I know how you feel. I had a Signature, made by Montgomery Ward, 25 years ago and had a similar problem with it. Finally traded it in. My Mom's Signature is 47 years old and it still works. I have a singer I bought in 1971 and I'll never get rid of it, though it weighs a ton.
I think the best advice you've been given so far is to go to your goodwill or thrift store. Alot of times they have old/older machines that work great and some are in cabinets. Be sure to check that all the parts are there and in working order. Ask if they will let you plug it in to see if it works.
Good luck!
~Deb~