Interesting thread. I just took my 1970's Kenmore to my local Janome dealer and sewing machine repair shop because it had suddenly lost all upper tension and nothing I did would fix it. I'd been expecting to leave the machine, but the guy immediately opened it up and repaired it on the spot. No charge. Three years ago I took it to the same dealer for general servicing after 25 years of no servicing at all. Charge was $49, with a 6-month guarantee. From what I've read here, I'd better hope this guy stays in business forever.