I do not have this machine, however, mine is identical by another manufacturer. The darning foot should pop off. It is held in place with 2 small pins. The only alterations I can think of is if they drilled 2 holes in the plate and they laid it on top of the regular sewing plate. Does that make sense? Without a photo it sounds like the plates are stacked one on top of another. Either way if you have to buy replacement plates it can be done.