RE: Stiff Tx antenna
Here's some FYI, you can take it for what it's worth.
I had a radio with an antenna that was very difficult to extend and collapse. Eventually, the plastic anchor boss in the transmitter case cracked from fatigue. Every time you pull it out, and push it back in, it loads that boss each way, and it's like bending a paper clip back & forth.
When I replaced the antenna with a new unit, I noticed the crack. The new antenna was so easy to exend and retract that I didn't worry about it, but I will never ignore a stiff antenna again. I figure the stiffness was from deformation, rather than any lack of lubrication or internal gumminess.
So my actual recommendation is to replace the antenna with a shiny, slick new one.
Good luck,
Dave Olson