Hi again,
I'd pretty much finished restoring my FT-301 analog rig, but have noticed that the dial has three spots in every revolution where it catches just a bit. Right around 14, 47 and 80 kHz positions (if I'm turning the dial slowly) it'll feel like the mechanism has just fallen into a little hole. Moving it beyond takes just a bit more pressure. If I want to (for example) dial in 14.212 (just below or above one of these spots) the mechanism will pull over to .214. Other than this, the mechanism is very smooth, no grinding or roughness at all.
This doesn't really sound like a congealed-grease problem to me, rather perhaps an issue with a mis-aligned or damaged gear. I'm considering removing the gear mechanism from the radio, but it seems rather complicated to get it all out. i haven't seen anyone's comments on how best to do this, despite quite a bit of searching. For example, do I need to completely remove the front panel ? From a look inside it does seem to be necessary, but if there are any shortcuts I'd really appreciate hearing about it before I tear the radio completely apart!
Joel, VE6EI
Joel Weder, VE6EI