[Heathkit] Heathkit SB-401 LMO Question

[Jeffrey L. Bauman]

Hello, trusted advisors!

The LMO in my SB-401 does not cover 5.0 to 5.5 mHz.  Rather, I measure the
output at (approximately) 7.512 to 9.687 mHz.  I say approximately because I
have yet to repair a frozen "tab" that prevents me from tuning to the "0.0"
end of the band, and the output drops to near nothing at the top end.  Thus,
I have extrapolated from "1" and "4" dial marks.

Same results with a different tube.

Since it now tunes about four times the spectrum it's supposed to, I don't
believe it to be an "adjustment" problem.  My guess is capacitor has failed.

Has anyone faced this before?  And, is there any secret to securing easy
access to the components for testing / replacement?  I've removed the LMO
from the transmitter and removed the side panel NOT connected to the
variable capacitor, but it looks like I will have to further dissassemble
the unit for any meaningful servicing.

Conversely, for the sake of saving time and energy, does anyone have an
extra working LMO lying around for sale?  Perhaps a junker radio?

Jeff
W8KZWatAmericanRadioRelayLeague.net (punctuate properly)