Thanks for the great suggestions! I have taken the bobbin out but I can't remove the stitch plate because the needle is almost in the total down position. Don't know what will happen if I loosen the needle clamp...will it fall down in the bobbin mechanism (can't think what to call it)?
I usually do start and end with the needle in the up position and then I clip the thread.
Oh well, just don't want to have to take it in to SM repair guy!!