It's a mechanical so when I'm sewing, if the needle stops out of the fabric I have to put the needle down. I spoke with someone at the repair shop, she said it's either nothing, a belt rubbing or wearing out, or something needs relubing. To cover herself (which I understand) she recommended not sewing with it till she can hear it in person, so I've gotten out my backup machine
so glad I didn't give it away like my first instinct...