I have had a 401A since 1965 and it has only been in the shop for a cleaning and found lint behind the thread adjustment on the face of the machine was the only problem! Just oil and blow out regularly and this machine will do anything you want it to do. Have all the cams and have never changed even once. may try it sometime just to see what they all do! I have gone from custom garments, leather and blue jeans to quilts and must say I have enjoyed them all.