Chicago Electric 90715 User Manual
SEWING MACHINESEWING MACHINE
®
SEWING MACHINE
SEWING MACHINESEWING MACHINE
45 / 21 STITCH45 / 21 STITCH
45 / 21 STITCH
45 / 21 STITCH45 / 21 STITCH
90715
ASSEMBLY AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
3491 MISSION OAKS BLVD., CAMARILLO, CA 93011
VISIT OUR WEB SITE AT HTTP://WWW.HARBORFREIGHT.COM
Copyright © 2003 by Harbor Freight Tools
this manual or any artwork contained herein may be reproduced in any shape
or form without the express written consent of Harbor Freight Tools.
For technical questions and replacement parts, please call 1-800-444-3353
®
. All rights reserved. No portion of
SPECIFICATIONS
Item Description
Power Consum ption 120 VAC, 60 Hz
Power Cord Two prong, polarized, 6 feet, UL listed, double
Sewing Functions 45 selectable stitch functions and 21 built-in
Needle Positions Left to extreme right
Features - Bobbin w inder
Accessories Oiler, 3 needles, quilting guide, snap-on zigzag
Weight 18.7 lbs
Overall Dimensions 8-5/8 x 13-1/2 x 17-1/4 inches
Note: This Sewing Machine is intended for household use.
ins u lat ed
stitches, forward and reverse by select lever;
button function with built-in, one step button
holer
- Stitch length and width control
- Adjustable thread and tension control
- Built-in accessory compartment
- Electronic, variable speed foot control
- Can sew through multi-layered, light to
medium heavy fabrics
- Built-in carrying handle
foot; 3 bobbins, two screwdrivers
SAVE THIS MANUAL
You will need the manual for the safety warnings and precautions, assembly instructions,
operating and maintenance procedures, parts list and diagram. Keep your invoice with this
manual. Write the invoice number on the inside of the front cover. Keep the manual and
invoice in a safe and dry place for future reference.
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
WARNING!
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL INSTRUCTIONS. Failure to follow all instructions listed below m ay result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious injury.
SAVE TH ESE INSTRUCTIONS
Work Area
1. Keep your work area clean and well lit. Cluttered benches and dark areas invite
accidents.
2. Do not operate power machines in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of
flammable liquids, gases, or dust. Power machines create sparks which may ignite
the dust or fumes.
3. Keep bystanders, children, and visitors away while operating a power machine.
Distractions can cause you to lose control. Protect others in the work area from
machine operation. Provide barriers or shields as needed.
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Electrical Safety
4. Avoid body contact with grounded surfaces such as pipes, radiators, ranges, and
refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is grounded.
5. Do not expose power machines to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power
machine will increase the risk of electric shock.
6. Grounded machines must be plugged into an outlet properly installed and grounded in
accordance with all codes and ordinances. Never remove the grounding prong or
modify the plug in any way. Do not use any adapter plugs. Check with a qualified
electrician if you are in doubt as to whether the outlet is properly grounded. If the
machines should electrically malfunction or break down, grounding provides a low
resistance path to carry electricity away from the user.
7. This double insulated machine is equipped with a polarized plug (one blade is wider
than the other). This plug will fit in a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not
fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician
to install a polarized outlet. Do not change the plug in any way. Double insulation
eliminates the need for the three wire grounded power cord and grounded power
supply system.
8. Do not abuse the Power Cord. Never use the Power Cord to carry the machines or
pull the Plug from an outlet. Keep the Power Cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges, or
moving parts. Replace damaged Power Cords immediately. Damaged Power Cords
increase the risk of electric shock.
9. When operating a power machine outside, use an outdoor extension cord marked “WA” or “W”. These extension cords are rated for outdoor use, and reduce the risk of
electric shock.
10. Always connect the Line Cord to a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protected
electrical outlet.
Personal Safety
11. Stay alert. Watch what you are doing, and use common sense when operating a
power tool. Do not use a power tool while tired or under the influence of drugs,
alcohol, or medication. A moment of inattention while operating power machines may
result in serious personal injury.
12. Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Contain long hair. Keep your
hair, clothing, and gloves away from moving par ts. Loose clothes, jewelry, or long hair
can be caught in moving parts.
13. Avoid accidental starting. Be sure the Power Switch is off before plugging in.
Plugging in power tools with the Power Switch on, invites accidents.
14. Remove adjusting keys or wrenches before turning the power machine on. A wrench
or a key that is left attached to a rotating part of the power machine may result in
personal injury.
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15. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. Proper footing and
balance enables better control of the power tool in unexpected situations.
16. Use safety equipment. Always wear eye protection.
Machine Use and Care
17. Do not force the machine. Use the correct machine for your application. The correct
machine will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it is designed.
18. Do not use the power machine if the Power Switch does not turn it on or off. Any
machine that cannot be controlled with the Power Switch is dangerous and must be
replaced.
19. Disconnect the Power Cord Plug from the power source before making any
adjustments, changing accessories, or storing the machine. Such preventive safety
measures reduce the risk of starting the machine accidentally.
20. Store idle machines out of reach of children and other untrained persons. Machines
are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
21. Maintain machines with care. Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly
maintained tools with a sharp cutting edge are less likely to bind and are easier to
control. Do not use a damaged machine. Tag damaged machines “Do not use” until
repaired.
22. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts, and any other
condition that may affect the machine’s operation. If damaged, have the machine
serviced before using. Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained machines.
23. Use only accessories that are recommended by the manufacturer for your model.
Accessories that may be suitable for one tool may become hazardous when used on
another tool.
Service
24. Machine service must be performed only by qualified repair personnel. Service or
maintenance performed by unqualified personnel could result in a risk of injury.
25. When servicing a machine, use only identical replacement parts. Follow instructions
in the
unauthorized parts or failure to follow maintenance instructions may create a risk of
electric shock or injury.
“Inspection, Maintenance, And Cleaning”
section of this manual. Use of
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES FOR THIS SEWING MACHINE
1. Maintain labels and nameplates on the Sewing Machine. These carry important
information. If unreadable or missing, contact Harbor Freight Tools for a replacement.
2. Always wear safety impact eye glasses. Using personal safety devices reduce the risk
for injury. Safety impact eye glasses are available from Harbor Freight Tools.
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3. Avoid unintentional starting. Make sure you are prepared to begin work before turning
on the Sewing Machine.
4. Maintain a safe working environment. Keep the work area well lit. Make sure there is
adequate surrounding workspace. Always keep the work area free of obstructions,
grease, oil, trash, and other debris. Do not use a power machine in areas near
flammable chemicals, dusts, and vapors. Do not use this product in a damp or wet
location.
5. Do not force the Sewing Machine. This machine will do the work better and safer at the
speed and capacity for which it was designed.
6. Always unplug the Sewing Machine from its electrical outlet before changing needles
or settings, or performing inspection, maintenance, or cleaning procedures.
7. Danger ! To reduce the risk of electric shock, never leave the Sewing Machine
unattended while turned on. Unplug this appliance from the electrical outlet
immediately after using and before cleaning.
8. Before each use, check all nuts, bolts, and screws for tightness. Vibration during
mixing may cause these to loosen.
9. Keep extension cord off the ground and away from water.
10. Keep hands away from the needle when you turn the power switch on, or while the
machine is operating.
11. Do not place your fingers into the thread take-up cover while the machine is
operating.
12. Always turn the machine off and unplug the power cord to the electrical outlet before
tilting the machine head or removing the V-belt.
13. Never leave the machine running and unattended.
14. During operation, never place your head, hair, or hands in the proximity of the hand
wheel, V-belt, bobbin winder, or motor.
15. Do not operate the machine with any safety guards removed.
16. Always use the correct needle plate. The wrong plate can damage the needle.
17. Never operate using a bent or broken needle.
18. Never force the material in or out of the area being sewn. This can damage the needle.
19. Warning: To reduce the risk of burns, fire, electric shock, or injury to persons:
A. Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when this appliance
is used by or near children.
B. Use this appliance only for its intended use as described in this manual. Use only
attachments recommended by the manufacturer as contained in this manual.
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C. Never operate this appliance if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it is not working
properly, if it has been dropped or damaged, or dropped into water. Take the product to
a certified service technician for examination, repair, electrical or mechanical
adjustment.
D. Never operate this appliance with any air openings blocked. Keep ventilation
openings free from the accumulation of lint, hair, loose clothes and dust.
E. Never drop or insert any object into any opening.
F. Do not use outdoors.
G. Do not operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is
being administered.
H. Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the
sewing machine needle.
I. Always use the proper needle plate. The wrong plate can cause the needle to break.
J. Do not use bent needles.
K. Do not pull or push fabric while stitching. It may deflect the needle causing it to
break.
L. Switch the sewing machine off (O) when making any adjustments in the needle
area, such as threading needle, changing needle, threading bobbin, or changing
presser foot, etc.
M. Always unplug sewing machine from the electrical outlet when removing cover,
lubricating, or when making any other user servicing adjustments mentioned in the
instruction manual.
N. Danger! Do not reach for an appliance that has fallen into water. Unplug
immediately.
O. Danger! Do not place or store appliance where it can fall or be pulled into a tub
or sink. Do not place in or drop into water or other liquid.
P. Warning! Never operate on a soft surface such as a bed or couch where the air
openings may be blocked.
WARNING! People with pacemakers should consult their physician(s) before using
this product. Operation of electrical equipment in close proximity to a heart pacemaker
could cause interference or failure of the pacemaker.
Page 6SKU 90715
GROUNDING
WARNING!
Improperly connecting the grounding wire can result in the risk of electric
shock. Check with a qualfified electrician if you are in doubt as to whether the
outlet is properly grounded. Do not modify the power cord plug provided with
the tool. Never remove the grounding prong from the plug. Do not use the tool if
the power cord or plug is damaged. If damaged, have it repaired by a service
facility before use. If the plug will not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet installed
by a qualified electrician.
Double Insulated Tools: Tools with Two Prong Plugs
This Sewing Machine comes with a two-prong plug, and the electrical components inside
are double insulated for safety.
1. Tools marked “Double Insulated” do not require grounding. They have a special double
insulation system which satisfies OSHA requirements and complies with the
applicable standards of Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., the Canadian Standard
Association, and the National Electrical Code.
5. Double insulated tools may be used in either of the 120 volt outlets shown below.
EXTENSION CORDS
1.
Grounded
Insulated
2. As the distance from the supply outlet increases, you must use a heavier gauge
extension cord. Using extension cords with inadequately sized wire causes a serious
drop in voltage, resulting in loss of power and possible tool damage. (See Table on
page 7.)
3. The smaller the gauge number of the wire, the greater the capacity of the cord. For
example, a 14 gauge cord can carry a higher current than a 16 gauge cord.
tools with a three-prong plug require a three wire extension cord.
tools can use either a two or three wire extension cord.
Double
4. When using more than one extension cord to make up the total length, make sure
each cord contains at least the minimum wire size required.
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5. If you are using one extension cord for more than one tool, add the nameplate
amperes and use the sum to determine the required minimum cord size. (See Table
below.)
6. If you are using an extension cord outdoors, make sure it is marked with the suffix “WA” (“W” in Canada) to indicate it is acceptable for outdoor use.
7. Make sure your extension cord is properly wired and in good electrical condition.
Always replace a damaged extension cord or have it repaired by a qualified electrician
before using it.
8. Protect your extension cords from sharp objects, excessive heat, and damp or wet
areas.
RECOMMENDED MINIMUM WIRE GAUGE FOR EXTENSION CORDS*
(120 VOLT)
NAMEPLATE
AMPERES
(At Full Load)
25
Feet
0 – 2.0 18 18 18 18 16
2.1 – 3.4 18 18 18 16 14
3.5 – 5.0 18 18 16 14 12
5.1 – 7.0 18 16 14 12 12
7.1 – 12.0 18 14 12 10 -
12.1 – 16.0 14 12 10 - -
16.1 – 20.0 12 10 - - * Based on limiting the line voltage drop to five volts at 150% of the rated amperes.
EXTENSION CORD LENGTH
50
Feet
75
Feet
100
Feet
150
Feet
SYMBOLOGY
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UNPACKING
When unpacking, check to make sure that all the parts are included. Refer to the Accessories listed below and the Controls and Indicators section.
If any parts are missing or broken, please call Harbor Freight Tools at the number on the
cover of this manual as soon as possible.
Accessories
1. Buttonhole Foot
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Zipper Foot
Button Sewing Foot
Needle Pack (3 pcs.)
Bobbins (3 pcs.)
Darning Plate
Two screwdrivers (not shown)
Extra Spool Pin
Spool Holder (Large and Small)
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OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Controls and Indicators
1.
Bobbin Winding Assy. – Winds the thread onto the bobbin to be used for the
lower thread
2.
Spool Holder – Holds the sewing thread
3.
Stitch Length Dial – Controls the length of the stitches
4.
Presser Foot Lever – Raises and lowers the presser foot
5.
Upper Tension Control Dial – Controls the tension of the upper thread
6.
Extension Table and Accessories Compartment – Converts from the free-arm
into a flat bed machine
7.
Mechanical Pattern Indication Window – Shows the stitch to be performed
8.
Reverse Sewing Button – Push for stitching in the reverse direction
9.
Balance Wheel – Turn toward you (counterclockwise) to raise and lower the
needle
10. Clutch Release Switch – Switches from bobbin winding mode to sewing mode
11. Pattern Selection Dial – Turn in either direction to select the desired stitch
12. Foot Controller Receptacle – Receives the foot controller plug
13. Foot Controller – Used to control sewing speed, start and stop
14. Main Power Switch – Turns the machine power on and off
15. Vertical Spool Holder – Used to hold a second spool of thread for twin needle
sewing
(1)
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Sewing Steps
Follow these basic steps to setup the sewing machine. Refer to the illustration on the previous page to locate the components referred to below.
1. Set the Sewing Machine on a table with a smooth surface.
2. Select and install the desired needle for the material to be sewn (See below).
3. Place the spool of thread onto the Spool Holder (2) and route the thread from the spool
holder down to, and through the needle (See page 11).
4. Wind the bobbin with thread (See page 13), place bobbin into the bobbin case, and
route the thread (page 12).
5. Select the desired stitch pattern and length (See page 15).
6. Replace the Presser Foot if necessary for sewing special items (See page 14).
7. Insert the Foot Controller connector into the machine receptacle, then the line cord
plug into an electrical outlet (See page 9 ). Place the Foot Controller on the floor.
8. Press the Main Power Switch (14) to the On (I) position.
9. Press down slowly on the Foot Controller and sew a scrap piece of cloth for a few
minutes to test the machine.
10. Periodically clean machine parts (See page 19).
11. Periodically oil the machine (See page 18).
Replacing the Needle
1. Unplug the line cord from the electrical outlet.
2. Turn the Balance Wheel (9) to raise the needle to its
highest position.
3. Lower the Presser Foot by pressing down on the Presser
Foot Lever (4).
4. Loosen the Needle Clamp and pull the needle down and
out.
5. Insert a new needle as far up as possible and against the
needle stopper. The needle’s flat side must face toward the back.
The needle must not be bent or broken. For general sewing, use needle sizes 11 or
14. A fine thread and needle should be used for sewing lightweight fabrics, so the
fabric will not be marred. Heavy fabrics require a needle large enough to pierce the
fabric without fraying the needle thread.
6. Tighten the Needle Clamp.
Page 11SKU 90715
Spool Threading
1. Raise the Presser Foot with the Presser Foot Lever (4).
2. Turn the Balance Wheel (9) counterclockwise to raise the needle to its highest
position.
3. Place a spool of thread on the horizontal spool pin and press a spool holder onto the
spool pin to hold the thread spool firmly in place.
4. Route the thread through the thread take-up lever from left to right, and down to the
needle.
Thread Take-up Lever
Horizontal Spool Pin
Using the Needle Threader
Spool Holder
(4)
1. Lower the Presser Foot using Lever (4).
2. Lower the Needle Threader (A) slightly and place the thread under the Guide (B).
3. Move the Needle Threader down to its lowest position, then guide the thread under the
Hook (C) which passes through the eye of the needle.
4. Release the Needle Threader and the thread at the same time. This will move the
thread through the needle eye. Pull two inches of thread through the needle.
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Bobbin Placement and Threading
1. Turn the Balance Wheel (9) counterclockwise to raise the needle to its highest
position.
2. Raise the Presser Foot with its Lever (4).
3. Remove the Extension Table (6), and then the shuttle cover (located on front of the free
arm).
4. Remove the Bobbin Case by grasping the Bobbin Case Latch (A) and pulling it out.
See illustration below.
5. Unwind about four inches of thread from the full Bobbin and insert the Bobbin into the
Bobbin Case.
6. Pull the trailing thread into the slot, down and to the left, until it enters the delivery eye
under the tension spring (C).
7. Holding the Bobbin Case by the Latch (A), insert the Bobbin Case into the shuttle
race and release the Latch. The Bobbin Case Finger (B) must fit into the Notch (E) at
the top of the race.
Bobbin Case
8. Raise the Presser Foot and needle to their highest positions.
9. With your left hand, hold the end of the upper thread (F). With
your right hand, turn the Balance Wheel (9) counterclockwise
until the needle moves down and back up again to its highest
position. The upper thread should have caught the lower
thread in a loop.
10. Pull the upper thread toward you and the lower thread (G) will
come up from the bobbin in a large loop.
11. Pull out about six inches of both threads and place them
between the toes of the Presser Foot and to the right and back of the Presser Foot.
Page 13SKU 90715
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