My first comouterized sewing machine was an elna 9000, I bought in 1990. That machine had the most beautiful stitches. I sold it a few years later for a Bernina Artista 180 and always regretted not keeping that elna. Perhaps you could save it for a family member, or for a time when you can afford to repair it? I'm sure it would fetch a nice price on ebay if you decide to sell. It really is a sweet machine