I'm not saying this would work, I'm just saying that it's the first thing I'd try in this situation.

I certainly would, depending on the circumstances (i.e. whether or not the player was abused).

By the way, to respond to Tony's other point, this is easy to repair. Hugo posted the data sheet for the Panasonic rotary control to Riovolution - I believe they cost a few dollars. Seems like an opportunity for someone with basic SMT experience.

Rob