[PAradiogeek]

Welcome Roger,

You can definitely remove the coils by removing the screw that holds it to the chassis from underneath. Don't drill out the rivets.

I believe you have your information correct as to the cause of the open coils. I have heard of people using Teflon tape, and even double-sided masking tape. The double-sided tape is nice because it holds the wire down as you are winding the coil.

Not sure about your last question. I'll leave that for someone else.

Good luck!
Jon