I have a 820 and don't quite understand what you are asking. "slotted end of white pokey stick"

I haven't had any issue with my bobbin but I use a lighted dental mirror (bought from the local pharmacy store) to double check that I've threaded it properly.

There is a trick to getting it into the "embroidery" slot which may be what you mean when you use the "SEOWPS".

ARRG
I have just picked up my machine again from my dealer because the tension was way off. There was no charge as usual. However she told me that her tech whom I really like had told her that the 2 of us (my dealer) & me still are not threading the bobbin properly. We must now start using the slotted end of the white poky stick that comes with the machine. I can feel the thread engaging when I thread it but it does pop out of the square tension box I have noticed when I free motion quilt my heavy pieces. Already my machine does not pick up the top thread unless I engage the bobbin first (does anyone else have a machine that has this quirk?)

I have had my machine for more than 2 years & love it but I must say there are some days my trusty 430 is a much better friend.

I am looking forward to any positive tips that you can give me.