[Elecraft] K2 Main dial problem

[df5rf]

JFYI: Main dial in working condition again.
The axis of the encoder has been moved out of line, about 0.3 mm only.
The inner diameter of the axis is not as thick as the outer (visible) 
part of it.
The encoder appears to be quite powerful, but because of the thinner inner
axis any, even slight, mechanical shock coming sideways will bend the
axis. It happend to mine. I figured it out be first carefully listening 
while
turning the dial. I could here it scratching faintly. To visually prove 
the damage, I held
it against a neon light bulb. Once I recognized the angle of the bend, 
it was
easy to put it back using a nose plier.
Now that I know of the fragile construction of the encoder I'm looking
for a replacement, because I'm using my K2 portable and that was one of
the top reasons to buy the kit. If anybody knows of an alternative 
please let me know.
I've already colleced some ideas:
- replace with up/down buttons
- use a step motor which probably has a more rugged design
  ( there is an article in German FUNKAMATEUR issue Sept. 2002 
explaining how to
    use a step motor as a replacement for an optical encoder..)
- find another optical encoder with thicker axis

Any more ideas?
73
Gernot
DF5RF