[R-390] How to free stuck IF slugs?

[James Cottle]

OK, so I finally got around to doing an IF alignment on my R-390A. On 
the first fixed IF transformer, the primary slug (bottom) moves so that 
I can peak the diode load at 455Khz. The top slug, however, is stuck to 
where an unsafe amount of torque will still not allow me to turn it in 
the coil form. What does one do to free these ferrite slugs in the coil 
form? I know that turning it with force is definitely NOT the answer, 
for that has been known to crack the coil form. I am left with the 
question: Does anyone have a tip in how to free these slugs? I know they 
are normally tight, but should not be immovable. I had the same problem 
with the single slug form T208. All I want to do is peak T203 and T208 I 
think these are the numbers...not messing with the staggered IF 
transformers) Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance

Jim
AC4EA
San Francisco