Here's the part you need if the old cord block is no good:
shop.sew-clic.com/Cord-Set-Block-Style-700-143-SCE143.htmass
You can find this from other internet vendors or the local sew n vac also. You can also replace the motor and controller if needed. If your husband is familiar with universal motors this is pretty basic stuff and shouldn't take an engineer to figure out.
Jon
PS--Looks like the link isn't working so put "sewing machine cord set block" in search engine. Almost identical to your old cord block.
Last edited by jlhmnj; 11-02-2014 at 06:46 PM.