Hi all and back on track Terry. I did some Google research on needle removal and surprisingly most of the advice was exactly as I do it. Grasp the needle with thumb and forefinger and gently twist. It was suggested that the needle be first rotated to its maximum speed stop but I overcome this by grasping the shaft with pointed nose pliers. To re-install simply place the needle on the shaft in its correct position and gently tap into place. Here again I use the pliers to minimise the concussion through the shaft drive train.
Bob