For anyone who wants to bother reading the original thread, it's here:
http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-152172-1.htm
Please pardon the fact that I was behaving like a petulant, screeching lunatic at the time. I was pretty upset. If you don't feel like reading, here's the short version: Bought the machine in early 2010 - it was a brand-new model. After six months, sent it back for warranty repair; another six months later, back for warranty repair again. This machine has NEVER worked right since day one.
So today I received their response via e-mail. OMG you guys, it was worth reading for the entertainment value alone! It is truly the most condescending piece of correspondence I have ever received from any company I've dealt with. They seem to assume that I am a pea-brained idiot who does not know how to operate a sewing machine, even though I have told them (repeatedly) that I have more than 40 years of sewing experience under my belt, and am familiar with MANY sewing machines.
I won't bother posting the whole response, but suffice to say they are focusing on the following:
(1) Each time I've sent the machine back, it was for a different issue. Yup, right first time, folks! I have had multiple problems with this machine. Because it's a LEMON, people! What the heck does having "different issues" have to do with anything?
(2) They are fixated on thread choice. They go on and on about the fact that the machine can ONLY use 100% polyester thread, which is thin enough to not screw up the machine and its delicate parts.
(3) Here's my favorite little gem (printed verbatim here): "The technology of this machine is much different than a Industrial machine that has a different rotation of the bobbin hook. The bobbin hook on any home sewing machines are designed to use lighter thread. Quilting thread is another thread that is not recommended because of the thickness of the thread."
O...M...G! This machine is MARKETED by Singer to QUILTERS. Here's a little something from the machine description on their OWN website:
"FEATURES:
-401 Built-In Stitches including Alphanumeric Stitches
-NEW! Integrated Dual Feed System for even fabric feeding
-NEW! Hands-free Presser Foot Lifter for more fabric control
-NEW! Long Arm Design for large projects like quilting and home dec."
It does say quilting, does it not? I am not seeing things, right?!
So this is what they've offered to do for me... they are granting me a special 30 day warranty extension. They want me to ship the machine, again at MY own expense, to Syracuse, New York for service (because there's no service center in my area).
Not to offend anyone here, but they can take their 30-day warranty and shove it where the sun don't shine. There's no way I'm spending more money to ship this machine anywhere.
I think it's time to do what others suggested .... compose a very nice letter to Singer's CEO. Enclose all of my correspondence to and from Singer, and ask for resolution.
Sorry to be so long-winded, but many people asked that I repost to let them know what happens, so I've done that here.
Good thing I have my sense of humor today.