Joe, You must have, (DO) have the patience of a saint. I vote with Ann 31039. Get one from Sew-Classic.com, the solid state variety when your old one goes bad. It was the best money I ever spent, but yes, I do keep the old ones in case some poor soul wants them. Once you get the solid state one, you won't ever want to go back to the old nichrome wire, resistor type. Did you ever notice the wear on the 3 low speed wire assembles? Most of mine were worn nearly in two. DH says it is a wonder some poor lady doesn't catch fire or electrocute herself, but then he's an electrician and they are pretty safety conscious. The last one I took apart had an ounce of just plain dirt in it. Nasty.