maybe the thread has wrapped around the takeup drive stud/bearing remove the machine cover at the needle /takeup end of the machine and look at the drive movement for the takeup assembly it may have a screw/stud you can remove similar to industrial machines if it has thread around it remove screw and the thread should be easy to remove if it is a sealed drive movment the only way i have removed this sort of problem is to use a thin piece of metal heated and slowly remove it this way but be very careful not to cause injury to yourself do not try to operate the machine until you have cleared the thread as this will burn the motor you say that you have bent the takeup lever if the machine can run without it catching leave it because smetimes they are made of alloy and it is liable to snap if you try to straighten them to heavily i hope this info helps you
pete g
April 2013