This is Karen from Georgia - the one with the injured machine. (will be ready to pick up after Atlanta Sewing gets the parts in). $170 to repair a GREAT machine that a compatible machine would now cost $6000 (maybe less). Ok, I purchased the new 3 series made by Bernina (380) a week ago. It was a floor model so and the only one they had - so I got a good discount on it. Ok, it's much lighter than the Activa 170 (and much cheaper)- so the 380 will go to retreats, etc. In my sewing of quilts, I have found that I am having trouble with the top thread breaking (380) when I am sewing over seams for putting together quilt squares. It seems to me it just doesn't have the power like my other machine. It may just be that it doesn't have the power that the 170 Activa does. I know you have one and I am wondering if you have had any problems like this - or is it due to some issues because it was a floor model. Sorry to run on, but I would really like your thoughts!