Hi Peter
Yes, that is impressive. I found this one: https://youtu.be/1VZAkDVPj_w
which shows a direct connection into a PL-330 having disconnected the internal ferrite rod. I tried this and was definitely able to tune a better signal, so maybe the two photos I posted earlier don’t show damage? I have to admit that I’d be a lot more confident about the whole affair if those ‘broken’ areas weren’t there! I’m toying withe idea of requesting a replacement. 

Drifter