Your racing motor could have been a result of reversing the plugs on the foot pedal cord and the motor cord when you plug them into the block. Guess how I know? And I know I'm not the only one who's had that happen. Personally, I wouldn't have plugged in frayed wires, but then I'm afraid of electricity. You might want to PM Mizkaki about the ceramic foot pedal. I remember she said something about then and mine has overheated badly on my Admiral. It is being replaced.
I'm jealous. I want a straight stitch machine at church so I don't have to tote on every month. You'll love your clone when you get her up and running.