Maybe it's time for a yearly cleaning servicing. The older models are usually very reasonable to service.

Have you ever had it serviced? MAY BE TIME.......depends on cost...according to the Internet the machine has a value of $78......so you may want to invest in abother machine if they charge you alot. The mechanical machines not only need to be oiled, but need machine grease on gears inside. It maybe that your machine is "gunked up" inside due to the flannel and use. You can take a towel, place on a table or counter, turn your machine on it's side. Unscrew the screws on the bottom of the machine. Separate the bottom.you should now be able to see fuzz, lint......clean it out with vaccum and small brush. Gently turn the hand wheel, see and listen for the sound or rubbing of parts.....oil moving parts. If you see grease, don't panic, it is suppose to be there. If you cannot see the problem and it is still making noise, take too a dealer for service. BTW there are some really nice computerized machines for $200 -$400 now.

Try a new needle. My DIL called me in tears because of the same thing. She did everything but changed the needle. It was the needle.

My Bernina 1031, has 16 screws that must be removed before you can get to the guts of the machine!!! Something tells me that Bernina didn't want just anyone getting in there. So when it needs servicing, I take it to my Bernina OSMG(old sewing machine guy/gal).
Sharon in Texas

I had a new machine, but it was my 2nd machine. was still 'in tune' with the old one. when I started using the new machine, after about 3 quilts, it started an awful racket. took it to the dealer, and the motor mounts were lose. that was all.......... you never know. take it to the dealer. unless you have already figured it out.

Why are you reluctant to bring the machine to a reliable sewing machine dealer for service? If you weren't feeling well - after you asked the opinion of all your friends - wouldn't you call a doctor?

I do the same with my Bernina. I get it in pretty regularly for servicing and have had very few other problems with it. I used to take it in once a year, but now it's less since I do a lot of my piecing on the vintage machines which takes a lot of the burden off the Bernina.