I wouldn't mind taking it in so much if it weren't for all of the wasted trips over the past year. I have a lot invested in this machine, and I'm all for taking good care of my investment. Finding out all of these things that should have been caught by the dealer, or that were actually caused by the dealer, is alarming at best. There is a conversation with the area rep in my future.
The tech recommended Mettler Metrosone ( I have no clue how to spell that!) or DMC for piecing, but I've heard good things about Superior Threads too. I told him that I have Madeira, Florani and ARC rayon for embroidery, and he was okay with those. I just would have never suspected that thread could cause that kind of damage.
I'll stick with the good stuff to hopefully avoid another big repair bill. The tech said she is salvageable, and after checking out her innards says she'll last for quite a few years yet before I need to look seriously at upgrading; I'm very thankful for that. I really would love to love this machine :)
Elizabeth, have you resolved the issues with the Elna? I sure hope so!