Yes. When you were describing the problem, I immediately thought 'presser foot too tight', so what you did was the correct adjustment. As you mentioned, every machine has it's own nuances. If you bought it from a dealer, you might want to ask them. If you got it used, then I would just make the pressure adjustment and as long as you like the way it stitches, then don't worry about it.
One additional thought. I'm not sure how the ankle is afixed to your machine. You might want to check and make sure that it is installed all the way up the shaft. If it's not on all the way, that will put additional pressure on the foot.