I too have a Featherweight back-up which is just great for piecing. Unfortunately I "traded in" my Singer Slant O Matic when I got my new Bernina. That was a nice sturdy machine I got for $25 at an auction. I gave my other Bernina to my daughter as she had a pretty undependable machine. I'm thinking I could use more machines!
By the way, terrible way to be treated by a dealer.