My Kenmore sewing machine model 385 moves at an incredibly slow rate. We took it apart and found that the smaller nob controlling the back band is the problem and makes the needle move slow. When we take the band off the nob the needle moves at the rate its supposed to. What could we do to make the smaller nob rotate the band faster?

SOURCE: Kenmore Sewing Machine 385

check the Bed Drop Lever
Im having the same problem but the lever is not enguaging the bed

SOURCE: Kenmore 385 sewing machine won't sew

try oiling the machine

SOURCE: can't tighten clutch on Kenmore zig zag sewing machine.

The clutch has fallen off the shaft. Remove the very small screw in the clutch release screw to remove the clutch release. Place the clutch(round thing with ears on it) back on the shaft with the center ears pointing towards the outside. Put the clutch release screw back on. Tighten it to make sure it works
properly. Put the small screw back in the clutch release screw and test it again. If it will not tighten or release properly, remove the clutch ,rotate it180 degrees and try it again.This should solve your problem.
sewman7

SOURCE: old kenmore runs at choppy when trying to sew

Lubricate the machine. All metal against metal places. This should allow the machine to run smoother. This is an older machine and may need to be run full speed for a while to let it break free.

SOURCE: Sears Kenmore Sewing Machine Model 385. 1254180 Bobbin Won't Wind

The winding sound is the rubber O-ring against the spinning pulley (back of hand wheel) - do not let this continue, it will wear out the O-ring.

I had the same problem and I found the shaft bushing of the winder dry and needed lubed. Use oil or spray lithium grease and it should work fine. Spin the bobbin shaft by hand (not the hand wheel) to get it freed up after oiling.

You can oil from the top and should take off the side case to clean the excess oil from the O-ring. The shaft bushing is a tight fit and any dry oil will get sticky and prevent winding.