One more thought which comforts me. My machine is the same as the 117.840 and 117.740. I'll bet I could scout out a replacement tension assembly from one of those machines if need be - correct??? I can just replace the whole darn thing? Can I replace it with other assemblies as long as they fit the hole? (noob question again)
I absolutely love this machine and want to keep it going forever! I use it just about every day.