You can take the top of the machine off, usually a couple of screws. All machines I have seen with top winding bobbins you can take the top off. It's the only way to fix the bobbin winder when it breaks. You can't hurt the machine by taking the top off, it's easy. Usually there are a couple of screws holding it. Do not take the wheel apart, that is where the clutch is and it's like opening a can of worms. Other than that the machine can be disassembled easy.