it's done! I got the Singer H74 repaired--not as cheap as I'd like, but since an almost new machine with lots of the features I want, plus very light weight, guess it's worth it. Plus the local repair guy guarantees it for a year. Said that there was something bent(he named it but it was 7:30 in the morning when he dropped it off!) that was deep in the machine and had ruined some cam and bushing too. Said that unfortunately, both Singer and Brothers sometimes just don't leave the factory in good shape--like buying a "lemon" car. SO glad I won't have to take my nice Elna to my next class! Thanks for all your ideas and help.