I have had a 7700 for at least 6 years. I haven't had any similar problems, sorry, so I'm not sure if I can help. I will say that right out of the box, my quilting looked pretty good without changing anything (but my quilting level is intermediate, at best). I have had the best results using a poly thread (Isacord, Glide, etc.) in the top thread and Bottom Line or So Fine in the bobbin. Adjusting the foot height, especially if I had bulky seems, made a difference. I use Organ needles, because I believe they also manufacture the Janome needles, and I get good results with them. The best thing I did was to use the insulation foam to build up the area around my machine. I used duct tape to edge the foam, and covered it with vinyl from Walmart. I did buy the blue dot bobbin case, which I have never felt the need to use, so that was a waste of money for me. Good luck with your machine. I absolutely love mine.