mmack66, I have tried doing that several times and it doesn't help. I've tried just sliding it half way down to sliding it down all the way and then tightening that screw. I have the old belt and it has so many cracks in it (it also broke when I removed it). The machine did work when I had the old belt on, so I am thinking it is not the correct size. The old belt appears to be larger around than the new one I bought.I don't know if it is because of the age of this old belt or not. When I tried to wind a bobbin, I had to press down on the metal thing that rests on the bobbin while it is threading (don't know what it is called). My husband said his mother hadn't used the machine in over 25 years, so I know it needs a good oiling/cleaning. I have been sewing for over 40 years, but I have never used one of these older vintage machines. The machine only sews a straight stitch, no zigzag stitch, so I can't make button holes with it :( Anyway, I have looked in Walmart and in one local sewing machine/fabric store and this Dritz 903 motor and bobbin belt was the only one either store carried.

See if you can find a model # on it then Google New Home sewing machine and the model #. Sorry i can't tell you any more than that. Kathi

"That's where my thread gets tight! Really tight! I have sat with it for hrs trying to figure out why but it still is too tight ." Try rotating the wheel to raise or lower the needle slightly as you pull gently on the thread. At a certain point in the cycle the tension clamps down on the thread. http://www.singerco.com/support/machine-serial-numbers will tell her when the machine was made, based on the serial number.

I'm familiar with the Husqvarna Viking line which should be accommodate much of your wishes. The latest issue of the HV Epic or its sister Pfaff machine (don't know the model name) both have larger throats, but they won't be taller. They're large and aren't the kind you put away each time you use it. Also,be prepared for sticker shock. Best idea is to visit local major sewing machine brand dealers to test drive machines and sometimes they have good promotions or decent prices on 2nd hand machines. I would stay out of Walmart if you want a sturdy, dependable machine.