Kenmore 158.1789280 (Model 1789) – Specs and Features
update: 2026.04.13
The Kenmore 158.1789280 or Model 1789, was manufactured in 1986 by Jaguar/Maruzen in Taiwan for Sears and sold under the Kenmore brand. Sears used the “158” prefix to designate machines built by Jaguar/Maruzen. That includes both the early Japanese-built models and the later Taiwanese production runs.
Convertible Bed
The machine converts between flatbed and free-arm by removing the accessory box, which clicks back into place. This was a practical feature for sewing cuffs, sleeves, and trouser legs.
Full Rotary hook, class 15
The photos above show the bobbin in its internal case, the shuttle/hook carrier, and the darning plate fitted under the presser foot.
I picked this machine up from an auction site a few years ago. It uses a drop-in Class 15 bobbin with a full rotary hook, uses the 15×1 needle system, and has a Super High Shank with a quick-detach presser foot system. I got lucky, it even came with its original darning plate.
The Kenmore 158.1789280 also features:
- 2-speed motor control
- 9 utility stitches
- 9 stretch stitches
- 5 decorative stitches
Super High Shank presser foot
The photos above show the Super High Shank presser foot from various angles. The final photo shows the quick-disconnect foot detached.
The presser foot system is super high shank with quick-detach snap-on feet. This is not common on domestic machines. Most Kenmore sewing machines are low shank. These feet are not interchangeable with standard high- or low-shank accessories, so sourcing correct feet requires some attention. You’ll need feet specifically labeled “super high shank” or “Kenmore 158.17xxx.”
Plastic gears and cam stack
These machines do have plastic gears and internal cam stacks, but they tend to hold up better than most other machines from the mid-1980s. As you can see, this one’s main issue was old, hardened grease that needed to be removed and replaced. It will also get cleaning and lubrication.
The frame is mostly metal, but the drive train is a mix of metal and plastic. The gears are plastic, and the plastic cam stacks are built in, rather than added externally with plug-in cams. That was standard for the era and a cost-reduction move, but the plastics used in these particular Jaguar/Maruzen models tend to hold up better than most machines of this era.
Motor and Timing Belts
The Model 1789 uses two belts: a motor belt and an internal timing belt. The timing belt is a known age-related failure point.
Specifications
| Brand | Kenmore |
| Model | 158.1789280 |
| Manufactured By | Jaguar/Maruzen |
| Made In | Taiwan |
| Years Produced | 1986 |
| Hook Type | Rotary |
| Bobbin | Class 15 |
| Bobbin Case | Internal |
| Needle System | 15×1 |
| Foot Type | Super High Shank |
| Construction | Mostly metal |
| Construction Drivetrain | Metal and plastic |
