I have already tested the power connections and they appear to be solid. I will be replacing the power switch just in case. I use that receiver because it came with my 10C and couldn't afford another Rx so I guess its a little overkill but I can't afford any equipment right now. As you said, I've been experimenting in ways in which the antennae can remain completely extended but the space in that plane is tight. The manual specifies that the important part is the silver tip but it does advice not to turn the rest of the cable in small radii which I might be doing with this setup. Other user at the radio forum has suggested that I place one of the antennae upright in terms of the plane's orientation so I'll be trying to get that done too.