I found a guy who sells replacement cap kits for the sw500.
only about 20 bucks including the big 4 in 1 PS cap.
I also managed to align everything as best I could without a signal 
generator.
WWV was my friend today...though comparing between the sw500 and my HF rig, 
using the same antenna, the sw500 definitely has some issues with the 
receiver.
Likely a new set of caps will bring her back to life...and possibly a new 
detecter tube as well.
contact cleaner and 3 in 1 oil also made a big difference with the crackly 
knobs and the feel of the VFO, band spread and volume/BFO controls.

73
Colin, V A6BKX