So I took a look and looked at the amplifier and saw the capacitors... and then realized I had no idea how to check if a capacitor was "leaky" or if it needed replacement or what the entire statement about x and y and line meant at all. I have little knowledge of electronics but am quick to learn. If you know of any sites, tutorials, books that will point me in the right direction let me know. Likewise, if I'm in over my head let me know too (in which case what do I do? call a radio repair guy?

Also, yes the idle wheel is hard... I discovered this as I went to clean it and let it slip off the edge of the radio while I was doing something and watched chunks break off. At this point can a rebuild work? Should I buy a whole new wheel? Should I just buy a micromatic turntable off ebay and call it a day?

Thanks in advance for all the help.