Update!! Thanks again for all the advice and links. This morning as I was making my tea, after again soaking the lower bobbin area overnight with no avail..I was struck by the idea to use boiling water. I heated a pot of water and slowly poured it in the lower bobbin area near the feed dogs. The hot water softened the gunk between the feed dogs and the bracket. It was pretty yucky. I just finished cleaning them, the bobbin carrier and all around the hook...without taking it out. Thanks again. I think I am ready to put this puppy back together. Wish me luck that I don't end up with extra parts!!