This is an old thread, but i wanted to mention this:
http://www.google.com/m/url?client=s...e=UTF-8&q=http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-142730-1.htm&te=8&ved=0CBoQFjAA&usg=AFQjCNEF2wmJe4Zp6YEF8gDD6SYN0MfuuQ
See the spool of coats and clarks thread, upright, in my photo? I broke needle after needle (more than 50... A real horror show) before i figure out that the c and c thread spool is too darn heavy for my machine to spin or turn. I attached a thread support wire, about 12", high to my machine, and that problem was fixed. I am not sure what the proper name for that support device is, but look above the 4 cones of thread on a serger, and you will find four of them.
Also- there is a huge benefit to single stitch only machines for FMQ. i am saving my pennies and looking for a vintage singer with a huge throat.