The other thing is - if you try to turn everything when the bobbin case is out, it will always catch on that shaft.
It's in the way after all. The bobbin case will let it go up and over.
If your timing is out, it's relatively easy to set, once you get the parts to let go.
http://thefeatherweight221factory.com/page34.php
This link should take you to the adjusters manual for the 221, which uses the same hook.
The slant machines use the same 15x1 needle as any other low shank machine. The 301 and 221 both are completely fine with non-Singer needles, in fact, I don't recommend Singer needles anymore, they're poorly made like most of their current products. I use Schmetz in my 221, 222 and 301s, as well as all of my other machines. Organ is another good brand, they're what Superior sells.
As for the part you're missing, I would contact Glenn Williams as well. I find his pricing is much more reasonable than April1930s. I think the part number is 45926, and it's listed as no longer available from my supplier, but both Glenn and April will likely have one from a machine they've parted. It will look like this:
http://www.sewingpartsonline.com/bob...g-machine.aspx Be aware, it's not a cheap part, so make sure you know what it's going to cost before you talk to the seller. My price sheet said it was
over $40 wholesale before it was discontinued.
You can install the part yourself with the instructions in the owner's manual, or in the Adjuster's manual or this link:
http://thefeatherweight221factory.co...MachineJam.php
Unfortunately "working" often means "the stabby thing goes up and down when I push the foot thingie and the light turns on."
Glenn Williams can be reached here:
http://pages.suddenlink.net/joyof301s/glenn.htm I've dealt with him, and was very happy with the service.