I just got back to China after spending several months away. I am in Zhangjiagang this time. I remember in Nanjing that one of the banks accepted American ATM cards and I could make a withdrawal from with Chinese currency. I don't remember which bank that was. Anybody know?

You can use Bank of America cards at China Construction bank with no fees due to their partnership. I've used my Bank of America cards at a couple other banks without issue in a pinch, but there are additional fees.

I found that 80% of ATM machines will allow you to use North American cards. All machines take out money in RMB (if they let you take out money). Most hit you up with a fee of around 5$ for the service (your home bank, not the local machine). So better take take out a larger amount. The currency rate (USD to RMB) should be reflected on your home banks monthly bill.

What i am always afraid of, is that some crusty old machine is going to eat / break / scratch my card. Not so easy to replace when you are here

PS, I have to replace my card very soon with a "new" one. My bank is going to cut off my old one soon. They sent me a message that the new one has "new" security features. Sigh.