I think you have to realize that the machine while made well originally is very old. My husband and I do vintage cars. My 66 Mustang is the best most reliable car either of us have ever owned but it still needs maintenance and repair. Nothing last forever and unless you've owned something since it was first sold, you don't know how it was treated in the past.
I have a beautiful Rocketeer that my husband bought me. The center of the hand wheel won't loosen so I can wind the bobbin. I just wind it on my 301 for now and next spring I'll take it in and have them look at it and tune it up. I consider regular trips to the sewing machine guy a part of owning machines. They have to be kept in good condition to give good service. Just like cars.
Last edited by cashs_mom; 11-20-2016 at 09:27 AM.