I haven't had that problem with my Juki, but I'm another one who can't figure out the automatic needle threader. Good thing I can still see the hole in the needle! To solve the 1/4" foot problem, I use the compensating foot that came with the machine. It works great for most seams. I did buy a generic 1/4" foot and it didn't work - the hole in the foot wasn't lined up with the needle. I'd also be interested to know where on ebay Jeanne found one that works.