thanks for the information on the 301 tension. i just bought my 301a LBOW a coupla days ago and the tension is off plus the machine needs a deep cleaning because it is dirty and full of lint dust. i am refinshing the cabinet now and will then start on the machine. i know there should be some info on this board about cleaning 301's or similar machines. i will do a search when i am ready to start on the 301a.