Try going to a school and see if someone wants to translate.
I had a Phoenix machine until a month or so ago... A little gal came looking to buy a machine and the more I talked to her the more I knew she needed the Phoenix. I had so NOT intended to sell that machine. I just loved it. Anyway she bought it. When I sold it to her I figured out the free motion - WOW WOW WOW that one was wonderful - it had something in the back you let down and a neat little foot. I'm wondering if you can shoot a pic of the bobbin case? I'm betting the thread winds through that thing you said sticks up. Once you figure out that machine you will love it.