I tried the pool noodle but still couldn't reach the knee lift comfortably. I took 2 big blocks of styrofoam and duct taped them to my lift and it works perfect!

Janome has a newer lift than what came with the first 7700's. It has more bend to it and I replaced mine with the new one and it is just perfect for me now. I am 5' 3". I love the lift and couldn't imagine not using it. The new lift cost me 45.00.

Great! I think I might try the Styrofoam. The noodle, I'm afraid, wouldn't give me enough room. It would still be way too short. I'm afraid to try bending the rod! I also might contact Janome to see if the new knee lift would fit my machine. Thank you, all, for your responses!

You should probably consult a dealer on the adjustment. I have a 6300 and the knee lift is fine. I am 5'1" and a smidge. In fact I have to watch I do not hit the thing when I don't want to! :) I love the knee lift!

Maybe the difference is whether your machine sits in or on a table.
Mine is in the table and the knee lift works just fine.

Mine sits in the table.

Sorry to ask but what is a pool noodle.

A pool noodle is just like a fat piece of spaghetti about 3-4 foot long and about 3-4 inches across.
They are used in the swimming pool. They will keep you buoyant.

I suggest you get in touch with janome and inform them of what appears to be a big problem with some of their machines. I use the knee lift some times but find it gets in my way other times. I assume it is my sittings position.
Would anyone piece of polystyrene would fit on the end.

What model do you have? I emailed Janome just recently about this feature and they told me none of their machines had it and they had no plans to introduce it :shock:.
This feature was at the top of my 'want' list when I bought a new machine which is why I went for the Pfaff QE4 instead.