[morzh]

well, typically resistors don't short out if simply degrading over time.

Actually, unless a resistor chars, it does not short out ever.

In my case it is full open, the meter does not detect even a small leakage. So I actually can safely disregard this piece of ceramic in there.

Then, if my plan does not work, I will have to resort to violence and use that blunt tool to knock out the panel.

But hopefully it will work. Will try it tonight and let you know. Way less painful if it works.