How to fix Kenmore 385/Janome drop in bobbin fixing the jams

[@armanozzorluoglu6922]

Great explanation Randy. I never knew about the metal bobbin versus plastic. That may have been my problem. I was about to throw my machine out. Thank you..👍

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

You’re welcome and thanks for watching. 😎

[@thevirtualapple]

Your tip about using all purpose thread was the thing that fixed my bobbin problems. Thank you!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

You’re welcome and thanks for watching. 👍🏼😎

[@hummingbirdlady11]

I'll be referring this video to many others as it explains so many things very well.

[@blessedmomma265]

Thank you so very much for replying so quickly. We are thinking that it is the control board because we checked the fuse and it is still good we replaced it last year. I even took it to someone to have it fixed and they couldn't find the problem either and I can't find a control board to buy online. Called Sears and they don't carry arts for this machine. It is in very good condition and I would hate to give it up.

[@conniegraf5464]

Oh my goodness. Your video taught me so much. Thank you!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

You’re welcome and thanks for watching.

[@bldann]

You're a lifesaver! It was a burr underneath the throat plate. I didn't find it until I tried everything else thank you so much!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

You’re welcome. Glad to help. 😎👍

[@bldann]

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 , Do you have a video of how to take the top cover off the Kenmore 385.1653? Or any cover that will get me into the top middle of the machine to get it oiled? It has an intermittent, yet pronounced squeak that I can't find and I believe it's up in the top end.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@bldann yes. It just pops off. Lift on the left side, straight up.

[@bldann]

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954, is that the top cover or the front cover? Are there any screws that need to be taken out?

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@bldann top cover. No screws. pops right up and off.

[@blessedmomma265]

Thank you so very much I appreciate your help and thank you for trying to help people like me out on KZbin. I will check out your video. Thank you once again. Know that you are very much appreciated for your help.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Thanks for your positive feedback. I appreciate you and everyone who is trying to find a solution to their sewing machine issues. I’m here to help if I can. 👍🏼

[@inforestsweheal]

This was very helpful for me. I didn't know about the plastic vs metal bobbin issue with the magnet in my Kenmore 150 stitch. I don't recall reading that anywhere in the manual and I've gone through it quite thoroughly! I think the problem is also that there is etching in the area below where the bobbin case goes in. How would I get in there to clean it up? Or should I just have it serviced? I'm worried that my amateur attempts to address the etching will just make matters worse. I don't know if it's worth the money getting this machine fixed. Thoughts?

[@ekimskaew5304]

Thanks, Randy! This vid helped me and I'm a hero now.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

You’re welcome Mike. Go on and be the hero. 👍🏼

[@daisyrodriguez490]

Thanks you so much you was very helpful with my bobbin situation. My machine is as good as new, also thanks for not screaming like other videos on KZbin lol.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

You’re welcome.

[@maryjager1757]

First, this was a great close-up video which was really easy to follow. It looks exactly like my machine. I did everything you said- checked for rough edges, sanded, using plastic bobbins, changed my needle, but it still jams up. Any other suggestions?

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Check the big three: 1) thread 2) threading 3) needle For a jamming malfunction on that machine, double check your threading after watching my video on “How to thread any sewing machine“. Also, make sure that your thread isn’t oversized. If your needle is new and correctly inserted, it’s probably ok. Don’t overlook the obvious. Most sewing machine malfunctions are cured quite easily. Almost everyone over thinks the solution.

[@maryjager1757]

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 I put different thread in twice, and put a third in and filled a new bobbin. On the third time threading from the top, it worked fine. Crazy. Thanks for replying.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@maryjager1757 you’re welcome. 😎

[@rhondamercado7527]

I’m getting ready to pick up a 24 stitch tomorrow. The lady says that it gets stuck when put in reverse. Any idea what I will be looking for as far as repairing it? Thanks.

[@toneygyrl3479]

Thank you!! I fixed my machine:)

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

You’re welcome. I’m glad to help. 😎👍🏼

[@bobk218]

Hi. Great information. Can the thread gap be adjusted or is a machine limited to a dual duty all purpose thread? Thanks

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

There’s almost always a thread gap adjustment on a drop in bobbin machine. The thread gap needs to be set so that a dual duty, all purpose thread will slide through. If you exceed that setting, the bobbin case will jump out of its proper position and cause another problem.

[@bobk218]

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 Thanks for the amazingly fast reply. Great info.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@bobk218 you’re welcome.

[@deruehead7320]

I have watched This video three times and gone through my machine just as referenced in your video. However, my bobbin is still malfunctioning. There is excess thread as though there is no tension. I have adjusted the bobbin tension as far as it can go. I am using a plastic bobbin. What should I do next?

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

The malfunction is on top. If you tighten the bobbin tension, you make the problem worse. Excess threads underneath are top threads. Make sure you go through the threading procedure that I have in my video on that issue. Test the resistance after you lower the lever. Try again. You can fix it.

[@KellyBlackwood]

what kind of file did you use to smooth out the snags on the black, non metal bobbin case? thanks so much

[@scottkrumbeck]

Bought a Kenmore 385.1764180 at a resale shop, as I wanted to learn how to sew. I realize now, I need bobbins. Any help on what to get? thee seems to be soooo may options. I know i need plastic, but what size?

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

The bobbins are 15 class. Very plentiful as they fit multiple machines.

[@roxannrudzavice6479]

Is it possible to open the top to show me how to replace the top Bobbi winder assembly? I removed mine and didn’t take a picture on exactly how it was and now that I have received the new part, I am unable to put it back in properly. I have a Kenmore Janome series 385 it says model 38519233400.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

I will see if I have one like it so I can show you. Maybe tomorrow if I can find the time.

[@arevchick]

I so needed this!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Glad to help.

[@cherijohnson2723]

I have a 385 18221800. It got jammed , I was able to get the top shaft working after finding some thread stuck around the shaft. After I got the top to turn easily with the hand wheel now the bottom shaft is not moving at all . Have I ruined something? Not able to get the right side off because I am not able to get the knob that selects stich off. The knob is larger than the opening

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

If the bottom shaft isn’t turning and your hand wheel is turning, it’s because your hand wheel clutch isn’t tightened. You tighten the hand wheel clutch and turn the hand wheel AWAY FROM YOU as you hold the clutch release knob simultaneously with the hand wheel. Remove the hook assembly before you do all that.

[@cherijohnson2723]

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 I think the clutch release is just pulling the hand wheel to the right away from the machine. As I turn the hand wheel away from me it makes a clunk every once in a while in the rotation. the belt was off and the lower shaft will not move at all..When I hook up the belt the hand wheel is frozen too.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@cherijohnson2723 it must be in need of lubrication throughout. Take a look at my recent video of the locked up 158 series Kenmore, that took me a couple hours to free up with penetrating oil and much effort. When they are stored a long time and unused, it’s a challenge to put them back in running condition. Be patient though because the 158 series machines are worth the effort.

[@cherijohnson2723]

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 Yes I havent given up on this machine yet. I purchased it a couple years ago at a thrift store, seems to be just like new. It was sewing great and just started slowing down, down, down. Will look at the 158 series video, I hope I can free this up as I love this machine.

[@ericdehart2600]

You're awesome dude 🥂

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Thanks. Sometimes I am. Just not often enough the become a trend. 😎

[@melissa4455]

My brand new Janome 4120 jammed a few times and missing stitches. I called the dealer, and he said he thinks it’s my thread. He said that I should never use one that says all purpose. He just said to get a very fine thread. I have no idea what I should use, since all the rest of the thread is specific to certain things, like quilting, embroidery, etc. The only one that said fine was a bobbin thread. Any suggestions?

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Your dealer is mistaken. Unless your thread is oversized, it shouldn’t cause a problem. Make sure to use an all purpose/dual duty thread or the equivalent size. Don’t use a quilting thread or any thread that is oversized. A fine thread will work as well, but they are generally a bit expensive. I’m guessing that’s what your dealer is recommending. Hmmm? Double check your threading procedure (I’ve a video on that) and make sure to thread it with your presser foot in the UP POSITION. Good luck 🍀 and thanks for watching.

[@melissa4455]

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 thanks for replying. I tried the all purpose thread on regular fabric, and it seems to be doing great. Fleece is the problem. What do you suggest on that? I can do a straight stitch, but I can’t do a zig zag or it misses stitches or jams. Do I need a different thread for that? Or something else? Thanks again!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@melissa4455 make sure you’re using a brand new needle. I recommend using a Singer #2045 in a size 14. You can also use a Schmetz needle that has the word S T R E T C H written on the front of the package. Also get it in a size 14. If you use any other needle, who knows what malfunction will occur.

[@TheEvie202]

Thanks for the tips on threading those kenmore bobbins. Greetings from New York City

[@KellyBlackwood]

what kind of file did you use for the black, non metal bobbin case? thanks so much!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

It’s my diamond file that I use for metal also. It just requires very light pressure. 😎👍🏼

[@KellyBlackwood]

thank you, randy! @@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@KellyBlackwood 😎👍🏼

[@sophietrevino1529]

You're amazing!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Sometimes I am, but not often enough to be a trend. 🤣 Thanks for watching and I’m glad to help. 😎👍🏼

[@ArtistInNewHampshire]

Sensible info, however the 385 Kenmore Janome machine I have has a front loading bobbin. (Full model # 385.15202400) my search continues! Thanks anyway! 🤗

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

I also have a video referencing that issue with a front load Kenmore as well.

[@ArtistInNewHampshire]

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 that’s a great start! I’ll check it out!

[@caliinthevalley24681]

Super helpful thank you. I would love for you to review more machines.

[@inthekitchen8842]

What is the Janome equivalent to Kenmore #385 19233400?

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

I don’t know the answer to that.

[@blessedmomma265]

Does anyone know how to fix the error code 1 on sears kenmore sewing machine model 385? The machine won't sew keeps going back to the error 1 code.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

If you don’t have a troubleshooting section in your manual, go to an online owners forum for that model and see if that’s been asked? If it hasn’t, ask that question to them. Usually someone will have the answer. It could be as simple as needing servicing or a misthreading.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

I did a quick search and found that it could be a control board malfunction or a blown fuse.

[@blessedmomma265]

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 Thank you so much for replying. We are thinking that it is the control board because we checked the fuse and it is still good. I even took it to someone to have it fixed and they couldn't find the problem either and I can't find a control board to buy on line. Called Sears and they don't carry any parts for this machine.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@blessedmomma265 sorry about that. It might be time to upgrade to an older and more reliable platform. Just about any 158 series will do the job. I have a video where I list my recommendations. Good luck.

[@76137somebody]

That looks nothing like my Kenmore 385, mine has the bobbin vertical not horizontal.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

They made many different machines that carry that 385 prefix.

[@bookbeing]

I will never buy a plastic bobbin needle plate machine again. This plastic stuff is a pain!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Indeed.