[Ron Ramirez]

That is very odd that your antenna coil would be, in essence, blocking reception if the continuity of both windings are good. Moisture absorption is the first thing that comes to my mind.

To answer your questions:

1. Once the primary is removed, you will be able to see the direction the turns need to be wound. I don't have my notes next to me, but it's either 200 or 250 turns of 38 gauge wire.

2. You remove the center spool by unsoldering the leads - first making notes on how the leads connect to the coil lug terminals, of course - then, using an instrument such as a socket wrench, gently pushing up on the spool. It is held in place by two tabs on top. One of the tabs may break; if it does, it can be glued back together.

3. Yes, it is most likely the correct coil, as the original antenna coil was made just as shown in your pictures.

4. While it is possible that someone could have substituted an incorrect coil, I sort of doubt it.

5. As I said, it could be moisture absorption. You might try baking the coil in your oven for 30 minutes at 180 degrees. This baking process is usually mandatory for Model 89 and 19 oscillator coils, and would certainly benefit other coils as well. Usually, a lightning hit will completely blacken that winding, and will normally make it go open as well.