How to Re-assemble the hand wheel clutch: The Sequel

[@stormyrayn2104]

You could say that 10-2-6 is almost like a Bad Company album titled 10 from 6. I completely understand the Dr. Pepper reference. Keep making these great videos. They are extremely informative and helpful.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@stormyrayn2104 plus points to you for the Bad Co reference. Thanks for watching and adding interesting commentary to the discussion. 😎👍🏼

[@karenb5579]

Just wanted to say THANK YOU! I also wanted to say... people can be ridiculous. Your first video on this was fantastic and super clear. If people are having issues, that is on them, not you... or possibly their machine has bigger issues. You are an excellent teacher and I really appreciate what you do.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Thanks. I appreciate your comments. I’m just trying to help.

[@antoniokinsey4041]

You’re a great Kenmore Sewing Machine teacher! Thanks

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@antoniokinsey4041 thank you for watching. I appreciate it. 😎👍🏼

[@heyalicia2551]

Took me several tries to get the tabs oriented correctly but finally got it right and machine is working correctly. Thanks for the tutorial!

[@ericfriesen4324]

Hey Randy, your simple advice on the crankshaft having a little “glaze” on it helped me out. My wife’s clutch would not fully disengage and she was frustrated. I found your video and listened all the way through and heard your comments. A couple drops of oil and working it back on the shaft and it’s now working. Good job!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

You get the attaboy on this one. Well done.

[@MrsBennett67]

Thank you Randy! I have been struggling with my 158.13470 since I bought it back in November. It wouldn’t wind bobbins and I could NOT get the knob off to save my life! Turned out someone previously had put it on incorrectly. Now it’s working perfectly thanks to your clear instructions and demonstration. Well done! 👍🏻

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

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

[@2cinco7]

Thanks Randy. Your explanation is crystal clear in this and the first video on this topic. With your help I was able to fix my machine’s problem. The comments confirm that most of your audience feels the same way. Good work!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Thanks for your kind words. You’re welcome.

[@pookiebear9200]

I appreciate you very much! I have followed you for years. There is an old saying “ No good deed goes unpunished.” You are helping many people. But there always will be a few who can’t simply ask for clarification, they have to be “ Snarky”. Keep the videos coming!!!!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

You’re welcome. I’m known to be a bit snarky on occasion myself, but usually in a defensive way. I try not to instigate the snarkiness. But I’m not saying it never happened either. LOL

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Thanks. 👍🏼

[@iratherbeinaz]

Thanks for your help. I had to take my mom's old machine apart. Your directions got the job done!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

You’re welcome. Glad it worked out well.

[@irenearbuckle4744]

LOVE your videos . And I totally understood your Dr. Pepper reference of 10, 2 and 4. So keep on keeping on👍🏻 and keep your informative videos coming!! Your channel is well done. Direct, to the point and not a lot of chit chat!! Look forward to learning more. Thanks!!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Thanks for your kind comments.

[@tatchik77]

Your videos are very helpful & if people don't think so nobody is forcing them to watch!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Thanks. I appreciate your support and thanks for watching. 👍🏼😎

[@lamiadave7164]

Thanks so much for all of your efforts to help people with their machines. I really appreciate it and I enjoy watching your videos. They are very informative.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Glad to help.

[@cynthiacombs9506]

Thank you so very much for your videos. I've wanted to better understand my old Kenmore machine for ages, and now (thanks to you) I do! I haven't gotten all of my clutch issues resolved, but I feel like I'm well on my way. And she sews! It's just the bobbin winding process that need refinement. Away THANK YOU AGAIN!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

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

[@Idaho-Idaho]

Thanks for the video. I found the washer on the floor after I took the assembly apart. This confirmed where it goes. I have gotten to love these old Kenmore's (have six or more right now). I started out with Elnas, moved to singers, now am sold on old Kenmore's. For those that want to know which old machine to get: a 158 series Kenmore.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Very good. Glad you’ve got it figured out. 😎👍🏼

[@franloera5608]

Thanks Randy; your suggestion fixed my Kenmore. I wish I had found before I spent $30 for it to be looked at they were going to charge me an additional $90 to fix but it wasn’t ready when they said so I picked it up and fixed myself. Thank you again

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

You’re welcome. Good job saving the big bucks.

[@MB-tx4dq]

Thank you!!!!! This is TREMENDOUSLY helpful!!!!❤️

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@MB-tx4dq you’re welcome and I’m glad to help. 👍🏼😎

[@HaroldSmith-d2c]

Thank you. I got it apart and now this video has allowed to get it back together right.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@HaroldSmith-d2c you’re welcome and thanks for watching. 😎👍🏼

[@larryslotnick5627]

Randy, this video was so simple to follow. One problem solved on our recently inherited Singer 257. Now to figure out why the reverse knob is stuck in one position. Thanks Thank you.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Does the knob turn counterclockwise to lengthen the stitch? It may need a bit of lubrication. 😎

[@edwardd916]

Thank you for your videos They are great. One suggestion for newbies like me… I kept dropping the clutch ring.. Dr Pepper thing, so I found out that if I tilt the machine with the clutch up in the air, gravity will keep the clutch ring from falling out before I can put the knob on… just something that made my life easier. Thanks again for your helpful videos.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

You’re welcome. That’s a good procedure but I don’t encourage folks to do it as they drop them and cause damage. You’re on the high end of capability so it worked for you. Excellent.

[@johnbutler5650]

You’re alright chief! I think people are just airing out their heads whenever they decide they need share that piece of their mind. They probably should have kept that piece to complete the set. Great videos, keep doing the good work!🤙🤘

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@johnbutler5650 thanks. 😎👍🏼

[@MRrwmac]

On going never ending Clutch Saga. Thanks Randy!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

👍🏼

[@debSilbert]

Thank you! Helped me thru my struggle today.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

You’re welcome. I’m glad to help. 😎👍🏼

[@engelbob8402]

My Kenne is running great now. I'll comment on the newest video of yours which got me here. Thanks a bunch. U DA MAN!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Thank again. I appreciate your support. 😎👍🏼

[@MotherlandMoors]

Thank you for sharing I lost the screw. Would any other screw work?

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

It’s possible to find a random screw that will do the job. It’s simple enough to search online and find the correct one. That would be my recommendation. Search: “Hand wheel clutch stop motion screw for sale” The screw will cost practically nothing. The freight cost, however, will be a couple bucks. I say it’s worth it. Good luck.

[@sharyngould1989]

Thank you 🎉 saved me!

[@mfiola13]

Hi Randy. I have an issue with my White 999 related to this. I can not get the machine to disengage the needle (for making bobbins). It is a garage sale find and the handwheel was stuck on the shaft. I removed it, greased it, and it turns freely now. Even with that, I can not get the motion knob (that's what they call it in the manual) to work at all. I believe it is assembled it correctly.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

I will disagree and guess that it’s not assembled correctly. Make sure that the set screw is placed properly between the stop motion tabs that are on your clutch disc.

[@judymulloy8081]

Thank you Randy. I wish I had watched your video before I jammed up the handwheel on my Kenmore. It is jammed solid and I can’t get wheel off so I can assemble it correctly. Is there a way to get it off without causing more damage? Thank you.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Remove the set screw (stop motion screw)on the release knob. Wrap the knob with soft cloth and break it loose with channel locks. Leftie loosie/righty tighty. 😎👍🏼

[@berdinedevilliers3243]

Thank you!! Very good, give you flowers

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Thanks for your kind response. Be well.

[@tencevalentin621]

thank you for this video it really helped do would you happen to know why my needle wont bring up the bobbin thread

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Make sure your needle is inserted properly. Make sure it not bent and is the correct style and type.

[@tencevalentin621]

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 did all that the needle goes up before the hook reaches the needle so i believe its a timing problem

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Tence Valentin you are probably correct. If the needle rises before the hook has a chance to pass by above the needle eye, the hook timing is late and need to be advanced. The hook should be just above the needle eye as it rises on the right side swing of its widest zig zag setting. If it’s right at the eye, or very close to it, you can lower the needle bar height by a couple millimeters and that may solve your problem. Look for the adjustment screw facing the front in the midpoint of the needle bar near the zig zag plunger.

[@nancyb1252]

I had removed the handwheel and the belt from the shaft cleaned everything oiled the machine and reassembled it. I have tried putting the clutch washer every which way it goes. It wont lock the knob on the handwheel stays kind a tight but when I turn it manually the needle moves when I turn the handwheel any direction it dies not turn the needle. This is Singer stylist 533. It was working great till yesterday when I opened the handwheel assembly to tighten the belt now the handwheel is messed up. I cant figure out what is wrong here. I will greatly appreciate your help. I love this old machine I really like to keep it.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

It’s really simple: It’s not assembled properly. It only assembles correctly one way. You can’t try every possible way. You have to assemble it carefully, step, by, step, and get it absolutely correct. There’s one thing that you’re doing wrong. That’s all it takes for it not to work properly. The clutch disc will go in 4 ways. Only one way works. Take your time and follow the steps carefully. You’ll figure it out. 😎

[@plasticookies]

Hey Randy -- Thanks for the great vid! The first one was actually perfectly clear :) Based on your instructions, I've made sure that the hand wheel clutch is assembled correctly on my newly acquired Kenmore 148 14220 and the clutch knob seems to turn smoothly. Despite this, the needle still moves up and down when I turn the clutch knob counter-clockwise and engage the bobbin winder latch. I've never used a machine like this before so I'm not sure what to expect when the clutch is released. Should the hand wheel move in and out when the clutch is release?

[@jenniferandtan]

Thanks a lot for your help ,i am able to release the clutch. Now i am trying to insert the washer, unfortunately it keeps falling out How can I do it.Sorry to trouble you again Thanks

[@mcrogerr0ck]

Just inherited a Kenmore 158.17520. Been sitting a long time in a home then was put in storage a couple of years ago. I have oiled per your video and instruction booklet. However the needle does not go up and down and suspect the culprit to come from the clutch. Should I use penetrating oil in main areas as well as putting it on the clutch as a first step?

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

If you’re able to disassemble the clutch assembly, regular sewing machine oil works well. All the zig zag and feed mechanisms can usually use a small shot of penetrating oil after extended inactivity.

[@nancyb1252]

Unable to move the needle with handwheel can move by rotating clutch gear only. I tried rotating clutch washer as you suggested, but no luck, what am I missing.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Clean any excess oil off the clutch disc and install it with the two inside prongs facing out. (To the right) Make sure to clean the inside of the release knob that contacts the clutch disc. Be sure to loosen the small lock screw enough to allow the release knob to tighten securely before you retighten the lock screw.

[@nancyb1252]

I took my time and redid again and again at one time the needle moved a liittle then it stopped So I opened up the handwheel to see what was happening I found that when the screw hits the ear of the clutch it simply rotates the cam but does not stop it from moving, Is that normal if not what could be doing that

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

You may need to buff and polish the main shaft axle that the hand wheel rotates on. It may be rough and won’t release the hand wheel to spin properly.

[@nancyb1252]

Already did that I cleaned handwheel assembly and the shaft which is smooth. Handwheel moves fine manually it just does move the needle . @@randyyoursewingmachineman9954

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@nancyb1252 1)be sure to use a light oil. 2)Make sure the belt isn’t too tight. 3)Hold the needle clamp with the clutch released, and run the hand wheel at a high speed for an extended time to allow the surfaces to pair up.

[@pambinion2375]

Your video is great! My problem is that I have a Pfaff 330 and it's hand wheel and clutch knob are made differently. The clutch is released by pushing a small button on the front of the machine near the wheel, which releases the clutch. But the clutch also has a second screw that is a little longer than a set screw and drops into the hole further before you can screw it in. I don't know what it is called. My problem is that I can't get the clutch knob screwed in so that the longer screw will end up at the correct place to screw it into the hand wheel. Any help? Thanks.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

That Pfaff 330 has an atypical hand wheel clutch release that I don’t encourage folks to disassemble. I don’t have a video addressing the issue. There might be one out there, but I’m not aware of one. I’ll keep looking and if I find one I’ll let you know. Sorry about that.

[@pambinion2375]

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 Thanks for your answer. I appreciate it. Thanks for your videos!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@pambinion2375 you’re welcome.

[@jimjackson4256]

How long is that screw?I bought one of those things at an estate sale but unknown to me it didn’t have that little screw..

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Buy one online. They are basically one size fits all. Search for : hand wheel clutch release knob set screw. Get the correct one. The postage will be more than the screw, but at least you’ll have it fixed correctly. 😎👍🏼

[@jimjackson4256]

Thank you. Can you explain in more detail how that works because to me once the screw is between the tabs it will catch either way the shaft is turning.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@jimjackson4256 it’s locked onto the shaft once it’s tightened. When the clutch knob is released, the wheel spins independently from the shaft. The set screw just keeps the knob in position and prevents it from coming off.

[@jerrylafaery4748]

Thank you for the clear info! I also enjoyed your other video on this subject. I have a Serger ‘White Superlock 523’, that has a seized handwheel. It will almost rotate fully, but seized at the last ¼ rotation. Maybe this is too vague of a description, but any help will be appreciated.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

jerry LaFaery that sounds like the classic textbook definition of a cracked and broken plastic gear that drives your upper looper. Take the bottom off and look at the gear that drives the motion of your upper looper. Sometimes it is immediately visible on the center/left side of the undercarriage. Often it’s in a small housing with access via a cover plate. Almost all of those plastic gears have broken by now. If it’s not a broken gear, look to see if your loopers are making contact with each other or something similar.

[@chloe488]

Hi Jerry. Did you get the problem resolved?

[@timuid23]

Hey Randy, I did as you said and it works but it is really squeeking How do I stop that??

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Look for the bearing that didn’t get its drop of oil. Diligently watch everything that’s moving while turning the hand wheel. It could be your idler pulley between the belts or an upper shaft bearing. Remember my old saying: if it rotates, slides, or pivots, give it a drop of oil.

[@saraeoff646]

After reading all the comments, I think my clutch knob won't loosen, how can I help it loosen? Thanks again. Sara

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Channel locks and a soft cloth so you don’t scratch the release knob. I have to use them pretty often myself. Take the set screw out in case it’s improperly installed. Don’t lose it. They don’t have any of those at the hardware store. Good luck.

[@DonnaHowell-i1j]

Can't get the hand wheel off. Can you you help me?

[@jenniferandtan]

How to fix the washer, when I turned the clutch it dropped out, please advise

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@jenniferandtan the video shows it goes in four different ways. It will be in the correct position when the two inside tabs are facing out, and it’s rotated so the set screw is between the outside tabs.

[@Susan-vu9nn]

Quit apologizing... .your videos are great, informative, good explanation. What would you recommend using to clean old gunk from hand wheel / clutch that keeps slipping on a Pfaff 130?

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Not sure how to respond to the “quit apologizing “ comment. As to the clutch slipping, wipe the disc and threads with a rag and it shouldn’t slip. Make sure the disc is installed correctly with the inner tabs facing out.

[@patriayvida6850]

I have a 158.1430 in great shape; however, the stop motion doesn't work. The knob feels like it's been welded to the fly wheel & can't be removed (or moved) for anything. The bobbin winder part seems to be ok. Any ideas on how to get it "unstuck"?

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Penetrating oil and a soft cloth and channel locks. Use caution so nothing breaks. Be patient and turn the hand wheel release knob counterclockwise while holding the needle stationary. Be patient and cautious. Don’t break anything.

[@cccoinsmore681]

Thank you.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

You’re welcome

[@tencevalentin621]

i also have a drop feed problem it doesn't seem to drop the feed when i move the drop feed button

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Most likely the assembly and mechanism needs oiled. Give that a try.

[@singingtick]

Hello, do you know anything about yhe JCPenney model 6520? I got one at a garage sale and I am trying to figure out how to fix the needle position for straight stitching. It is set at the left me position and I cannot figure out how to move it without changing it to a zig zag stitch. Thanks 😊

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

If it’s a left side load bobbin style machine, it is also a left needle position machine. Unless you see a lever that’s marked with the letters L-M-R, then your needle will be always on the left position. If you see the LMR lever, you can move the lever for left, middle, & right positions.

[@idledreameress]

Thanks Randy. The clutch knob is still stuck fast. (Dad 'serviced' it and I suspect it may be reassembled incorrectly and brute force tightened because he did not realise the knob should move.) Would it be a terrible thing to hold the wheel and use a shifter or similar to loosen the clutch knob? Thanks for your videos. 👍

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Sorry for the late response, I just saw it. Yes you can use an adjustable wrench just be careful not to scratch it. Maybe wrap it with a cloth first.

[@idledreameress]

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 thank you Randy. Have tried some oil but no luck so far. Will give the adjustable wrench a go.

[@idledreameress]

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 after the oil was left a bit the wrench was used and it loosened fairly easily. Thank you.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

idledreameress great job. You’re welcome.

[@brenda-leedempsey1035]

Hi Randy, i don't know if you can help me but I am unable to remove the stop wheel on my Kenmore ultra stitch 12 sewing machine I have pretty much tried everything, Do you have any advice? Thank you I love you videos they help a lot

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Using a pair of channel locks and a soft cloth, wrap the cloth around the clutch release knob and apply counterclockwise turning pressure with your right hand while holding the hand wheel with your left hand. It usually releases easily if you try that. Be careful not to scratch your release knob.

[@saraeoff646]

I tried your suggestions, problem remains, the hand wheel and motor wheel won't work together like they used to. I tried to get them apart but unable. Suggestions I would appreciate. Thank you, Sara

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Wish I could do more. It’s an obvious fix for sure. I feel I was there I’d see the problem and remedy it in moments. Don’t overthink it. Something isn’t placed in position properly.

[@saraeoff646]

I got it the clutch apart and put back together, but still won't make stitch. Belt wheel kspins but won't make a stitch. Should I take the clutch and belt wheel off and redo as something may be dislodged there.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@saraeoff646 the reason it’s malfunctioning is that it’s not reassembled correctly. That’s it.

[@shopwornbear1171]

THANK YOU for giving me the one thing my stupid brain kept forgetting is a part of the parts chain; the damned washer! I've been wrestling with a 1755's clutch for a hot minute, and could not, I repeat, COULD NOT get the damned needle bar to sit still in wind mode. Couldn't figure out what I was missing. One quick second of expert understanding gave me the "come to Jesus" moment I was missing. I have the I.Q of a stair rail at times, I swear to hang! And...how I remember the positioning; "Father, Son and Holy Ghost". I'm not religious, but that one is how I keep the positioning up inside what's left of my corroded noggin. And your naysayers...big, bold and mouthy; when they're safely behind some anonymous keyboard. "Coward's Cove" is how I identify flamers. You just keep doing you, and everything will be right with the world. Thanks again for pointing out the obvious. I knew better, but had a total brain fart!!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@shopwornbear1171 glad you emerged victorious. “Cowards Cove”. Love it. (I’m stealing that one)😎👍🏼

[@shopwornbear1171]

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 Use it in good health!

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@shopwornbear1171 si señor. Backatcha

[@DonnaHowell-i1j]

I can't get my wheel off. Can you help me

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

I can try. Sometimes you have to tap the left side if the hand wheel lightly to coax it off the hand wheel axle. It’s a good idea to put a light spray of penetrating oil or sewing machine oil on the inside and outside of the hand wheel at the axle also. Tap it lightly with the handle of a screwdriver so there’s no risk of damage. Be patient and it will release and come off. 👍😎

[@billycook5688]

Just got an old Kenmore 158.18030 and if it has a clutch I haven't figured out how to work it, can you help? Thanks.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

I have a couple videos on the subject. What do you need to know?

[@billycook5688]

Like I said, no clutch knob, there is a button on the top that seems to have something to do with a clutch but I'm not sure how it works.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@billycook5688 that button engages the lever that actuates your clutch internally When you actuate your bobbin winder mechanism, it releases the clutch. When you disengage the bobbin winder, you then push that button down to engage the hand wheel clutch. That entire assembly usually needs a little penetrating oil if it’s been sitting unused for a while. You’ll see the metal band that surrounds the upper shaft, just to the left of your hand wheel. It is a centrifugal system. You will notice a small lever (tab) that emerges from the metal band as the machine shaft spins. If it’s stuck in the down position, you may have to encourage its movement with a small tool to lift it it up and press it back down as the oil does it’s job. Then you have to patiently work it back and forth to get it to snap in place on demand. Good luck.

[@billycook5688]

@@randyyoursewingmachineman9954 Thank you, this helps a lot.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@billycook5688 if I can round up that model or similar, I’ll make a video later.

[@babybat909]

great video ! didn't work with my machine though sadly.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

If it’s not reassembled properly, it will not work. Sad, but true.

[@stephanblack4558]

Hi, bought an old brother machine from the 1950-60's and the clutch is stuckit will not turn, any advice please?... Thank you.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

Sure. Loosen the belt and tap on the inside of the hand wheel, left to right, with the wooden handle (or plastic) of a screwdriver and coax it loose. Be patient. Tap lightly. Spray some penetrating oil on both sides at the shaft to help free it.

[@chloe488]

You say 10, 2, 6, but when you assemble it, it's 12, 4, 8. Can we do both?

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

The ten, two, four, is a reference to an old Dr Pepper soft drink slogan. Sorry for the confusion. Your way will be fine as long as other criteria are correct.

[@mrenzi1133]

Doctor pepper thing. Hahaha

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

@@mrenzi1133 it’s a memory device that’s fun and memorable. Why not? Thanks for watching. 👍🏼😎

[@pagornsuebwong2647]

can't hear wording.

[@randyyoursewingmachineman9954]

pagorn suebwong sorry. I’m not sure what the problem is.

[@mrenzi1133]

I did buy the machine. Don’t make fany. It’s a pain …