The needle wont move up and down. everything else is fine as far as i can tell

Assuming this is the older mechanical Bernina 730 Record (not the new computerized model)...Sounds like your machine is seized due to dried oil.

Wheel on right side that controls the needle up and down is very tight...

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Hm, could be several things. If stitches are not being formed, it could be a timing issue (the needle does not arrive at the bobbin at the correct time). Did the machine recently hit a pin or something hard? That will knock a machine out of time. There could also be a broken piece stuck that is preventing the feed dogs from operating. Thoroughly clean the machine around the bobbin area and feed dogs.

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is it possible that you didn't get the needle inserted all the way into
the needle holder?
is it possible that the needle is not turned the right way in the
needle holder?

since the machine has been setting for 20 years, it needs to be serviced
the old grease & oil have probably turned the gunk. the servicing can also tell if any parts are damaged

Refer to your manual to be sure you have the needle in correctly.

Hi. Hm.........it might be that you have the flat side of the needle facing the wrong way. Check your instruction book to be sure. Another thing to check would be that the screw is going in straight. If it's slanting up or down, the screw might be getting stuck before it gets to the needle.

There have been times when I've gone back to the instruction book and ********** the parts again, just to make sure I was turning the right screw. (It happens!)

Another possibility I've run into is that the needle slips down while I'm tightening the screw. So (this might sound weird), I put the needle in as far as it will go, then use my index finger under the point of the needle to hold it in place. (yeah, ouch!)

Hope this helps!

ok it sounds like either the gear on the rotoary hook is bad "lot of money to fix" or there is a small pin that moves the feed dogs make sure it is setted correctly. also make sure the pressure foot is down all the way.

Hi Nikki,

The problem seems to be of the needles alignment. If you are using a half bobbin type (D type) needle, makes sure you have used the proper number & size and also fastened it well so that the flat side is firmly fixed/clasping the inner side of the needle hold. That black thing which I feel is the fly-nut that helps you tighten/clamp the needle to its hold. Then after having done that, slowly turn the wheel manually to see whether the needle is going in thru the hole in a straight line and if you can, look underneath to se if the knotter ring (the one that looks like having fangs) comes close as the neele advances inward. All these movements HAVE TO BE syncronised. Only then you will be able to stitch the fines of fabrics speedily. Also make sure oyu are not tugging on the front end of the fabric too hard as this may cause the needle to go in a diagonal manner thus causing it to snap. Take care as to NOT to be too close to the needle while at high speeds. The snapping pieces can fly right into your eyes/nose causing serious injury.

Hope that does it Nikki...

machine was working fine when suddenly it just jammed up. Everything seems to be fine, but the balance wheel is completely jammed rigid. I've looked at the shuttle and there are no thread jams at all. The needle moves fine from side to side with different stitch selections, but wont go up and down with the wheel.
I have tried looking in the machine, but I can't find any thread jammed.