Thank you, this is very helpful. What I have noticed is that there are 2 thread guides on the top of the machine and each of them has two holes, one closed hole and one slotted hole. That is the part that has me baffled. I have tried threading them closed through open hole and vice versa, but the thread never stays in the slotted hole anyway! I have a grip on the generic fundamentals of threading the older machines, winding the bobbins, etc. So far I have been able to sew with it having intermittent tension problems, for instance, inch or so tight on top then on bottom, most notable when slowing down the stitching. The foot pedal is a bit tight, or maybe sensitive? Gently press and machine takes off!
I appreciate everyone's input. For sure this is a sturdy little machine. Makes me sick how much I paid for my Singer last year and mostly plastic!