Hi all, I just bought my second 319. In Australia we got the 319K (made in the U.K.) which is, as far as I know, identical except for the (240V) motor.
My first one (haven't used the new one yet) is very quiet. I have had about a dozen sewing machines and this is probably the nicest all round machine yet.
I did read the entire thread last night (17 pages so far!!) and bookmarked it. Miriam, you've inspired me to do a full pull-down: I'll be using your lovely pictures as a guide and perhaps will take a few myself.
The special needles were quite easy and cheap to obtain, even here. I would never modify the timing (was lucky that the machine was a one-owner). My dad says "engineers aren't stupid", and this machine was engineered to take the special needles. I bought 3 10-packs (one pack for each size) for just $18. I then marked the packs with the machine it's for (I have a few machines).
Anyway, thanks again. I'll post any relevant photos of the restoration.
Mike