There is a users group on Yahoo for 6500 and 6600. Here is the link. I think there are more 6600 owners in the group then 6500. Or the 6600 owners post more. :D They have very helpful information.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Janome6500/
On my 6500 the feed dog switch is on the front and the feed dog will not move back up until you start stitching. I have never tryed the 1/4" foot for attaching the binding. I usually use the walking foot.