I had this happen on my FW. I could undo the gib screw and take the gib out but couldn't go any further. I finally was able to wiggle (gently) and pull the thread out. NOW, though, I can't get the bobbin case/gib lined back up correctly. The needle hits "something" when I turn the hand wheel. I took a pic and will post it to see if anyone can figure out what I'm going wrong. I have the manual and it "seems" to be lined up correctly. She's just sitting waiting on me to get her to feeling better!! When I get frustrated, I tend to walk away and it takes me a while to get back to it.