20 Most Recent Kenmore 15516 Mechanical Sewing Machine Questions & Answers

Where is the model number on Kenmore machines?

Needle in correct? Be sure your bobbin is not in upside down and turning the wrong way. Possibly the hook that the bobbicase fits in/on has been hit by a needle and caused a burr that is catching the thread as it comes around. The burr would have to be polished off or hook replaced. The machine could be slightly out of time also.

Those round items are more than likely stitch cams. I had an older model similar to this and my machine would run zig-zag or straight stitch without any cam installed. Being that your machine is older, I'm wondering how long it has been since it has been cleaned and thoroughly oiled, These old machines tend to be forgotten for long periods of time and the oil dries out causing the machine to seize. It is important to keep them oiled EVEN when not used. To avoid damaging your machine, give it some well-appreciated TLC. You'll be amazed at how well it will run! Wheel on right side that controls the needle up and down is very tight...

Hi,

What is the length set at?

Are the feed dogs visible at the needle plate?

What does the design look like in the pattern box?

Have you tried it on the straight stitch to see if is effected also?

Bonnie

you might take it to a sewing machine shop and see if they can tell you anything about it..

There should be a screw on the side of the bobbin also a screw on the bobbin holder so that you can ajust so you can time the mechin

Is it not working at all or just some of the time? If it is picking up the thread some of the time then the height of the needle might need to be adjusted if the needle is new and good. First change the needle and see if that fixes it but if it doesn't then you may have to bring the machine in to have someone adjust the needle height so that the needle and bobbin are hitting where they are supposed to. Good luck

Sounds like the drive from the motor to the needle head has worn or is broken. You really need an engineer for this one. Hope this helps.

have you try the yellow pages of your phone book for a repair shop

See about getting an instruction manual : www.kenmore.com/kenmore-sewing-machines.../b-1040031

If you turn the handwheel by hand is it stiff?

If you can grab the hand wheel and move it right and left, then it probably needs a plastic collar that goes next to the left upper shaft bushing. If not then the cam timing needs to be adjusted.

Make sure you are using a correct needle, that it is inserted correctly, that it is threaded correctly, and that top tension is set correctly. Any of those four things will cause that. Other than that, it might be a timing issue which calls for a repair person.

Maria I have a Kenmore 15611 and had the same problem. One thing I did was use channel lock pliers be sure to use heavy towel to keep from scratching. Do not remove the little screw on the clutch wheel. I did this and now the needle won't go up and down. Still need solution.