this is the needle that I had used a long time ago to actually sew with it. I did change the needle, and it behaved the same way. Needle is in correctly . . .

Cathy, the bend in the needle is from me pulling the hand wheel. It goes straight in, but as you turn the wheel something hits it and makes that bend. I should have pulled the bobbin parts out! =))

I will investigate the timing, Joe. LOVE your instructions -- clear, easy to follow and understand.