My machine has lots of 'auto' settings which, in general, I'm not a fan. However, on my sewing machine I love them! The book said to use the 'heavy woven' setting for quilting which auto sets the tension and sets the stitch length to 3. From those two perspectives it's been perfect.
Like heron, I think my biggest issue is probably technique at this point as well. I, too, have been sewing (garment/home dec) for decades and quilting for about 15 years. But up until now have been a hand quilter. I have about a half dozen quilts that I just need to have done. They are for no one in particular; utilitarian in nature so they are my 'practice' pieces at this point. I do have one other quilt, however, that is 'special' that also needs to be done sooner rather than later. If I can get a couple/few of these utilitarian quilts done and feel reasonably good about my machine quilting skills at that point, I'll put the 'special' one next on the list after those.
Will be calling my dealer when they open this AM to see if they have the walking foot in stock. If I can pick up locally somewhere that would be my preference. This way I can have them show me the proper installation techniques since many have said that can be an issue plus I can have it now!