Thanks for the reply. The chirping was actually at a fairly quick speed. It's just weird. Why would it loosen when held upside down? That's not happening this time though. It's just plain stiff. When I turn it by hand it starts stiff then loops around looser. I don't get it. I'm usually fairly handy so this just has me stumped. Thanks for any help you can give me. I absolutely love this old machine. It's the best machine EVER. My mom gave it to me. I've tried several other machines but always return to this one. Robyn