Quousque

I just replaced the friction wheel on my elna supermatic with one of the new ones from White Sewing Center (the old one didn't have a flat spot, it was actually broken in half, and looked like someone tried to fix it with hot glue and wire, which held up for about half an hour). The machine runs again, however, it seems like the friction wheel isn't "catching" properly- if I start the machine fast, the motor runs but the machine doesn't. I have to start the machine slowly, and it takes a second or so for the needle to actually start moving. What could be causing the new friction wheel to "slip" like this? (fwiw, the old wheel didn't slip at all, until it cracked in half of course)

Mickey2

I have an aluminium replacement wheel with O-rings. It can slip on the first test stiches, especially if the machine has been unused for some time. The grip is fine after a bit of test sewing at high speeds, it has never been a problem. Common reasons for slipping are oil spills, dust, grime, or hardened rubber surface; you could roughen it with fine sand paper. A new wheel should not need it though. If you have the hand wheel off and just wipe it down with a cloth while it's running could be enough to sort out the problem.

Farmhousesewer

Have you called Ray and asked for his help?