Make sure that the feed dog is there!!!! Also, make sure that the machine stops in the UP position. Other than that, it is one of my favorite machines. Parts are extremely hard to find. Also, make sure that the hand wheel is true when it is running. All parts for this machine are in very short supply, and they don't make them anymore. If it is running well, you've got a fabulous machine...actually quite unbeatable, even by today's standards. The stitches are terrific!!!!!!