To answer your question about whether the machine may need a tune-up...Yes, it could need some adjusting and small parts do wear out and need replacing....BUT as far as them 'getting old' ... not sure on that point. These are industrial quilting machines that are meant to work for YEARS! 5? 10? 15? 20? 25? Who knows?
I agree with everyone who mentioned that the LA quilters themselves have good and bad days; LA quilting is hard on the body; and LA quilters, unfortunately, don't have replaceable parts!
I'm wondering what you mean by 'has not been the same quality'.
Is it the stitch quality? Thread type or thread colors? Quilting design choices? ?????
How have things changed?
Besides possible issues with the machine or the longarm quilter personally, there are other variables that affect stitch quality. The type and quality of batting chosen along with the type and quality of fabric used to make the top and back also affect the quality of the quilting stitches.
Have you mentioned any of your concerns to her? She may have more information than any of us can provide.
Nan