Crank, you should have seen this long thread, http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_78..._1/key_/tm.htm . If it didn't ratchet before, it should not ratchet now. I just checked my X9303 after complying with the "JR" approved method of rerouting the wires. The aileron/elevator stick is smooth. No ratcheting. I would take the transmitter apart and recheck how the wires are lying. As you will see in the bulletin, there is no metion of silcone. Although some others did use shoe goo. Someone posted that the caustic qualities of silcone might eat into the insulation. Also, you will see in the thread above where a number of people moved the spiral wire hold down to the gimbal. I think if you remove the back of the transmitter, recheck your wire location, then you should solve your problem.

PS: I think with a little checking, you will not have to return the transmitter.