Joe I believe you're right about the plastic gears. I'm not offended by them yet but I think I'll stick with metal machines. 2 out of 3 broken isn't good odds. Given how Touch & Sews are known for their gears failing #3 is a broken machine waiting to happen. I still like them though. I suppose a 40 year lifespan isn't terrible but the all metal ones will outlast me and my daughter with minimal care.
Rodney
At $69.00 for the replacement gear on your machine I'd chuck it and never look back. I don't mind spending a bit to get a machine running again but for that money I could get at least two machines that didn't need anything done.