It is a fabulous machine. As stated, there are learning curves, as with any machine, DMS or LA. I have had mine for a year now and LOVE it. The only tension problem I had was from dropping the bobbin racer on the floor a couple of times and bending it. Once my DH straightened it for me, I have had no further problems. As I get ready to start a new quilt, there are three basic steps that I do:
1: Kill all dust bunnies, including on the rails.
2: Oil the machine
3: Do the yo-yo test for the bobbin.
Watch all available videos here:
http://tinlizzie18.com/service-and-support/
Read this section of the owners manual that shows the yo yo test for the bobbin tension:
Check the tension of the bobbin by holding the
loaded bobbin case in one hand. With one hand
under the bobbin case, hold the tail of thread and
watch as the thread flows out of the bobbin case.
A slight bounce should cause the bobbin case to
slide down the thread. If the thread slides out of
the case as you pick it up, it needs more tension.
If it barely moves down the thread or doesn’t move
at all, it needs less tension.
Use a small screwdriver to turn the largest set screw on the
bobbin case to adjust tension. Make very, very small adjustments.
Be very careful not to remove the screw as it is very small and
difficult to find if lost. Remember, righty (clockwise) tighty, lefty
(counter clockwise) loosey.
To place the bobbin into the machine:
1. Insert the bobbin into the bobbin case.
2. Holding the bobbin case pull the thread through the slot.
3. Draw the thread down and under the spring, making sure
the thread is in the highest position of the bobbin case.
4. Place the bobbin case in the machine. Always listen for
the pop as it engages in the machine.
We suggest using a soft bristle brush to wipe out the bobbin case
and the bobbin area. Canned air only blows the lint around. By
using the soft bristle brush you collect the dust on the brush.
Each day before you start quilting, unthread your machine past
the take up lever and remove the bobbin case, place a small drop
of oil in the bobbin hook area before you begin quilting. This will
clean out the fuzz and lint. Place a drop of oil in the bobbin hook
area. Turn your machine on to run at the slowest setting.
TIP: Lint has a tendency to build up in the bobbin case especially with cotton threads. A tiny
amount of lint can cause a huge headache! Check the bobbin each time you change it to keep it clean.
All this information is available in the Tin Lizzie Manual or in their videos listed on their website.
As I said, I love my machine. It runs smoothly and quietly, and I still say...It was the best bang for my buck...which we all look for these days.