I have several ss clones and love them. If you're sure the needle is in correctly and it's threaded right, check for needle strike marks at the needle hole. For the other issue, make sure the take up lever is just over the top of its travel when you pull the thread. The stitch is complete at that point and should pull easily once you've raised the presser foot. If it doesn't, either the upper or lower tension needs looked at. The upper may not be releasing completely or the lower is too tight. Just my thoughts. It's a beauty, BTW.
Cari