How To Adjust Feed Dogs On Kenmore Sewing Machine (2025) Complete Guide

Is your Kenmore sewing machine refusing to feed fabric properly? You're not alone. I've seen countless sewers struggle with feed dog issues, especially after switching between regular sewing and free-motion quilting.

How to adjust feed dogs on Kenmore sewing machine: Turn off and unplug your machine, locate the feed dog control lever or button, use the handwheel to align mechanisms, then adjust height using either the drop feed lever or adjustment screw depending on your model.

This guide covers all major Kenmore series (158, 365, 385, and models like 16231), with step-by-step instructions I've gathered from sewing communities and repair experts. You'll learn exactly how to raise stuck feed dogs, lower them for quilting, and fine-tune their height for perfect fabric feeding.

What Are Feed Dogs and How Do They Work?

Feed dogs are metal teeth located beneath the presser foot that move fabric through the sewing machine in a circular motion: up at the front, back toward you, down, then forward under the needle plate.

Feed dogs work by rising above the needle plate to grip fabric, moving it backward as the needle penetrates, then dropping below the surface to return to the starting position.

Properly adjusted feed dogs ensure consistent fabric feeding, prevent bunching and skipped stitches, and are essential for quality sewing results. When they're too low, fabric won't move; when they're too high, they can damage delicate materials.

Tools You'll Need for Feed Dog Adjustment

Before starting, gather these basic tools. Most adjustments require minimal equipment, but having everything ready prevents frustration mid-repair.

• Small screwdriver: Phillips or flathead, depending on your model
• Soft brush: For removing lint and debris
• Sewing machine oil: Only if mechanisms appear stiff
• Flashlight: LED light works best for viewing under needle plate
• Clean cloth: For wiping away excess oil

Step-by-Step Feed Dog Adjustment Procedures (November 2025)

Follow these numbered steps in order. Different Kenmore models have slightly different mechanisms, but the basic principles remain consistent across all series.

1. Prepare your machine: Turn off and unplug the sewing machine. Remove the needle and presser foot for safety and better access to mechanisms.
2. Clean the area: Use your soft brush to remove lint and thread debris from around the feed dogs and needle plate area. Lint buildup is a common cause of feed dog problems.
3. Locate your feed dog control: Most Kenmore models have either a lever, button, or dial to control feed dog position. Check the back of the free arm, side of the machine, or near the stitch length selector.
4. Test basic operation: Turn the handwheel toward you while observing the feed dogs. They should move in their circular pattern and rise above the needle plate surface.
5. Adjust feed dog height: Use your model-specific method (see below) to raise or lower the feed dogs as needed. The correct height allows the teeth to just grip fabric without being too aggressive.
6. Test your adjustment: Reinstall the needle and presser foot. Using scrap fabric, test the feeding. The fabric should move smoothly without bunching or slipping.

How to Raise Stuck Feed Dogs

If your feed dogs are stuck in the down position, try this technique that works on most Kenmore models:

1. Locate the feed dog control (usually a button or lever)
2. Push the control button to the left while simultaneously turning the handwheel toward you
3. This alignment technique works especially well on models 16231 and similar Kenmore machines
4. If resistance is felt, stop and check for obstructions before proceeding

How to Lower Feed Dogs for Quilting

Lowering feed dogs is necessary for free-motion quilting and embroidery:

1. Find the drop feed lever or button on your Kenmore model
2. For 365 and 385 series, this is typically a lever on the back of the free arm
3. Move the lever to the down position
4. Turn the handwheel to confirm the feed dogs drop below the needle plate surface

Model-Specific Instructions for Kenmore Series (November 2025)

Different Kenmore series have unique feed dog mechanisms. Here's how to adjust the most common models:

Kenmore 158 Series (Vintage Models)

These older models often have manual adjustments and may require more care:

• Feed dog control is typically a lever on the back of the free arm
• May need to remove the accessory tray for access
• Vintage mechanisms can be stiff - use sewing machine oil if needed
• Check for worn parts that might need replacement

Kenmore 365 Series (Including 365.16765)

This series features both lever and screw adjustment:

• Primary control is the drop feed lever on the machine's side
• For height adjustment, locate the small adjustment screw under the needle plate
• Turn the screw clockwise to raise feed dogs, counterclockwise to lower
• Common issue: feed dogs too low even with lever at highest position

Kenmore 385 Series

Newer models with more sophisticated controls:

• Feed dog control is often integrated with stitch length selector
• Some models have a dedicated button near the presser foot lever
• Free arm conversion may require removing accessory tray first
• Generally smoother operation than vintage models

Kenmore Model 16231

Specific technique for this popular model:

• Push the feed dog control button to the left
• While holding the button, turn the handwheel toward you
• This specific sequence aligns the mechanism properly
• Many users report success with this technique after other methods failed

Common Feed Dog Problems and Solutions

Even after adjustment, you might encounter these issues. Here's how to address them:

Feed Dogs Still Too Low

If feed dogs move but don't rise high enough to grip fabric:

• Check for the adjustment screw (usually accessible after removing needle plate)
• Turn the screw clockwise in small increments
• Test after each adjustment - aim for teeth to rise just above needle plate
• On 365 series, this is often the solution for "feed dogs too low" issues

Feed Dogs Not Moving At All

Complete lack of movement indicates a more serious issue:

• Check that the machine is not in darning or free-motion mode
• Verify the bobbin case is properly inserted and not obstructing movement
• Look for broken gears or disengaged linkage (may need professional service)
• Try turning the handwheel by hand to feel for resistance or grinding

Fabric Still Not Feeding Properly

When feed dogs move but fabric doesn't advance:

• Check presser foot pressure - adjust if too light or too heavy
• Verify correct needle plate is installed (some have different hole sizes)
• Ensure feed dog height matches fabric thickness
• Clean under the needle plate thoroughly - lint is a common culprit

Preventive Maintenance for Feed Dogs

Regular maintenance prevents most feed dog issues:

• Clean weekly: Brush away lint from feed dog area after each project
• Oil monthly: Apply one drop of sewing machine oil to feed dog mechanism points
• Inspect quarterly: Check for loose screws or worn parts
• Professional service: Annual tune-up for machines used frequently

When to Seek Professional Help?

Some situations require expert assistance:

• Broken or cracked feed dog teeth
• Stripped adjustment screws
• Internal gear damage
• Timing issues (needle and feed dogs not synchronized)

If you've tried all adjustment methods and the feed dogs still don't work properly, it's time to consult a professional sewing machine technician. The cost of repair is often less than replacing a quality Kenmore machine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Properly adjusted feed dogs are essential for quality sewing results. Whether you're restoring a vintage Kenmore 158 series or maintaining a newer 385 model, these adjustments ensure smooth fabric feeding and professional-looking stitches. Regular maintenance and careful adjustments will keep your Kenmore sewing machine running smoothly for years to come.

Remember that while many feed dog issues can be resolved with these adjustments, don't hesitate to seek professional help for complex mechanical problems. Your local sewing machine repair specialist has the tools and expertise for more serious repairs.

For more information on industrial sewing machines with advanced feed mechanisms, or to compare feed dog systems across different brands like Brother sewing machines, check out our comprehensive guides.