Originally Posted by
quiltedsunshine
I have seen a few Berninas at the shop that have just been worn out -- maybe 4 in the past 6 years. Not very many, but it does happen. The lint build-up in the gears and rack will wear a machine out. Usually happens when a machine is used hard, and hasn't come in for regular service or deep clean, in a period of several years.
I think one of the few nylon gears in the old Berninas, is the one on top near the camstack, it can be replaced by a competent technician. My daughter's old 730 needed that top gear replaced, no other problems with it. Her current machine is a 1985 Bernina 930, she sews everything with it; lots of costumes and other items.
You might not be happy with a new Bernina, too much plastic, get a second opinion. I have a Bernina 1031 that I bought new in 1993, still sewing with it. I've bought 2 new Berninas, they got sold after a few years.
My newest machine is a Pfaff Quilter Expression 4.2, ten inch throat,built in walking foot, does everything except embroidery. I machine quilt and also make garments and bags.
Sharon in Texas