenance and good care, these machines can carry on for generations.
The 1941 is a very good machine but was never Sears best model. It has a cult following that sort perpetuates claiming it’s the best. It always ranked 3rd in both features and price. The 1913/1914/1980 were the top. Then the 1760/1931. Then the 1941. Also I’d say the 1060 would be at the top of the small models. Unlike the other minis that have the vestigial 2” bed extension, it has a usable convertible bed.
I love the 1060 machines because of the bed extension. However, it sits a lot taller than the other models because of the extension as well. Also, the 1914 is a great model I often recommend. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
I love the 1060 machines because of the bed extension. However, it sits a lot taller than the other models because of the extension as well.
Thank you for the reply. The 1060 sits 1” taller. Just mentioning this for people using this as reference. They should know the difference is 1”. Then they can decide whether that one inch is a lot taller or not. Thanks again.
Hi, Can you tell me when the kenmore 158.1731 was made? And if its in the plastic era?
It was made in the early 70’s. But, I don’t know the exact date. However, you are very lucky because this is one of the sought after models made with all metal except for the internal motor belt gears.
I’m confused – I have a model 158.14310 serial no. 0005870. The chart says it was manufactured from 1975 – 76 but I swear I had it around 1970/71. What am I missing?
The list may not be 100% accurate every time. There are some machines where the dates are a bit questionable. Other times, I’ve found machines missing from the list entirely. Perhaps, you did get it in 70/71 🙂
Thimble – Thank you so much for your supportive comments. I was asking because I want to sell mine. This machine is all metal as well. When I brought it to be serviced, the repair person told me it would likely last forever – it has for me. What would be my best resource for advertising it’s sale?
Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist are both good options for selling your item. But, please do only accept cash or some other verifiable form of payment. Also, please do meet in a public place and/or bring someone with you for safety. Thanks so much for reading the blog!
I just bought a Kenmore 158 1784140 free arm machine from a thrift store today. It is marked Made in Japan and there is a plate at the back marked Simpson Sears. I haven’t found another one with that specific model number on any lists. It appears to be (and us certainly heavy enough to be) all metal, stamped with serial #0001466. Although it’s missing the foot pedal, I feel like I scored huge! I got it for $17.50!!
When I can’t find a sewing machine on any list, I search for it in the Sears catalog archive online. Sometimes, I get lucky and am able to find the machine. Perhaps, you could do something similar. Congratulations on finding such a great machine and thanks for checking out the blog.
My daughter is getting into sewing and I picked up a 158.14311 And was wondering what year was it made. Also is this model rare because I never see any information on the 14311?
It was made sometime in the mid-70’s. The one person I found who has one bought theirs in 1978. It is a machine made by Marzen Jaguar. These machines are not rare at all. However, they are the best of the best when it comes to sewing machines because of the build quality. You’ve got all the modern amenities of a basic manual sewing machine. At the same time, you’ve got the durability of times long gone. This machine will last a lifetime. Really, the only thing I’ve seen go wrong is the electrical going out. But, if you have basic knowledge of how to rewire and solder, you can easily fix a wiring problem.
I have my mothers Sears Kenmore model 148.12501 serial 04903. What year was it made and where can I find an instruction book. Thanks for your help
Made in 1974. The manual is available online from a number of places by using the model number in the google search. Thanks for visiting the blog.
I am on the search for exhaustive list of all metal gear 158’s with additional cam patterns(30 or more), embroidery, and button hole attachment options.
Do any of the 158 swing away arm machines with pattern cam attachments have all metal gears? That would be my first pick as I am fond of the swing away arm. However I don’t like the non-removable bobbin case though. Currently I am on the trail of the 158.1914 series. If I am not mistaken, I think they made the 1914, 19141, and 19142.(if there are more let me know) Do these 3 have all metal gears?
I know they all take cam patterns. Would like to know if I am on the right track.
Thanks kindly for your time,
Alex
Yes, the models you mentioned do have metal gears. However, I would also suggest searching for “Sear’s Best” model 158.19800 because it sounds like a real close match to what you are looking for. It is a hard to find machine, but it is also one of the best ones they ever made.
Hello! I just purchased a model number 158.13571 and can’t find a year of mfg. Sears sheet is blank for the year made. Can someone help me, please?
I don’t know an exact make year for this model. However, I have run across another person who got this machine in 1978 as a graduation present. So, I would assume that Sears made this model in the late 70’s.
What can you tell me about Kenmore sewing machine Model 385 1884180 Serial 92061240? Thank you!
Ill make note of it for the future. Thanks for reading the blog.
Hello. We have a Kenmore 8 – 158.13413 machine which we believe was manufactured for the Canadian market. We found a machine that looks and sounds like ours in a 1981 Sears catalogue which included the number “1341C”. Is this model on any of your lists and does 1981 sound right? Thanks kindly!
This model isn’t on any of my lists. But, the date sounds correct because I had a very similar machine which belonged to my grandmother.
I have a Kenmore model 158.540. Kinda a cream and purple color. Do you know when it was manufactured? Or how I can get a manual for it?
Model numbers: 158.540, 158.541, and 158.542 (aka “54”)were produced sometime around 1965-1968.
Hello. We have a Kenmore 8 – 158.13413 machine which we believe was manufactured for the Canadian market. We found a machine that looks and sounds like ours in a 1981 Sears catalogue which included the number “1341C”. Is this model on any of your lists and does 1981 sound right? Thanks kindly!
Yes, that sounds just about right. 🙂