[1000mp] main tuning knob seized up, cannot remove ring to access set screw and lubrication points

[Marcia Stockton]

Years ago I received a pre-owned FT1000-mp from an SK pal.  The rig has 
been fantastic.

Just now a problem occurred that I haven't been able to solve via 
manuals and internet research.  During a contest the 
formerly-silky-smooth main VFO tuning knob became stiff, then very very 
stiff, and now it is almost impossible to turn.  The manual describes a 
knob torque adjustment procedure that looks straightforward, but isn't, 
because I cannot do step 1:  removing the outer "knurled rubber ring" 
using your fingers in order to access an Allen-wrench set-screw and/or 
lubrication points.

I cannot remove that outer ring, and am not willing to pry it off with a 
tool until I know what I'm doing.  No amount of normal finger pressure 
will budge it.  I am wondering if possibly my rig has an after-market 
tuning knob which differs from Yaesu's technical specs, or maybe I am 
just doing it wrong... ?

Would really appreciate suggestions from anybody who has dealt with 
tuning knob issues.

Many thanks and

73 de N0RET Marcia

P.S.  For tuning, my fallback is the outer ring, with final fine tuning 
using computer up and down arrows via the N1MM Band Map. Actually this 
works pretty well but it is DIFFERENT and would still like to put the 
hardware back into perfect condition and tune it in the usual way.